How to Get a Driver’s License in Panama (2026 Guide + Assistance Available)
Many foreigners relocating to Panama eventually need to obtain a local driver’s license. While visitors can drive with a foreign license for a limited time, residents are generally required to obtain a Panama driver’s license after establishing legal residency.
The process is straightforward if you know the requirements and prepare the correct documents in advance.
This guide explains how to get a driver’s license in Panama in 2026, including eligibility, documents required, costs, and the step by step process.
Who Can Get a Driver’s License in Panama?
A Panama driver’s license is typically issued to:
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Panama citizens
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Foreigners with legal residency
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Residents holding a valid foreign driver’s license
Tourists may drive temporarily using their foreign license, but once you become a resident, you are expected to obtain a Panamanian license within 90 days.
Most foreigners obtain their license after receiving residency through programs such as:
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Friendly Nations Visa
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Investment Residency
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Pensionado Visa
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Professional Visa
Can You Drive in Panama With a Foreign Driver’s License?
Visitors to Panama are generally allowed to drive using a valid driver’s license from their home country for a limited period of time.
Most tourists and short term visitors can legally drive in Panama for up to 90 days after entering the country, as long as they carry:
A valid foreign driver’s license
Their passport showing the entry stamp
A rental agreement if driving a rental vehicle
After becoming a legal resident, foreigners are typically expected to obtain a Panamanian driver’s license through SERTRACEN, the country’s official licensing authority.
For this reason, many new residents apply for their Panama driver’s license shortly after receiving their residency card.
Obtaining a local license can also make it easier to:
Purchase or register a vehicle
Obtain car insurance
Avoid issues during traffic stops
If you are planning to relocate to Panama, it is often best to prepare your residency and driver’s license process together so everything can be completed efficiently once you arrive.
Many foreigners begin this process after obtaining residency through programs such as the Panama Friendly Nations Visa or other immigration pathways. Preparing your residency and driver’s license process together can make settling in Panama much easier.
Panama Drivers License Application Process
The application is fast and easy. We are with you every step of the way.
01.
Certify your home country Driver’s License & Affidavit
Divers license certification and affidavit can be obtained from your countries embassy in Panama by making an appointment. Follow the link to find your embassy.
02.
Authenticate the Certification & Affidavit
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs office will authenticate the affidavit you received from your country’s embassy and the copy of your foreign driver’s license. Follow the link for the address.
03.
Obtain your Blood Type
If your home country drivers license does not state your blood type, you will need to do a blood type test and obtain a health certificate attesting to your blood type.
04.
Book Appointment at SERTACEN
When you have the following documents, you can book your appointment to get your drivers license here: https://www.licencia.com.pa/entry/
05.
Present your Documents
Make sure you bring your documents on the day of your appointment with SERTACEN.
06.
Take Vision and Hearing Test
You will need to take a vision test and a hearing test on the day of your appointment.
07.
Pay Fee
Once you pass your vision and hearing test you pay the fee of $40 USD.
08.
Obtain your Driver's License
Then you wait a few minutes and get your driver's license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find your Embassy in Panama to Certify your Driver's License and the Affidavit
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to Authenticate the Certification & Affidavit
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs office is located at San Felipe, Calle 3, Palacio Bolívar.
Tel: 511-4100
Where to Obtain a Blood Type Certificate
Law #146 as of April 15, 2020 states that any clinical laboratory that has a current
opening and operation permit by the public health technical council is authorized to issue
a laboratory result for applications for driver’s license procedures.
Driver's Licenese Documents needed at Sertacen
You must bring the following documents with you when you visit t SERTACEN to get your Panama driver’s license:
• Original and a copy of your passport
• Original and a copy of your home country drivers license
• Original and a copy of your Panama temporary/permanent resident card or cedula
• Certificate with your blood type
• Notarized affidavit from the Embassy
• Authenticated MFA documents
Over 70 Years Old
If you are 70 or above you must submit a certificate of good physical and mental health in order to get your drivers license. This certificate serves as proof that the license holder is fit to operate a vehicle safely.
How often do you have to renew the driver's license?
A Panama drivers license is issued for 4 years.
If you are 70+ then the driver’s license is issued for 2 years.
Do I need a Panama driver’s license if I have residency?
Yes. Residents must obtain a Panamanian license after the initial 90 day period.
If you are 70+ have a look at our latest article on changes SERTRACEN has made.
Assistance With Your Panama Driver’s License
If you are new to Panama, navigating the driver’s license process can sometimes be confusing, especially when preparing the correct documents and visiting the appropriate offices.
Our team can assist you with preparing your driver’s license application, obtaining the required medical and blood type certificates, and accompanying you to the licensing office at SERTRACEN to ensure the process goes smoothly.
This service is popular with new residents who want to avoid delays, language barriers, or multiple visits to complete the application.
We can assist with:
Preparing all required driver’s license documentation
Coordinating medical and blood type certificates
Scheduling your licensing appointment
Accompanying you to the SERTRACEN office
Translating and guiding you through the process
Many of our clients choose to complete their driver’s license shortly after obtaining residency in Panama, and we can help coordinate the process as part of your relocation setup.
If you would like assistance with preparing your documents or attending your driver’s license appointment, contact our team to schedule driver’s license assistance in Panama.