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Driver's License in Colombia 2026 — IDP, Colombian License, CRC Exam, and RUNT

If you plan to drive in Colombia, you need either an International Driving Permit (valid for 6 months) or a Colombian driver's license. Most expats start with the IDP and convert to a Colombian license once they are settled and have their cedula.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

The IDP is recognized in Colombia for up to 6 months. It translates your home license into Spanish and other languages, which is what Colombian police need to see during a traffic stop. Your US or European license alone is technically not valid without the IDP, though enforcement varies by city.

  • Where to get it: AAA offices (US), CAA (Canada), Post Office (UK). Online applications are available.
  • Cost: $20 USD (AAA)
  • Validity: 1 year from issue, but Colombian law recognizes it for up to 6 months of residency
  • Carry both: You must have the IDP and your original license when driving

Getting a Colombian Driver's License

After 6 months in Colombia, you should convert to a Colombian license. The process is straightforward but involves several steps and offices.

CRC Medical Exam

The CRC (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores) medical exam is required for all license applicants, including foreigners converting a foreign license. The exam evaluates:

  • Vision: Basic eye exam, color blindness test
  • Hearing: Audiometry test
  • Physical coordination: Basic motor skills assessment
  • Psychological evaluation: Brief interview and reaction time test

The exam takes 1-2 hours at a CRC-certified center. These centers are private clinics authorized by the Ministry of Transport. Search "CRC conductor" in your city to find the nearest one. No appointment needed at most locations — walk in during business hours.

RUNT Registration

RUNT (Registro Unico Nacional de Transito) is Colombia's national transit registry. All drivers, vehicles, and traffic infractions are tracked in this system. You need RUNT registration as part of the license process.

The CRC center or the transit office (Secretaria de Movilidad) will handle your RUNT registration as part of the license application. You do not need to visit RUNT separately.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Gather documents: Cedula de extranjeria, passport, current valid foreign license, IDP (if applicable), 2 passport photos
  2. Visit a CRC center: Complete the medical exam. Cost: 150,000-250,000 COP ($42-$69 USD). The center issues a certificate valid for the license application.
  3. Apostilled license translation: Your foreign license may need an official Spanish translation and apostille. Some transit offices accept the IDP as sufficient translation. Check with your local Secretaria de Movilidad before paying for a translation.
  4. Visit Secretaria de Movilidad: Bring all documents to the transit office in your city. They process the application, enter your data into RUNT, and issue the license.
  5. Pay the fee: License issuance costs approximately 200,000-300,000 COP ($56-$83 USD)
  6. Receive your license: The physical card is either issued on the spot or mailed within a few business days

Total Costs

  • IDP (before leaving home): $20 USD
  • CRC medical exam: 150,000-250,000 COP ($42-$69 USD)
  • License translation/apostille: 100,000-200,000 COP ($28-$56 USD) if required
  • License issuance fee: 200,000-300,000 COP ($56-$83 USD)
  • Total: Approximately 500,000-800,000 COP ($139-$222 USD) for everything

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Colombia with my US license?
A US license alone is technically not valid for driving in Colombia, but enforcement is inconsistent. An International Driving Permit (IDP) paired with your US license is valid for up to 6 months. After 6 months, you should have a Colombian license. Get the IDP from AAA before you leave the US — it costs $20 and takes 15 minutes.
Do I need to take a driving test?
If you already have a valid foreign license and are converting it, you typically do not need a practical driving test. The CRC medical exam and a basic theory review are the main requirements. However, some transit offices may require a brief practical test at their discretion.
How long does the process take?
The CRC exam takes 1-2 hours. The RUNT registration and license issuance takes another 1-2 days of processing. Total time from start to having the physical card in hand is typically 3-5 business days, assuming you have all documents ready.
Can I buy a car without a Colombian license?
Yes. Buying a car requires a cedula de extranjeria and the financial means to purchase, but not a Colombian driver's license. However, you cannot legally drive the car without a valid license (either IDP or Colombian). Buy the license before or shortly after buying the car.
Is an international driving permit the same as an international license?
Yes. The IDP (International Driving Permit) is often called an international license. It is a standardized document that translates your home license into multiple languages. It is only valid alongside your original license — you must carry both. Get it from AAA (US) or CAA (Canada) before traveling.