How to Get and Renew a Driver's License in Colombia (2026)

Getting or renewing a driver's license in Colombia has always been a test of patience, but in 2026 the rules changed drastically. If you're thinking about getting your license for the first time, get ready: the new CALE system makes it stricter and, honestly, more expensive.

1. The big change in 2026: What on earth is the CALE System?

Goodbye to the era when driving school almost handed you your license. With Resolution 20253040037125, in 2026 the Centros de Apoyo Logístico de Evaluación (CALE) began operating for real. If you want to see real options right now, you can view cars and motorcycles available in Colombia Move — posting is completely free.

Now, the Centros de Enseñanza Automovilística (CEA) only handle your teaching. The one who evaluates you and decides whether you're fit to drive is the CALE, in a completely independent way.

You face a theory exam of 40 to 50 questions (you must pass with at least 80%) and a practical exam divided into two phases: one on a closed track to assess parking and maneuvers, and another on public roads, driving at least 10 km in real traffic. Keep this in mind: if you fail, you get a second free attempt, but you must take it at the same CALE within the following 10 calendar days.

2. Step by step to get your license for the first time

If you're starting from scratch, this is the exact order you should follow so you don't lose time or money:

• 1. Register in the RUNT: This is the national registry of drivers and vehicles. Without it, you cannot start any procedure.
• 2. Take the course at the CEA: Fees are regulated by the UVB (Unidad de Valor Básico), which for 2026 was set at $12,110 COP. The B1 category course costs around $1,200,000 COP.
• 3. Medical exam at the CRC: A Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores evaluates your vision, hearing, and reflexes. Approximate cost: $220,000 COP.
• 4. Pass the CALE: The theory and practical exams. This is the new part, and the one most people don't expect.
• 5. Pay the transit fees: This is done at the Ventanilla Única de Servicios (VUS) or the mobility secretariat of your city. In Bogotá: $329,800 for a car and $272,700 for a motorcycle (2026).

Once you have the license in hand, you'll need a vehicle. According to Colombia Move marketplace data (June 2026), there are currently 0 active listings in the vehicles section (cars and motorcycles). This means buyer demand far exceeds supply; a golden opportunity if you want to sell your current car without paying commissions.

And if you're buying a used vehicle, don't forget to check our guide on the vehicle title transfer in Colombia so they don't scam you with the paperwork.

3. Real fees: How much does the license cost in 2026?

Let's get to the numbers. Getting a car license (category B1) for the first time will cost you around $2,400,000 COP in total.

The approximate breakdown is: the training course at the CEA costs around $1,200,000 COP. The new CALE exams add up to about $660,000 COP (the theory test costs between $108,000 and $115,000, and the B1 practical test between $502,000 and $582,000). Add to this the CRC medical exam (~$220,000) and the RUNT registration (~$19,000).

Finally, there are the issuance fees. In Bogotá, the official 2026 fees are $329,800 for a car and $272,700 for a motorcycle. Keep in mind that these last values and the CRC ones vary slightly depending on your municipality.

4. How to renew (refrendar) the license without losing your mind

There's widespread panic about renewal because of the new rules, but I have excellent news: to renew (refrendar) your license you do NOT have to take the CALE exams.

The process is much simpler and cheaper. You only need to be registered in the RUNT, get a medical exam at a CRC, pay the renewal fees (which in Bogotá cost $151,500 for a car and $266,400 for a motorcycle) and, very importantly, be free and clear of debts.

If you're unsure whether you have any fines that could block the process, here's how to check traffic tickets in the SIMIT in a couple of clicks.

Remember that to drive legally, in addition to a valid license, your vehicle must have its paperwork up to date. Check out our guide on the SOAT and comprehensive insurance to avoid having your vehicle impounded.

5. License validity by age and rules for foreigners

Don't assume your license lasts a lifetime. For private vehicles (categories A and B), the license is valid for 10 years if you are under 60. If you are between 60 and 80, validity drops to 5 years, and for those over 80, it must be renewed annually.

Are you a foreigner? You can drive in Colombia with your home country's license during the period authorized for your stay as a tourist (up to 3 months, extendable to 6 months). But if you are already a long-term resident, you must get a Colombian license from scratch. If you're thinking of bringing your own vehicle from your country, read our guide on importing cars to Colombia.

6. The points system: Myth or reality?

You've probably heard in the news or on social media that Colombia was going to implement a points-based license system, similar to Europe's, where your license is suspended if you accumulate violations.

You can relax. In June 2026, the House of Representatives of Congress definitively sank this bill due to fiscal concerns. For now, the points-based penalty system does not exist and is not in effect in Colombia.

Frequently asked questions

❓ Do I need to take the CALE exam to renew my license?

No, to renew (refrendar) a driver's license in Colombia you do not need to take the CALE theory or practical exams. You only need to get a medical exam at a CRC, be free and clear of fines in the SIMIT, and pay the renewal processing fees at your local transit authority.

❓ How much does it cost to get a driver's license for the first time in 2026?

The total cost in 2026 is around $2,400,000 COP for category B1 (private car). This includes the training course at the CEA (~$1,200,000), the CALE theory and practical exams (~$660,000), the CRC medical exam (~$220,000), the RUNT registration (~$19,000), and the transit issuance fees ($329,800 in Bogotá, source: bogota.gov.co).

❓ What happens if I fail the CALE theory or practical exam?

If you fail a CALE evaluation (rule in effect in 2026), you have the right to take it once more at no additional cost. You must schedule this second attempt at the same CALE within 10 calendar days after receiving your result; if you don't do so within that period, you will have to pay the full fee again.

❓ How often must I renew my driver's license for a private car?

The validity for private vehicles (category B) is 10 years for drivers under 60. For people between 60 and 80, validity drops to 5 years, and for those over 80, the license must be renewed annually (every 12 months).

❓ Is it safe and legal to drive in Colombia with my foreign license?

Yes, it is legal and safe to drive in Colombia with your valid foreign license during the first 3 months of your stay. This period can be extended to 6 months in total if your tourist stay allows it (rule in effect in 2026 according to the Ministry of Transport). If you are a long-term resident, you must obtain a Colombian license from scratch.

❓ What is the points system for licenses, and is it in effect in Colombia?

No, the points-based penalty system for driver's licenses is not in effect in Colombia. Although a bill to implement it was debated, the House of Representatives definitively sank the proposal in June 2026.

❓ Where are the exams taken and where is the license issued?

Each step takes place in a different location. The driving course is taken at an authorized CEA. The medical exam is taken at a CRC (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores). You take the theory and practical exams before a CALE. Finally, you pay the issuance fees at the Ventanilla Única de Servicios (VUS) or the mobility secretariat of your municipality.