Guide to Driving in Argentina

Argentina is not an easy country to drive into. Some roads are well-maintained while others may have huge cracks and holes. The main rule is that the traffic is on the right and overtakes are on the left. In addition, you are not allowed to turn left while driving on a main road unless a specific sign indicates differently. We have to warn you that Argentinean drivers are not calm and they often drive reckless. Don’t be surprised to see one or two crossing the intersection on the red light. Remember not to stay in their path. Unfortunately, in most of the areas around Argentina car thefts are not a strange sight. You should always park your car in well-lit places, close to a road. In terms of compulsory equipment you should always carry a first-aid kit, two warning triangles and a fire extinguisher. It’s also mandatory that the handbrake of the car is in great shape. Some of the highways in Argentina use a toll-system; you should check a detailed map to see exactly the amount you’re talking about. It’s usually about 2E-10E. Parking on the streets of large cities like Buenos Aires is pretty straightforward. There are a lot of parking lots, some of them are multi-storey and they have surveillance cameras. In most of the areas you’ll be required to pay a small fee for your stay.

Police cars in Argentina are often white with blue areas on the side and optionally on the hood. They’re accompanied by the text ‘POLICIA’ or ‘POLICIA FEDERAL’. To drive in Argentina all you need is your domestic license, your identity card, the car’s registration certificate and the third-party insurance policy, in case that you get into a crash. Always keep a defensive style of driving and be polite with police officers. Also, don’t pick-up strangers who seem to need help.

Essential Driving Information

• All the passengers of a vehicle are required to use the seatbelt if fitted.
• The use of the dipped beam is compulsory at night and when the visibility drops due to the rain or fog.
• You are not allowed to operate mobile devices while you’re behind the wheel. Bringing the vehicle to a full stop it’s mandatory before using your cellphone.
• The international driver’s permit is required only if your domestic license is written in non-Latin characters.