🚗 Immigration & residency · data checked on 28 Oct 2026

Driving licence in Panama for foreigners

Driving matters in many parts of the city. The rule depends on whether you are a tourist or a resident.

First, residency: Trámites Visa Panamá → Free consultation

Who is it for?

Tourists renting a car and residents who need a Panamanian licence.

Key facts · data checked on 28 Oct 2026

Tourist

Valid home licence for up to 90 days; cannot obtain a Panamanian licence

Resident

Panamanian licence at SERTRACEN with a valid immigration card and passport

With a foreign licence

Conversion with a licence certification (embassy/consulate, apostille or endorsement); only once, for your first licence

Validation fee

B/.40 cash (certified foreign licence route, per Panamá Digital); other costs: ask

General requirements

• Without a foreign licence: theory and practical course at an ATTT-authorised school, blood type from an authorised lab and tests at SERTRACEN.
• International driving permits (the booklet) and learner permits are not converted.
• Have no outstanding fines with the ATTT.

Next step

Free consultation with Trámites Visa Panamá

This form belongs to tramitesvisapanama.com: your request goes straight to their team, who will contact you by WhatsApp or email with a verified specialist.

Can't see the form? Open it on tramitesvisapanama.com →

FAQ

Can I drive in Panama with my foreign licence?

Yes, as a tourist, for up to 90 days. Once you become a resident you must get a Panamanian licence.

How do I convert my licence?

Certify your valid licence (at your embassy or consulate, by apostille or consular endorsement) and present it at SERTRACEN with your immigration card. It can only be done once.

Official sources (data checked on 28 Oct 2026): Panamá Digital – Requisitos extranjeros (ATTT, arts. 110–111) · SERTRACEN – Homologación de licencia · SERTRACEN – Licencia primera vez

General information, not legal advice. Rules and fees change: confirm them with the National Immigration Service or a lawyer before deciding. Where it says "ask", the authority does not publish that information and we do not make it up. TuHogar en Panamá is not a law firm or an immigration agency.