Argentina – Buying or Importing a Car

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

Foreigners who hold proof of temporary residence and who meet the applicable tax requirements are permitted to buy or sell a vehicle in Argentina without facing additional legal obstacles. Visitors travelling on a tourist visa and lacking any form of residency status, however, run into serious barriers — Argentine immigration authorities have been explicit that purchasing a new car as a tourist is not permitted. Once you have at least a temporary residency application in progress, the path to buying a car becomes considerably more straightforward.

To purchase a vehicle in Argentina, you will need several things in place: an Argentine driver’s licence or an internationally recognised driving permit; a Certificado de Domicilio — an official document confirming your residential address in Argentina, available from the police station covering your neighbourhood; and a CDI, or ‘clave de identificación’, which is the tax identification number issued to non-residents by AFIP, the Argentine federal revenue authority. If you have already been granted permanent residency and hold a DNI (national identity document), this supersedes the CDI requirement.

The buying process at a dealership involves selecting the vehicle you want, reviewing the sales contract the dealer provides, and paying a deposit — typically ten percent of the total purchase price. New cars are sold exclusively through authorised dealerships, and you will be asked to present a copy of your passport as part of the purchase documentation.

Car prices in Argentina are considerable — reliable new models generally begin at around US$20,000. Well-known international brands including Fiat, Renault, Volkswagen, Audi, Nissan, Honda, Toyota, and BMW all have dealership networks in Buenos Aires and other major cities.

Unless you hold a DNI and can qualify for a bank loan, you should expect to pay the full purchase amount in cash. Financing is an option for those who can demonstrate local employment and income, but for the majority of expats who have not yet built up an Argentine credit history, an outright cash purchase is the practical reality. Always verify the current documentation and tax requirements directly with AFIP (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos), Argentina’s tax and customs authority, before proceeding.

How do I buy a used car in Argentina?

The second-hand car market in Argentina is active, with Mercado Libre being the most widely used platform for listings. Departing expats also frequently advertise their vehicles on Craigslist. While there is no shortage of options in the private market, caution is warranted. Many experienced residents advise buying new where finances allow, since second-hand vehicles in Argentina are not always well maintained, and it is not uncommon for a car to carry hidden encumbrances — outstanding fines or liens that only come to light after the sale has gone through.

Another factor worth bearing in mind is that cars in Argentina tend to hold their value well, meaning a used model might cost only marginally less than a comparable new one. Before agreeing to any purchase, conduct thorough due diligence: check for unpaid fines, outstanding liens, overdue road tax, and any accident history associated with the vehicle. The DNRPA provides an online tool called the “Estimador” that lets you calculate the expected costs of a used car transfer — navigate to the “Transferencia” option, then enter the vehicle’s licence plate number, the declared transaction value, and the current owner’s province of residence. The DNRPA is the authoritative national registry for verifying ownership status and encumbrances on any vehicle. You can access it at dnrpa.gov.ar.

When a sale is finalised, a formal ownership transfer — known as a transferencia — must be completed. Both the buyer and the seller are required to attend a DNRPA seccional office (a local branch of the registry) in person, bringing the vehicle’s title document (título del automotor), proof of identity, proof of address, and the CDI or DNI of each party. Buying privately can be an extremely demanding experience: the paperwork is extensive, conducted entirely in Spanish, and spread across several different government agencies. There is no reliable way to predict how long the individual steps will take or what each will cost, so anyone pursuing a private purchase should be prepared for a protracted process and multiple visits to various public offices before the transaction is complete.

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

Argentina does allow foreign nationals who are relocating to the country to bring a vehicle in as part of their personal effects, but the framework governing this is strict, heavily documented, and costly. The regime is considerably more onerous than equivalent removal-goods schemes in many other countries — while importing a personally owned used car might incur little or no duty elsewhere, Argentina levies significant taxes on vehicles that exceed a prescribed threshold value.

Permanent residency must be secured before the vehicle reaches Argentina. The importation of new vehicles is also subject to specific rules — not all makes and models may be brought in. The vehicle may not arrive in Argentina earlier than three months before the owner, nor later than six months after the owner’s arrival. Until the owner has physically entered the country, a vehicle already in Argentina will remain in customs storage and will not be released.

The imported vehicle may not be sold within Argentina during the first two years following importation. The authorities also permit the temporary importation of one car and/or one motorcycle for the same duration as the owner’s visa, with renewals available in line with visa renewals.

Argentina uses right-hand traffic, and the overwhelming majority of vehicles registered in the country are left-hand drive. Importing a right-hand drive vehicle would create serious practical difficulties around regulatory compliance and registration, and is strongly discouraged. Before beginning any vehicle import process, it is highly advisable to engage a licensed customs broker — an agente de aduana — who can guide you through the specific requirements and represent you with the relevant authorities.

The step-by-step process for importing a vehicle as personal effects is as follows:

1. Obtain permanent residency (DNI) before the vehicle arrives in Argentina — this is a hard requirement.
2. Appoint a licensed Argentine customs broker (agente de aduana) to manage the import declaration and customs clearance process.
3. Ensure your vehicle departs its country of origin and arrives in Argentina within the permitted time window: no more than three months before your own arrival and no later than six months after.
4. Prepare the required documentation: proof of ownership (vehicle title/registration), proof of permanent residency, passport, AFIP tax registration, and a commercial invoice or valuation document for the vehicle.
5. Provide a certificate of origin for the vehicle, authenticated by an Argentine consulate, as the Argentine government mandates this for imports.
6. Submit the import declaration through the General Customs Bureau (Dirección General de Aduanas — DGA), which applies, collects, and controls taxes under the Argentine Customs Code.
7. Pay all applicable import duties, VAT, and other levies (see costs section below) — duties must be paid before the vehicle is released from customs.
8. Once cleared, proceed to a DNRPA seccional to register the vehicle and obtain Argentine number plates. The number plate application must be filed within 15 days after customs clearance, although this period may be extended to a maximum of 30 days.

For official guidance, consult AFIP (which oversees the DGA) and the Dirección General de Aduanas. All customs and import matters ultimately fall under AFIP’s jurisdiction.

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

Bringing a vehicle into Argentina from abroad is among the most financially demanding import propositions in the entire region. While other countries may allow returning residents to import a vehicle they already own with minimal or no duty, Argentina applies a multi-layered tax structure that can push the total landed cost of an imported car well above its original price.

Vehicles with a declared value of US$15,000 or less are exempt from import duties, taxes, and other charges under the personal effects regime — as of the figures available at time of writing. This threshold is subject to change, and you should always confirm the current figure with AFIP before making any plans. For vehicles whose value exceeds US$15,000, the estimated total cost — including taxes and freight — is approximately 80 to 100 percent of the vehicle’s value. This represents an exceptionally heavy burden by any international comparison.

The cost breakdown for a standard commercial (non-personal-effects) import typically includes:

It is worth noting that Argentina calculates import duty and associated taxes on a CIF basis — meaning the taxable value includes not only the price of the vehicle but also the cost of shipping. Additionally, in December 2024 the Argentine government abolished the PAIS tax that had previously been applied to foreign currency transactions, which had until that point added a further layer of cost for importers. Given how frequently Argentina’s fiscal framework is revised, always confirm the current position with AFIP before committing to any import.

Beyond duties and taxes, you should also budget for any compliance or homologation work that may be required if your vehicle’s technical specifications differ from Argentine standards — for example, lighting configurations, speedometer calibration, or emissions equipment. Modifications to meet local roadworthiness standards can add considerably to the overall cost. Always obtain a current, itemised quote from a licensed customs broker before proceeding with any import.

How do I register a vehicle in Argentina?

Vehicle registration in Argentina is handled by the Dirección Nacional de los Registros Nacionales de la Propiedad del Automotor (DNRPA), which operates a network of seccional offices organised according to the owner’s place of residence. The DNRPA functions as the sole national authority responsible for recording vehicle ownership throughout Argentina — its role is broadly comparable to a vehicle licensing authority or DMV found in other countries, although it operates specifically as a property registry rather than as a road licensing body.

The registration process for a new vehicle purchased locally typically follows these steps:

1. For a new car, the dealership generally manages the initial registration formalities on the buyer’s behalf, submitting the purchase invoice and identification documents to the DNRPA directly.
2. An application form must be lodged with the DNRPA along with all supporting documentation, and a vehicle inspection must be completed — this involves verification of the chassis and engine numbers, known as Form 12P.
3. Mandatory third-party insurance (Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil) must be obtained — both the Free Circulation Certificate and the number plates will only be issued once the vehicle is covered by the compulsory insurance required under Law 24.449.
4. The DNRPA then issues the vehicle title (título del automotor) and assigns Argentine number plates. This document must be kept safely at all times, as it serves as legal proof of ownership and is required for any future transfer or sale.

For imported vehicles, once the car has entered the country following customs clearance, a chassis and engine number verification (Form 12P) must be carried out at an authorised inspection centre, after which a Certificado de Libre Circulación (Free Circulation Certificate) will be issued. Some provinces also require a separate Vehicle Technical Inspection for used vehicles, though this is not applicable to new cars.

The DNRPA’s official website at dnrpa.gov.ar provides a directory of local seccional offices and current fee schedules. Given the complexity of the process, attending your local seccional in person is strongly recommended rather than attempting to resolve queries remotely.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Argentina?

All vehicle owners in Argentina are legally required to hold third-party liability insurance under national law. This obligation is established by Law 24.449, Argentina’s primary national road traffic legislation. The mandatory minimum cover is referred to as Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil — civil liability insurance — and provides protection against loss or injury caused to third parties. In concept it resembles the compulsory third-party motor insurance required in most countries, though the specific coverage thresholds and market structures in Argentina differ from those found elsewhere.

Argentina’s insurance sector is supervised by the Superintendencia de Seguros de la Nación (SSN), the national insurance regulatory body. Cover is available from a wide range of private insurers, and premiums are influenced by the vehicle’s assessed value, the driver’s profile, and geographic location. For those who want broader protection beyond the statutory minimum, comprehensive cover — known locally as todo riesgo — is readily available throughout the market.

Expats should be aware of an important practical issue regarding insurance and driving licences. In Argentina, motor insurance policies are generally attached to the vehicle rather than the individual driver. If the vehicle is operated by a holder of a local Argentine licence, the insurer will typically cover any accident involving that driver. However, a foreign national driving on a non-Argentine licence who is involved in an accident may find that their driver-related liability is not covered under the policy. For this reason, obtaining an Argentine driving licence — or at the very least, confirming in writing with your insurer that you are covered while holding a foreign licence — is essential. Always fully disclose your situation to your insurance provider before getting behind the wheel.

Unlike the transfer of no-claims history that is possible between some countries — particularly within the European Union — foreign no-claims records are not formally portable into the Argentine insurance market. Expect to negotiate your premium on local terms from the outset. Consult the SSN or a licensed insurance broker for up-to-date requirements and available policy options.

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

Driving on a foreign licence is permitted in Argentina for a maximum of six months. After that period, you are legally required to hold an Argentine Licencia Nacional de Conducir. An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country may be used alongside your foreign national licence during this initial window, but it does not in any way extend the six-month limit. Obtaining an IDP before relocating to Argentina is nonetheless advisable, as it provides an officially recognised translation of your licence credentials that can be helpful in dealings with police or insurance companies.

The process of obtaining an Argentine driving licence varies considerably depending on your country of origin. Unless you hold a Spanish or Italian driving licence, you will generally be required to pass both the written theory examination and the practical driving test in Argentina. Argentina has bilateral agreements with Spain and Italy that simplify or eliminate these exam requirements — holders of licences from those countries should contact the local licensing directorate to confirm the current exchange procedure.

In Argentina, the Licencia Nacional de Conducir is a government-issued authorisation granted to individuals who apply for whichever licence categories they require. Licences are issued by municipal or provincial licensing authorities rather than a single centralised national agency. In the City of Buenos Aires, this function is carried out by the Dirección General de Licencias. Overall road safety policy and licence standards are overseen at the national level by the Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial (ANSV).

To apply for an Argentine driving licence, you will typically need: your current foreign licence (along with a certified Spanish translation if the original is not in Spanish), your DNI or residency documentation, proof of address in the form of a Certificado de Domicilio, a medical and psychophysical fitness certificate from an approved provider, and payment of the applicable fee. Requirements can vary by municipality, so check with your local Dirección de Tránsito or the ANSV before applying.

How do I sell a car in Argentina?

Selling a vehicle in Argentina requires completing a formal ownership transfer — a transferencia — through the DNRPA. Unlike jurisdictions where a private bill of sale and a simple notification to a motor authority closes the transaction, Argentina requires both the buyer and the seller to attend a DNRPA seccional office in person to execute the transfer. This makes the process considerably more formal and time-consuming than many expats will be accustomed to.

As a seller, you will need to arrange a technical inspection of the vehicle, list it for sale, agree on a price with a buyer, complete the ownership transfer, and then cancel the existing insurance policy and road tax obligations. Before completing the sale, the seller should ensure that all outstanding fines, registration charges, and patentes (road taxes) have been paid in full, as unresolved liabilities can obstruct the transfer and may continue to be associated with the vehicle’s record after the sale.

The key documents required to complete a sale include: the original vehicle title (título del automotor), valid identity documents from both parties (DNI or passport and CDI), proof of address, and the signed transfer form — known as formulario 08 for private sales. The declared sale price is used to calculate the DNRPA transfer fee. As noted in the used car section, the DNRPA’s online Estimador tool allows you to obtain a cost estimate for the transfer by entering the licence plate number, the declared sale value, and the seller’s province of residence.

It is important to understand that until the transfer has been formally recorded at the DNRPA, the seller remains the owner of record and retains potential legal liability for the vehicle. The keys should not be handed over until the transfer paperwork has been accepted. On the question of taxes, if the vehicle has appreciated significantly in value — a real possibility in Argentina’s inflationary economic environment — it is worth consulting a local Argentine accountant (contador) about any Bienes Personales (personal assets tax) obligations that may apply. If the vehicle exceeds a certain value, you may be required to include it in a Bienes Personales filing, particularly if you are proceeding with a sale.

What are the ongoing costs and obligations of vehicle ownership in Argentina?

Keeping a vehicle in Argentina involves a number of recurring financial commitments and legal obligations that expats should account for in their household budget from the moment of purchase.

Patente (road tax / vehicle excise duty): Every registered vehicle is liable for a periodic patente — a provincial road tax calculated on the basis of the vehicle’s assessed fiscal value. Rather than a flat annual fee, the patente is determined by the vehicle’s valuation and is generally paid in quarterly or biannual instalments to the relevant provincial revenue authority. The applicable rate differs between provinces; the Buenos Aires Province and the City of Buenos Aires each apply their own schedules. Contact your provincial ARBA (Agencia de Recaudación de Buenos Aires) or its equivalent body in your province for current rates and payment details.

VTV — Verificación Técnica Vehicular (roadworthiness inspection): Argentina operates a compulsory vehicle roadworthiness inspection programme known as the VTV. In purpose it is comparable to the annual MOT test in the UK or the periodic technical inspection (TÜV/ITV) used in Germany and Spain, although the Argentine inspection intervals are determined by vehicle age rather than being uniform. Brand-new vehicles (0 km) are required to undergo their first VTV five years after registration. For vehicles that are ten years old or more, the inspection must be completed every two years — applicable to both private and commercial vehicles. The VTV covers brakes, lights, emissions, tyres, and other safety-critical components. Updated VTV criteria and the 2025 compliance schedule have been confirmed by the Argentine government — consult your local VTV centre for current fees and booking arrangements, as these are administered at the provincial level.

Insurance: Annual renewal of the mandatory Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil is compulsory. The identity windshield sticker associated with your insurance policy expires on 31 December each year and must be renewed within the 30 days immediately preceding that date. Renewal requires verification of the obligatory annual coverage mandated by Law 24.449.

Fuel: Argentina has historically applied government subsidies to fuel prices, though the level of subsidy and the resulting pump prices shift frequently in response to government policy decisions and exchange rate movements. Prices should always be checked at the time of purchase, as they are liable to change with little notice.

Ongoing registration: The vehicle title (título) itself does not need to be renewed annually, but any changes affecting the vehicle — such as a change of address, physical modifications, or the registration of a lien — must be recorded with the DNRPA. Keeping all documentation current avoids complications at the time of any future sale or in the event of an accident or legal dispute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a car in Argentina without permanent residency?

Foreigners who can provide proof of temporary residence and who are in compliance with tax requirements are entitled to buy or sell a vehicle in Argentina. However, it is not legal for someone to buy a new car as a tourist without any residency status. At minimum, you will need a CDI (tax identification number for non-residents) from AFIP and a Certificado de Domicilio. Confirm current requirements with AFIP and your local DNRPA seccional.

What is a CDI and how do I get one?

The CDI — ‘clave de identificación’ — is a tax ID number for non-residents, obtained from your local AFIP office, the Argentine revenue service. It is required for vehicle purchases and many other financial transactions in Argentina. You will need your passport and proof of address to apply. Visit afip.gob.ar or an AFIP office for current application procedures.

Can I take a car I buy in Argentina out of the country?

Unless you have residency in Argentina, you cannot leave the country with an automobile you have purchased there. An exception would be if the car is nationalised in another country, but this carries additional stipulations depending on the car’s country of origin. Temporary border crossings into neighbouring countries (e.g. Uruguay or Chile) with your Argentine-registered vehicle may be possible with the appropriate permits — consult Argentine customs (DGA) for current rules.

How long does vehicle registration take in Argentina?

Registration timelines vary significantly by DNRPA seccional office and the complexity of the transaction. For a new vehicle purchased through a dealership, the dealer typically handles the initial paperwork and the process can take several weeks. Private transfers and imported vehicle registrations tend to take longer given the additional documentation involved. There is no guarantee of how long these separate processes will take or cost. Plan for delays and follow up proactively with your seccional office.

Is it worth importing a car to Argentina?

For most expats, importing a car is not economically advisable. Vehicles valued above US$15,000 attract estimated total costs of approximately 80 to 100 percent of the vehicle’s value, including tax and freight. This means a US$25,000 car could cost you an additional US$20,000–25,000 to import. In most cases, buying locally is significantly more cost-effective. Always obtain a current estimate from a licensed customs broker before proceeding.

Do I need to retake my driving test to get an Argentine licence?

Unless you hold a Spanish or Italian driver’s licence, you will generally have to retake both the theoretical exam and the practical exam in Argentina to get a local licence. The theory exam is available in Spanish only, so some preparation — and potentially a Spanish tutor — may be needed. Contact the Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial (ANSV) or your local Dirección de Tránsito for current procedures.

What is the VTV and how often is it required?

The VTV (Verificación Técnica Vehicular) is Argentina’s mandatory vehicle roadworthiness inspection — similar in concept to a periodic safety and emissions check found in many countries. New vehicles must undergo their first VTV five years after registration, and vehicles aged ten years or older must be verified every two years. Fees and booking procedures are managed at the provincial level and are subject to change — check with your local VTV station for current costs (as of 2025).

What taxes might apply when I sell a car in Argentina?

If the vehicle is over a certain value, you may have to file Bienes Personales (personal assets tax), especially if you want to sell it. Argentina’s personal assets tax applies to high-value assets held by residents. The specific thresholds and rates change regularly with government policy — consult a local Argentine accountant (contador) or AFIP directly at afip.gob.ar for current obligations before completing any sale.