Driving a vehicle in Argentina.

Many foreigners are concerned about the regulations for driving a vehicle in Argentina. Do you need an International Driver’s license and what exactly is required? If you are planning to travel to Argentina and rent a vehicle then you will be able to drive on a valid driver’s license that was issued in your country. You don’t need an International Driver’s license but it helps.

Argentina is one of those countries where it all depends on the day, the person that stops you and if Argentina is playing football or not. You might be stopped by a traffic official in Buenos Aires who insists that you present your International Driver’s license. From experience I have learnt that it is normally not the case. Most of the time they don´t know what to do when presented with a foreign license!

If you are not convinced and don’t want to take any chances then it is better to apply for an International Driver’s license in your country before you travel.

Regulations for driving a vehicle in Argentina – 3rd party.

If you are planning to drive the vehicle of a friend or family member then it gets tricky. In Argentina the owner of the vehicle is issued with a Cedula Verde ( The car´s registration card). This means that the owner of the car, has permission, to drive the vehicle. Each person driving the car needs special permission from the owner and his/her own card. When you are stopped by a traffic official they will be asking you to present this document as well as the insurance document. Failing to do so can result in you having to abandon the vehicle and phoning the owner to claim it.

How to prevent issues when driving the vehicle of a 3rd party.

• If possible make sure the owner of the car is with you.

• Have an affidavit from the owner that he gave permission for you to drive the vehicle. This can be done at the office of an Escribano.

• If you are renting a car make sure you have all the relevant papers and documents that were issued to you.

Driving with a tourist visa in Argentina.

If you have a tourist visa in Argentina (valid for 90 days) and you are planning on driving then all of the above will apply. However, if you have permanent residency in Argentina and are driving with your valid driver’s license from your own country then you might end up with problems. If you have a DNI (Argentine National Document) then they basically force you to get an Argentine Driver´s license and you might be in for a fine if they stop you.

Also keep in mind that if you have an accident and need to claim from the Road Accident Fund (La Caja) they might refuse to pay, claiming your driver’s license is not valid in Argentina. If you are living permanently in Argentina, have a DNI and are driving on a regular basis, then I suggest you taking the test.

Important tips for driving in Argentina.

Always remember to drive with your lights on when on the main roads and to wear your safety belt. They issue hefty fines and traffic police are everywhere. Afterall it is for your own safety.