Colombia – Buying or Importing a Car

How do I buy a new car in Colombia as a foreigner?

The process of purchasing a new or used vehicle in Colombia is reasonably accessible, though there are several key points that foreign nationals must understand before proceeding. The most significant practical requirement is holding the correct identification document. Since 2023, foreigners have been able to register in the RUNT system using their passport, which means a car can technically be purchased with a passport as identification — however, any person staying in Colombia for more than 90 days is legally required to obtain a Cédula de Extranjería (CE), and it is therefore advisable to secure this document before making any vehicle purchase.

Before you can lawfully own a vehicle in Colombia or obtain a Colombian driving licence, you must register yourself in the RUNT (Registro Único Nacional de Tránsito). The procedure differs somewhat between cities, but in most cases it involves visiting the local transit office in person with your identification — either a Cédula de Extranjería or a passport. First-time registration in the RUNT requires you to attend in person for fingerprinting and a photograph. The appointment typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes, though queues at transit offices can extend the wait to several hours.

Haggling over the sticker price at Colombian car dealerships is not a customary practice — the advertised price is generally what you pay. That said, there may be flexibility when it comes to added extras; dealers sometimes run promotions that bundle in accessories such as tinted windows, floor mats, or emergency safety kits at no additional charge.

When buying from a dealership, you will typically be asked to provide your passport, your Cédula de Extranjería if you have one, a Colombian proof of address, and a Colombian Tax Identification Number (NIT or RUT, issued by the DIAN). Established brands such as Mazda, Toyota, and Renault generally assist buyers with SOAT coverage and registration paperwork. The fact that dealerships handle most of the administrative steps on your behalf makes a new car purchase considerably less complicated than going through a private seller.

Vehicle financing through Colombian banks is not easily accessible for most expats. Lenders typically want to see a domestic credit history, and records from your home country are not taken into account. Building credit history locally is near impossible without formal employment, and working legally requires a valid permit. Banks also scrutinise residency stability — a tourist visa permits only 180 days in the country per calendar year, which is insufficient for lenders. For the majority of foreign nationals, paying in cash or arranging an international bank transfer is the realistic path. Pay close attention to the exchange rate at the time of transfer, as shifts in the Colombian peso can have a noticeable effect on the total cost in your own currency.

Always confirm current documentation requirements with the Ministerio de Transporte (www.mintransporte.gov.co) and RUNT (www.runt.com.co), as these rules can be revised without notice.

How do I buy a used car in Colombia?

Purchasing a second-hand vehicle in Colombia shares many similarities with the process in other countries. Prices tend to be lower than buying new, and you can choose between a dealership or a private seller. That said, careful due diligence is essential, as consumer protections are limited and fraudulent transactions do occur.

Before committing to any purchase, carry out the following checks:

• Inspect the tarjeta de propiedad (ownership card) and confirm that both the seller and the vehicle are recorded in the RUNT national transit database.
• Search the plate number on SIMIT to ensure there are no outstanding traffic fines or unpaid tax liabilities.
• Confirm the presence of a valid revisión técnico-mecánica (technical inspection certificate) if the vehicle is more than five years old.
• Use Certificar.co — Colombia’s equivalent of a vehicle history report — to check for any unresolved debts or accident records.
• Never proceed with a purchase without verifying that the VIN and engine number correspond to those on the documentation.
• Confirm that all vehicle taxes have been settled; the seller should be able to present receipts or an official certificate as evidence.

RUNT is Colombia’s national database used to verify a vehicle’s legal standing, ownership history, and transit records. You can query it at no cost at www.runt.com.co by entering the plate number. RUNT and SIMIT each serve distinct functions — for a thorough check, use both RUNT por Placa and SIMIT por Placa.

The documents that typically change hands at the point of sale include: a photocopy of the ID (cédula) of both buyer and seller (foreign buyers will need a cédula de extranjería); a photocopy of the current SOAT insurance along with proof of payment; a copy of the sale agreement, invoice, or declaration of ownership transfer; photocopies of the driving licences of both parties; an up-to-date technical inspection certificate where required; and a Paz y Salvo — an official document from RUNT confirming the vehicle has no unresolved debts or fines with the transport authorities.

Following the transaction, the ownership transfer — known as a traspaso — must be registered with the local transit authority, and the vehicle record updated in the RUNT system under the new owner’s name. Foreign nationals cannot complete this registration without a Cédula de Extranjería, so it is essential to have this document in hand before moving forward with any used car purchase.

Can I import a vehicle into Colombia, and how does the process work?

Colombia enforces rigorous restrictions on the permanent importation of vehicles. Only brand-new vehicles from the current model year with zero kilometres on the odometer qualify for permanent importation. Used vehicles are broadly prohibited, with the sole exception being classic or collector cars that are more than 35 years old, which are subject to special permits and certifications from Colombian authorities.

All imported vehicles must comply with Euro 6b emissions standards, which came into effect on 1 January 2023. Colombia uses right-hand traffic, and only left-hand-drive vehicles are permitted on public roads. Unlike some countries that offer a “removal goods” or “personal effects” concession allowing returning or relocating residents to import a vehicle they previously owned at a reduced duty rate, no such exemption exists in Colombia for non-diplomats. Private individuals who are not diplomats may not import used vehicles; only brand-new vehicles manufactured in the current model year with zero accumulated kilometres are permitted for permanent import by non-diplomatic foreign nationals.

Foreign diplomats are exempt from duties and taxes on vehicle imports. To import a vehicle on a permanent basis, you must first obtain an import licence from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism (Ministerio de Comercio, Industria y Turismo), confirming that the import is for non-commercial purposes.

The step-by-step process for permanently importing a new vehicle is as follows:

1. Verify that the vehicle is a current model year, zero-kilometre unit compliant with Euro 6b emissions standards and configured as a left-hand-drive.
2. Obtain an Anti-Pollution Control Certificate confirming the vehicle meets Colombian environmental requirements. This certificate must confirm that all parts and accessories are operational and pose no adverse environmental impact, and must be legalised by the Colombian consulate in the country of origin.
3. Apply for an import licence from the Ministerio de Comercio, Industria y Turismo. Enrol in the VUCE (Single Window for Foreign Trade) platform, which is compulsory for all importers. All importers must also be legally registered in Colombia, holding a Tax Identification Number (NIT) and registered in the Single Tax Registry (RUT) with the National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN).
4. Retain the services of a licensed customs broker or agency, which is strongly advisable to ensure procedural compliance and to expedite clearance.
5. Ship the vehicle to a Colombian port — Cartagena and Buenaventura are the primary entry points for vehicles. Prepare all shipping documentation, including the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and vehicle registration papers.
6. Visit an authorised financial institution to settle all import duties, VAT, surcharges, and other applicable fees, then present the full documentation package to customs.
7. Once customs clearance is granted, register the vehicle with the RUNT and obtain Colombian licence plates.

For temporary imports — covering tourism or transit — foreign-registered vehicles may be brought into Colombia for a limited period. The vehicle owner must secure a permit before driving on Colombian roads. In some instances, these permits are issued at the border and include immediate purchase of SOAT compulsory insurance. The owner must complete a Temporary Vehicle Import Form (Formulario de importación temporal de vehículos). The maximum permitted duration for a foreign-plated vehicle in Colombia is 180 days, assuming one permit extension by DIAN and a corresponding extension of the tourist visa.

The principal government bodies overseeing vehicle imports are:

• DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales) — customs and taxation authority: www.dian.gov.co
• Ministerio de Transporte — transport permits and road regulations: www.mintransporte.gov.co
• Ministerio de Comercio, Industria y Turismo — import licensing: www.mincit.gov.co

Always verify the current requirements with DIAN and the Ministry of Transport before initiating any import process, as regulations and emissions standards are subject to revision.

What are the costs involved in importing a car to Colombia?

Bringing a vehicle into Colombia permanently is a costly undertaking. The tax burden alone significantly exceeds that of many other Latin American countries, and the total landed cost can end up far above the vehicle’s original purchase price. Non-diplomats face customs duties and taxes ranging from approximately 15% to 85% of the cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value, depending on a number of variables.

The principal taxes and duties (as of 2024) are:

It is worth noting that Colombia uses the CIF method for calculating import duties and taxes — meaning the taxable base includes not only the value of the goods themselves but also shipping and insurance costs. This raises the overall tax liability compared with regimes that apply duties solely to the FOB (Free on Board) value.

Beyond the tax charges, additional costs to factor into your budget include:

• Ocean freight: Shipping from Panama to Colombia typically costs between approximately USD 1,500 and USD 2,500, depending on the method chosen and the port of origin. Shipments from more distant origins such as Europe or Asia will be considerably more expensive.
• RORO vs. container shipping: Container shipping involves sealing the vehicle inside a container for added security; RORO (roll-on, roll-off) shipping involves driving the vehicle directly onto and off the vessel via a ramp. Container shipping is generally the more expensive of the two options.
• Homologation and compliance costs: If modifications are needed to bring the vehicle into line with Colombian technical or environmental standards — such as headlight adjustments, speedometer conversion, or emissions system certification — these must be completed prior to registration.
• RUNT registration fees: These apply when registering the newly imported vehicle in the national system.
• Customs clearance time: Customs clearance typically takes around 3 to 4 weeks from the date of arrival at the port or airport.

Given the combined weight of import duties, VAT, consumption tax, and logistics expenses, purchasing a new vehicle locally within Colombia is often the more economical option. Always verify the current duty rates with DIAN at www.dian.gov.co before committing to any import. Rates and tax structures are liable to change through legislation, and the figures above should be regarded as indicative only.

How do I register a vehicle in Colombia?

Vehicle registration in Colombia is managed through the RUNT (Registro Único Nacional de Tránsito) — the national transit registry — working alongside municipal transit offices (Secretarías de Tránsito) in each locality. RUNT serves as Colombia’s central database for verifying a vehicle’s legal standing, ownership, and traffic history. All vehicles must be entered into this system before they may lawfully be driven on Colombian roads.

The general registration process involves the following steps:

1. Enrol yourself in the RUNT system by visiting a local transit office (Ventanilla Única de Servicios in larger cities) in person. This step must be completed before you can legally own a vehicle in Colombia.
2. Obtain the mandatory SOAT insurance for the vehicle before proceeding further with registration.
3. If the vehicle is more than five years old, obtain a valid Revisión Técnico-Mecánica (roadworthiness inspection certificate) from an authorised diagnostic centre (CDA).
4. Submit the required documents to your local transit authority. For a new vehicle purchased locally, this typically includes: the purchase invoice, your Cédula de Extranjería or passport, a valid SOAT certificate, and a Paz y Salvo confirming no outstanding fines.
5. Pay the applicable registration and transfer fees at the transit office or through designated payment channels.
6. Receive your tarjeta de propiedad (ownership card) and, in cities that operate plate-restriction schemes, your assigned licence plates.

For an imported vehicle, additional documentation is required, including proof of customs clearance from DIAN, the import licence, and the Anti-Pollution Control Certificate. Beyond these supplementary documents, the registration procedure follows the same steps as for a locally purchased vehicle once customs clearance has been obtained.

After settling all taxes and fees, you must obtain licence plates for the vehicle by registering it with the local transit authority. The RUNT can be accessed at www.runt.com.co. For up-to-date fee schedules and details of local office locations, contact your municipal Secretaría de Tránsito.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Colombia?

All vehicles operating on Colombian roads must carry compulsory third-party accident insurance, known as the Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Tránsito — universally referred to as SOAT. This coverage is mandatory for every vehicle travelling within or through Colombian territory. Unlike systems in some countries where state-administered insurers manage compulsory third-party liability, SOAT policies in Colombia are underwritten by private insurance companies and regulated by the Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia.

SOAT functions as an accident insurance product attached to the vehicle. In the event of a road accident anywhere in Colombia, it provides immediate medical protection for any person injured — regardless of fault. Crucially, SOAT is attached to the vehicle rather than the individual driver — so if you regularly drive more than one vehicle, separate SOAT coverage is required for each.

The primary purpose of SOAT is to protect third-party victims of road accidents, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. It covers the cost of transporting an injured person from the accident scene to the nearest medical facility and pays for initial emergency treatment. In the event of a fatality, it provides compensation to the victim’s family. It is important to understand that basic SOAT only covers the medical costs of third-party injuries — it does not extend to repairs to your own vehicle. SOAT benefits are also subject to defined limits.

As of 2025, SOAT premiums start at around COP 445,000 for small saloon cars. This is an annual obligation for all vehicles travelling in Colombia. The premium is calculated according to the vehicle category — motorcycle, car, or SUV — as well as the model and engine displacement. SOAT can be purchased online, through insurance brokers, and in some cases at petrol stations and supermarkets.

Voluntary comprehensive insurance is an additional, non-mandatory option that covers the vehicle owner and the vehicle itself in circumstances such as accidents, theft of parts or accessories, vandalism, vehicle theft, damage caused to third-party property, and injury to or death of a third party. In light of the hazards associated with driving in Colombian cities, most expats are strongly encouraged to take out comprehensive cover alongside the mandatory SOAT. Bear in mind that Colombian insurers do not formally recognise no-claims records from other countries, so you may initially face higher premiums; it is worth comparing quotes from several providers.

Operating a vehicle without valid SOAT is an offence and can result in financial penalties and immobilisation of the vehicle. For current SOAT rates and a list of authorised insurers, visit the Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia at www.superfinanciera.gov.co.

What driving licence do I need in Colombia as an expat?

Visitors to Colombia may drive for up to six months using a foreign driving licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, the rules change significantly once you become a resident. Any person holding a Cédula de Extranjería, or who has spent more than six months in Colombia, is required to obtain a Colombian driving licence (pase de conducción).

Colombia’s licensing framework is more demanding for most nationalities than the direct exchange schemes found in some other countries. Citizens of Spain, Peru, Chile, and South Korea are able to have their foreign licences formally “validated” for use in Colombia. Nationals of all other countries must go through the full procedure to be issued a Colombian licence for the first time.

For those who need to obtain a full Colombian licence, the requirements include: a minimum age of 16 for a private licence or 18 for a commercial licence; a valid passport and Cédula de Extranjería; enrolment at a certified driving school (CEA); a medical assessment at a recognised driver evaluation centre (CRC); registration in the RUNTPRO system; and passing both the theoretical knowledge test and the practical driving examination.

International Driving Permits do not function as a standalone authorisation for residents in Colombia. While an IDP may serve a useful purpose during the initial tourist period when used alongside your foreign licence, it cannot replace a Colombian licence once residency has been established. Driving without the correct licence is both a safety risk and a costly legal matter — if caught driving without any licence at all, the fine in 2025 is COP 1,207,800, and the vehicle can also be immobilised on the spot.

Licencing administration falls under the RUNT, with day-to-day operations carried out at local Secretarías de Tránsito or Ventanillas Únicas de Servicios (VUS). Access the RUNTPRO system at www.runt.com.co for official information. Always check the current position on bilateral licence recognition agreements with the Ministry of Transport at www.mintransporte.gov.co, as these arrangements can be revised.

How do I sell a car in Colombia?

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Colombia is a formal process that must be officially recorded with both the RUNT and the relevant local transit authority. Until the transfer is properly completed and reflected in the national database, the original owner may continue to bear legal and financial responsibility for the vehicle — including liability for fines or accidents that arise after the handover. It is therefore firmly in the seller’s interest to finalise the process without delay.

The key steps involved in selling a vehicle are:

1. Confirm that all the vehicle’s paperwork is current: check that the tarjeta de propiedad, SOAT, technical inspection (where applicable), and annual vehicle tax (impuesto vehicular) are all valid and fully paid up.
2. Obtain a Paz y Salvo from the RUNT confirming that the vehicle carries no outstanding fines, debts, or encumbrances.
3. Prepare a written sale contract (contrato de compraventa) or invoice that records the agreed price and the transfer of ownership rights, signed by both parties.
4. Both buyer and seller must appear at the local transit authority with their identification (Cédula de Ciudadanía for Colombian nationals, Cédula de Extranjería for foreign residents) to complete the traspaso — the official ownership transfer.
5. Pay the applicable transfer fees and ensure the RUNT record is updated to show the new owner. Registration of the transfer with RUNT is mandatory.

The seller’s details remain linked to the vehicle in the national database until the RUNT record is formally updated and a transfer confirmation has been received. Retain copies of all sale documentation, including proof of fee payment, in case any dispute arises at a later date. Vehicle owners and importers should keep transaction records for a minimum of five years.

On the matter of tax: any gain realised from the sale of a vehicle may in principle be subject to Colombian income tax rules, depending on the seller’s tax residency status and the amount of profit made. Expats who qualify as Colombian tax residents are advised to seek guidance from a local tax professional or consult the DIAN at www.dian.gov.co before finalising a sale.

Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Colombia?

Owning a vehicle in Colombia entails a series of recurring annual responsibilities. These broadly mirror the combination of road tax, compulsory insurance, and periodic roadworthiness testing familiar in many countries — but the Colombian framework has its own specific features worth knowing about.

Annual vehicle tax (Impuesto sobre Vehículos Automotores): This yearly charge — the Impuesto Vehicular — falls due around March and is paid locally to the relevant Secretaría Distrital de Hacienda. The exact procedure and the platform used to pay can vary between municipalities. The tax is assessed on the basis of an estimated commercial value (avalúo comercial) assigned to the vehicle by the authorities — note that this official valuation may be considerably lower than the vehicle’s actual market price. For older, lower-value vehicles, the annual charge is generally modest — broadly comparable in structure to vehicle excise duty in other countries, though levied locally rather than nationally.

SOAT insurance (annual): The mandatory SOAT policy must be renewed every 12 months. It can be purchased online or at major petrol stations. Allowing the policy to lapse is an offence and can result in a fine of COP 1.4 million and potential impoundment of the vehicle (as of 2025).

Revisión Técnico-Mecánica (technical and mechanical inspection): Vehicles more than five years old are required to undergo periodic inspection. This is broadly analogous to annual roadworthiness testing schemes such as the UK MOT, though precise requirements and frequencies may vary slightly depending on vehicle age and city. Inspections are conducted at authorised Centros de Diagnóstico Automotor (CDAs). Vehicles over five years old must also pass an annual emissions test as part of this inspection. As of 2024, the average cost of the technical-mechanical inspection for motorcycles was approximately COP 220,000 (roughly USD 55); costs for cars vary but are in a comparable range — confirm current fees with your local CDA.

Pico y Placa driving restrictions: Pico y Placa schemes restrict driving based on the final digit of a vehicle’s licence plate number, and are strictly enforced in cities such as Medellín. The specific hours and days affected differ from city to city but typically coincide with weekday morning and evening rush hours. Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali all operate versions of this scheme. Violations attract fines. When considering a vehicle purchase, note what plate number you will be assigned and check the current Pico y Placa schedule with your local Secretaría de Tránsito.

For all ongoing obligations, consult the RUNT at www.runt.com.co and your local Secretaría de Tránsito for up-to-date fee schedules and requirements, which are reviewed and updated periodically.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a car in Colombia without a Cédula de Extranjería?

Since 2023, foreigners have been permitted to register in the RUNT system using their passport, which means a vehicle can in principle be purchased with a passport as the identifying document. In practice, however, formally registering the vehicle in your own name without a Cédula de Extranjería presents significant obstacles. If you intend to stay in Colombia long-term, obtaining a CE before proceeding with any vehicle purchase is strongly recommended. Check the current position with your local transit authority, as requirements may have changed.

Are used cars expensive in Colombia compared to new?

Used car prices in Colombia are widely regarded as high — private sellers frequently price second-hand vehicles very close to the cost of a new equivalent. New vehicles are themselves expensive relative to many international markets, as most passenger cars are imported and attract substantial duties and taxes. It is worth doing a thorough price comparison between used cars and new dealership offers before making a decision.

Can I bring my used car from abroad when I move to Colombia?

Non-diplomats are prohibited from permanently importing used vehicles into Colombia. There is no “removal goods” or “personal effects” concession that permits relocating individuals to bring in a vehicle they already owned at a reduced duty rate. For those moving to Colombia, the realistic choices are to sell the vehicle before departure and buy locally, or to import a brand-new vehicle and pay all applicable duties. Confirm the current rules with DIAN at www.dian.gov.co before making any arrangements.

How does the mandatory SOAT insurance work in practice?

SOAT operates on a no-fault basis and is designed primarily to protect third parties injured in road accidents. It covers the cost of transporting an injured person from the accident scene to the nearest medical facility, along with initial emergency treatment expenses. In the event of a fatality, it provides compensation to the victim’s family. SOAT does not cover damage to your own vehicle. Given this limitation, supplementing SOAT with a comprehensive voluntary insurance policy is highly advisable, particularly in busy urban areas.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Colombia?

Visitors may drive in Colombia for up to six months provided they carry both their original foreign licence and a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP presented on its own without the original foreign licence is not accepted. Once you become a resident — meaning you hold a Cédula de Extranjería — you are legally required to obtain a Colombian driving licence. For the latest guidance, check the Ministry of Transport at www.mintransporte.gov.co.

What is Pico y Placa and how does it affect me as a vehicle owner?

Pico y Placa is a traffic management scheme that prohibits vehicles with certain plate numbers from being driven during defined periods — typically weekday rush hours — and is enforced rigorously in cities such as Medellín and Bogotá. The exact rules differ from city to city and are periodically revised. Breaching the restrictions results in a fine. When purchasing a vehicle, find out what plate number you will receive and consult the current Pico y Placa timetable with your local Secretaría de Tránsito.

What happens if I sell a car but the ownership transfer is not completed?

Until the traspaso has been entered into the RUNT and the vehicle record formally shows the new owner, the previous owner may continue to bear legal and financial responsibility for any fines, taxes, or accidents connected to the vehicle. It is essential to complete the ownership transfer at the local transit authority promptly after the sale. Retain a copy of the signed sale contract and any transfer confirmation documents as evidence in the event of a later dispute.

Are electric vehicles (EVs) a viable option in Colombia?

More than 58,000 electric and hybrid vehicles have been sold in Colombia in recent years. However, charging infrastructure remains underdeveloped — there are fewer than 600 charging stations across the country, with the majority concentrated in Bogotá and Medellín. Zero import tax incentives are currently available for pure EVs until 2030. Electric vehicles represent a growing choice in the major cities, but limited charging coverage can be a practical concern for drivers venturing beyond urban areas. Check the latest EV incentive rules with DIAN, as the tax benefit landscape for electric vehicles continues to evolve.