Panama Driver’s License at 70 and Over
What you need, what changes after 70, and how to renew without a wasted trip. Checked against SERTRACEN, Panama’s licensing office.
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The Short Version
Driving in Panama After 70: Quick Answers
The rules are simple once you know them. These are the points that matter most.
2 year license
After 70 your license is issued for 2 years instead of up to 4.
Medical certificate
A certificate of good physical and mental health from an internal medicine or geriatrics specialist.
Valid 6 months
The certificate must be no more than 6 months old when you submit it.
Renew online
Most renewals can be done at licencia.com.pa, with delivery or in person.
No appointment needed
Seniors and retirees can go in person to SERTRACEN without an appointment.
Age 85 and over
A practical driving test is required for each category on your license.
The Key Document
The Medical Certificate for Drivers 70 and Over
If you are 70 or older you must submit a certificate of good physical and mental health. It shows you are fit to drive safely. It must come from a doctor who specializes in internal medicine or geriatrics.
The most common reason for a wasted trip is a certificate that is missing something. Check it before you leave the doctor’s office.
The certificate must show
- Your full name
- Your ID number (cédula number)
- The doctor’s fresh seal
- The doctor’s signature
- An issue date no more than 6 months old
- Issued by an internal medicine or geriatrics specialist
How to Renew
Renewing Your License After 70, Step by Step
With an ID card or passport showing permanent status you can renew up to one year before expiry. With a passport showing a defined status, up to six months before.
See an internal medicine or geriatrics specialist. Confirm the certificate has your name, ID number, seal and signature.
Renew at licencia.com.pa, or go to a SERTRACEN branch. Seniors and retirees do not need an appointment in person.
Pay at the branch, or online by VISA or Mastercard, ATM or online banking. Delivery requires a VISA or Mastercard credit card.
Your new license is valid for 2 years. It cancels your previous license, which is no longer valid for driving.
What to Bring
Renewal Requirements for Foreign Residents
Requirements can change, so confirm at licencia.com.pa before you go.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Identity | Original and copy of your migration card. Permanent residents present their ID card (cédula) instead. |
| Passport | Original passport, matching the nationality on your migration card. |
| Current license | Your current Panama license. If you do not have it, complete the lost license report form. Without the physical license there is a waiting period of 72 business hours for verification. |
| Medical certificate | Required at 70 and over. Internal medicine or geriatrics specialist, no more than 6 months old, with name, ID number, seal and signature. |
| Vision and hearing | A visual and hearing validation, done virtually or in person depending on how you renew. |
| Good standing | Good standing with the traffic authority (ATTT) and a driving record that does not exceed 50 points. |
| Categories | Applicants with limited immigration status may apply only for categories A, B and C. |
Fees are listed on SERTRACEN’s cost page. Check it before you pay.
Know Before You Go
Special Cases That Catch People Out
Age 85 and over
You must take the practical skill test for each category on your license. Renew at a branch that does practical validation, with a vehicle in good condition, valid plate sticker and tag.
Lapsed more than 5 years
A license that has not been renewed in more than five years cannot be renewed online. Go in person.
No physical license
Lost or stolen? Expect a waiting period of 72 business hours while the traffic authority checks for minor violations.
Over 50 points
A driver record above 50 points at the time of your request blocks the renewal.
Save Yourself a Trip
Mistakes That Cause Delays
- A certificate that is too old. It must be no more than 6 months old.
- The wrong kind of doctor. It must be an internal medicine or geriatrics specialist.
- Missing details. No ID number, no fresh seal or no signature.
- Waiting too long. Start inside your renewal window and before your migration card expires.
- Trying online when it is not allowed. Licenses lapsed more than five years need an in person visit.
- Forgetting the credit card. Delivery needs a VISA or Mastercard credit card.
New to Panama
Getting Your First Panama License After 70
If you are a new resident converting a foreign license, the same medical certificate applies and your license is issued for 2 years. You also need your embassy certified license and affidavit, authentication at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a blood type certificate and your residency card or cédula. Visitors can drive with a valid foreign license for up to 90 days.
Who is SERTRACEN?
SERTRACEN is the company in Panama that issues secure documents such as driver’s licenses, personal identification documents and vehicle identification cards. Renewals and appointments run through licencia.com.pa.
We Can Help
Get It Done Right the First Time
Many of our clients are retirees who want their license, cédula and residency handled together.
- Prepare all your license documents
- Coordinate your medical certificate
- Schedule your SERTRACEN appointment
- Accompany you through the process
- Translate and guide you every step
- Coordinate your license with your cédula and Pensionado residency
Common Questions
Panama Driver’s License at 70 and Over: Questions and Answers
Requirements checked against SERTRACEN’s official renewal page in November 2026. Rules and fees change, so confirm at licencia.com.pa before you go.
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