Chile – Buying or Importing a Car

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

Chile is widely regarded as one of the more straightforward countries in the world when it comes to purchasing a vehicle as a foreign national. The administrative barriers are relatively few — however, there is one absolute prerequisite: before you can legally buy and register a vehicle in Chile, you must possess a Chilean tax identification number called a RUT (Rol Único Tributario).

The RUT is a unique Chilean tax number administered by the country’s tax authority, the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII). Non-residents and tourists wishing to make a significant purchase — such as a car or property — can apply for a standalone RUT as a foreign national. In function, it is similar to a Tax File Number in Australia or a PPS number in Ireland: it serves as the gateway through which all meaningful financial transactions are conducted.

Tourists — meaning foreigners who are in Chile without a visa — may only obtain a RUT if they designate a legal representative (representante legal) through a notarised power of attorney. This representative may be either a Chilean citizen or a foreigner holding a valid visa in Chile. Expats who already have a temporary or permanent residency visa will automatically be assigned a RUN/RUT during the residency registration process, which makes this step considerably simpler.

When buying a new vehicle from an authorised dealership, you will typically need to provide your RUT, your passport or national identity document, proof of your address in Chile, and, where applicable, your residency permit. One of the advantages of purchasing through an established dealership is that the retailer generally manages the entire administrative process — drafting the purchase agreement, arranging notarisation, and submitting the registration paperwork.

Cash payment is a common choice among foreign buyers, though carrying large sums of money carries obvious risks. An alternative widely used in Chile is the vale vista, one of the most secure payment methods available. To obtain one, you visit a bank and request that the amount be issued as a vale vista, either drawn against your account balance or deposited in cash at the counter. Financing through Chilean banks tends to be difficult for non-residents or recent arrivals, as lenders typically require a demonstrated local credit history. For up-to-date lending criteria, contact Chilean banks directly or consult the Comisión para el Mercado Financiero (CMF), Chile’s financial sector regulator.

How do I buy a used car in Chile?

Chile has a well-established second-hand vehicle market. Private sellers and dealers advertise their stock on platforms such as Chileautos, DeMotores, and Facebook Marketplace. As with new purchases, you must have your RUT in place before any ownership transfer can be completed. You should also ensure that any vehicle you consider is registered in Chile — foreign-plated vehicles cannot be re-registered locally.

Before agreeing to buy any used vehicle, there are several important checks to carry out. The most critical official document to obtain is the Certificado de Inscripción y Anotaciones Vigentes (CAV). Issued by the Registro Civil (Civil Registry), this certificate contains the vehicle’s complete official record — including its type, make, model, year, registration number, current and previous owners, and any encumbrances or restrictions on the title. You only need the licence plate number to request it, and it can be obtained online through the Registro Civil e Identificación website.

You should also obtain the Certificado de Multas Impagas. This document, also issued by the Registro Civil, sets out any outstanding fines registered against the vehicle. Unpaid fines typically transfer with ownership, so this check should never be skipped. Additionally, verify that the seller’s Padrón (proof of ownership) is in their name, or that they hold a valid Poder (power of attorney) authorising them to sell on behalf of the registered owner.

The sale itself must be formalised at a Notaría (notary office). The notary prepares the required documents, which both buyer and seller must sign and provide fingerprints for. Once signed, the notary forwards the contract to the Registro Civil, which updates the Padrón to reflect the new owner. It is important to note that both the Certificado de Multas and the Certificado de Anotaciones must be dated on the same day as the notarised transfer. Before signing anything, carefully check all documents for errors in names or addresses — mistakes can lead to serious complications further down the line.

After completing the sale, expect a wait of approximately three to four weeks before the Permiso de Circulación (circulation permit) is issued in your name. Once this period has elapsed, you can attend any Registro Civil office in Chile to collect your Padrón.

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

Importing a vehicle into Chile is governed by strict regulations, and the options open to you depend substantially on your personal circumstances and the vehicle’s status. As Chile drives on the right, only left-hand-drive vehicles may be used on public roads. The importation of brand-new cars is permitted through standard import channels, subject to all applicable duties and taxes. The rules for used vehicles, however, are far more restrictive.

With the exception of temporary admission and repatriation provisions, there is no legal route to import a used vehicle into Chile. This prohibition covers online purchases, auction acquisitions, private shipments, and informal import arrangements. This represents a significant departure from the approach taken in many other nations, where individuals may import used vehicles with relative ease.

A specific exception does exist for people returning to Chile after living abroad. Chilean nationals who have been resident overseas for 18 months or more may bring a single used vehicle into the country under the benefit established in Tariff Item 00.33 of the National Customs Tariff. To qualify, the vehicle must have been purchased at least six months before the owner’s return; it must be fitted with a three-way catalytic converter and comply with Chilean emissions and safety standards; and it must belong to an approved category, which includes family cars, SUVs, 4×4s, motorhomes, and light goods vehicles.

The step-by-step process for importing a vehicle under the repatriation benefit is as follows:

1. Confirm eligibility: Verify that you satisfy the overseas residency requirement and that your vehicle meets all technical and environmental standards required by Chilean authorities.
2. Purchase and document the vehicle: Gather all legal documentation for the vehicle, including the invoice, title, and ownership history.
3. Arrange international shipping: Organise international transport — either Ro-Ro or container — and obtain marine insurance for the journey.
4. Prepare export documentation: Secure all export paperwork required in the country of origin, including proof of ownership and export clearance certificates.
5. Complete customs clearance in Chile: Present yourself at the Chilean Customs Office and submit the “Application for Benefit under Tariff Item 00.33 of the National Customs Tariff,” together with supporting documents including a notarised declaration of permanent residence in Chile. Engaging a licensed customs broker (agente de aduanas) is strongly advisable.
6. Pay all applicable duties and taxes: This benefit does not exempt you from duties and taxes — a 6% ad valorem rate plus 19% VAT remain payable, along with port charges and customs service fees (as of 2025).
7. Pass technical inspection: Submit the vehicle for inspection to confirm it meets Chilean safety and emissions regulations.
8. Obtain SOAP and circulation permit: Purchase SOAP insurance, obtain a technical inspection certificate, and apply for the annual circulation permit.

The principal authorities responsible for vehicle imports are the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (Chilean Customs Service) and the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII). Always verify current requirements directly with these bodies before initiating any shipment, as regulations are subject to change.

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

Importing a vehicle to Chile entails several distinct layers of cost, and prospective importers should budget carefully for all of them. The main figures are set out below (as of 2025 — confirm current rates with the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas before proceeding):

VAT, referred to locally as Impuesto al Valor Agregado (IVA), is charged at 19% and is applied to the combined total of the CIF value and the calculated customs duty (as of 2025). Chile uses the CIF method for calculating duties, which means import taxes are assessed on the total value of the goods inclusive of freight and insurance costs. This detail frequently catches importers off guard, particularly those accustomed to systems that tax only the purchase price of the goods themselves.

Certain high-value vehicles — classified as luxury items under Chilean tax law — are subject to an additional sales tax of between 10% and 50% on top of standard duty and VAT (as of 2025). If the vehicle you intend to import falls within a luxury category as defined by the SII, you should confirm the applicable surcharge with that authority before committing to the purchase.

Chile’s extensive network of free trade agreements (FTAs) means that reduced or zero-rate customs duties are available for vehicles originating from partner countries, including the USA, EU member states, Canada, Mexico, and South Korea. Under an applicable FTA, the standard 6% ad valorem duty may be substantially reduced or eliminated entirely. Check current FTA rates for the specific country of origin with the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas. Beyond taxes and duties, you should also factor in international shipping costs — Ro-Ro shipping is generally the most economical method for vehicles — marine insurance, port storage if the vehicle arrives before you do, and the cost of any modifications required to bring the vehicle into compliance with Chilean safety and emissions standards.

How do I register a vehicle in Chile?

Vehicle registration in Chile falls under the responsibility of the Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación (Civil Registry and Identification Service). Whether you have bought a vehicle locally or imported one after clearing customs, the Civil Registry is the authority that maintains the official ownership record — known as the Padrón.

For vehicles bought within Chile, the notary who oversees the sale contract typically submits the transfer documentation to the Civil Registry on your behalf. The notary sends the signed contract through to the Registro Civil, which updates the Padrón to reflect the new owner’s details. This process takes roughly three to four weeks, after which you may attend any Registro Civil office to collect your Padrón.

Before full registration can be completed and a circulation permit issued, the vehicle must pass a revisión técnica (technical roadworthiness inspection). To obtain the Permiso de Circulación (circulation permit), you must present the vehicle registration, a valid technical inspection certificate, and current SOAP insurance. For recently imported vehicles, you will also need to provide the customs import declaration and any associated clearance documentation to the Civil Registry as part of the registration procedure.

At the point of transfer or first registration, the buyer is liable for a transfer tax of approximately 1.5% of the vehicle’s value, plus associated administrative fees (as of 2025). Always confirm current figures with the Civil Registry or your notary, as these amounts may be updated. The Registro Civil website provides online tools for querying vehicle status and managing certain registration processes.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Chile?

Chile’s compulsory insurance framework differs markedly from the third-party liability or comprehensive models used in most other countries. Every vehicle registered and operated in Chile is required by law to carry SOAP (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes Personales) — a mandatory personal accident insurance policy.

SOAP is required under Chilean traffic legislation. All vehicle owners must renew it annually, and it provides cover for death and physical injuries arising directly from road accidents caused by the insured vehicle. The policy extends to the driver, any passengers, and any other person — including pedestrians — affected by the accident. A crucial limitation to understand is that SOAP covers personal injury and medical costs only, not damage to property. This means SOAP alone will not protect you against the cost of damage to another vehicle or to third-party property — for that level of cover, a separate voluntary policy is essential.

SOAP is purchased during March and is tied to the vehicle rather than the driver. It can be taken out through various banks and financial institutions. SOAP is also a prerequisite for obtaining the annual circulation permit. Foreign-plated vehicles entering Chile on a temporary basis must obtain SOAPEX — the equivalent compulsory cover for vehicles registered abroad.

To obtain broader protection — covering third-party property damage, theft, or comprehensive risks — a voluntary private insurance policy must be purchased separately from a private insurer. The insurance market in Chile is competitive, and a range of products are available. For oversight and regulatory information on insurance in Chile, consult the Comisión para el Mercado Financiero (CMF), which supervises the insurance sector. Foreign no-claims history is generally not formally recognised by Chilean insurers, so newly arrived expats may find premiums relatively high at first; it is worth obtaining multiple quotes and presenting documented claims history to prospective insurers.

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

The requirements around driving licences in Chile vary according to your residency status. Short-term visitors and tourists are generally permitted to drive using a valid licence issued in their home country. Carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national licence is recommended, as it provides a standardised translation of your licence details and can be helpful when dealing with police or insurers.

Anyone who becomes a resident in Chile is required to obtain a Chilean driving licence. Continuing to drive on a foreign licence after establishing residency may render your insurance invalid in the event of a serious accident, and residents must complete the full Chilean licensing process — including theory, medical, and practical examinations. This is an important distinction: unlike some countries that offer simplified licence exchange procedures, Chile generally requires foreign nationals to sit the full test.

Insurance providers may invoke the absence of a valid Chilean licence as grounds for refusing claims, particularly in serious accidents involving injury or death. For this reason alone, obtaining a Chilean licence should be treated as a priority for anyone intending to settle in the country long-term.

Chile does maintain limited driving licence exchange agreements with certain countries, and the details of these arrangements vary. You should check with your local Chilean consulate or the relevant municipality to find out what applies in your specific case. Where an exchange agreement is in place, it may allow you to convert your foreign licence without sitting a full practical test — but this must be confirmed with the appropriate municipal authority (municipalidad), since driving licences in Chile are issued at the municipal level.

To apply for a Chilean driving licence, contact your local municipalidad. The national road safety authority CONASET (Comisión Nacional de Seguridad de Tránsito) provides guidance on traffic regulations, and current licence procedures can be confirmed through the relevant municipal office. The theory examination is currently administered through the Nexteo system, managed by CONASET, with questions based on current Chilean traffic law (as of 2025).

How do I sell a car in Chile?

Selling a vehicle in Chile follows a defined process involving the notary and Civil Registry systems. Prior to advertising a vehicle for sale, the seller should ensure all annual obligations are current: SOAP insurance must be valid, the revisión técnica (roadworthiness inspection) must be up to date, and the Permiso de Circulación (circulation permit and road tax) must have been paid. Both the road tax and SOAP are covered through to 31 March each year.

On the day of the sale, the seller must obtain both the Certificado de Inscripción y Anotaciones Vigentes (vehicle registration and history certificate) and the Certificado de Multas Impagas (outstanding fines certificate). The Padrón (proof of ownership) must be in the seller’s name, or they must hold a valid Poder (power of attorney) authorising them to sell the vehicle on behalf of its registered owner.

The sale agreement (compraventa) is drafted and executed at a notary office. Both buyer and seller must sign the documents and provide fingerprints. The notary then submits the ownership transfer to the Registro Civil for updating. Until the transfer is confirmed in the Civil Registry, the seller remains the legal registered owner. It is therefore advisable for the seller to retain a copy of the signed notarial contract as evidence that the sale has taken place, and to follow up to confirm that the registry has been updated accordingly.

For most private individuals selling a vehicle held for personal use, the transaction will not give rise to capital gains tax under standard Chilean tax rules — though this depends on how frequently vehicles are sold and whether the activity constitutes a commercial undertaking. If you sell vehicles with any regularity or as part of a business, different rules apply. Consult the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII) or a local tax professional for advice tailored to your circumstances.

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

Owning a vehicle in Chile involves a number of recurring annual obligations. Unlike some countries where road tax and vehicle safety inspections are handled through entirely separate processes, Chile’s system bundles several of these requirements into a single renewal cycle centred on March each year.

Permiso de Circulación (Circulation Permit / Road Tax): The Permiso de Circulación is an annual tax that all vehicles must pay in order to use public roads in Chile. It is payable to the relevant municipality during February and March and can be paid online through municipal websites. The amount due varies according to the vehicle’s age, type, and assessed fiscal value. In broad terms, it is equivalent to annual vehicle excise duty as it operates in other countries, though administered at the local rather than national level.

SOAP Insurance: SOAP is a mandatory annual insurance obligation for all vehicles in Chile, with the payment deadline for all vehicles falling on 31 March each year. SOAP prices can differ considerably between providers for the same vehicle, so it is worth comparing quotes through bank and insurance websites before purchasing.

Revisión Técnica (Annual Technical Inspection): The revisión técnica is required once a year, and the month in which it falls due is determined by the last digit of the vehicle’s registration plate. The concept is broadly comparable to the annual MOT test used in the United Kingdom and Ireland, or the periodic roadworthiness inspections required across much of Europe. If you have missed your designated month, December and March are open months during which any vehicle may attend for inspection. The cost of the technical inspection varies depending on the vehicle type and the inspection centre used.

Once you own a car in Chile, all three documents — revisión técnica, SOAP, and Permiso de Circulación — must be renewed each year. Driving with out-of-date documentation is unlawful and can also create problems when you come to sell the vehicle. Keeping all three current is therefore both a legal requirement and a practical necessity. The Registro Civil and your local municipalidad are the key points of contact for queries about registration and permit renewals.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a car in Chile as a tourist without a residency visa?

Yes, though there is an important condition: tourists — foreigners who are present in Chile without a visa — may only obtain a RUT (the tax identification number required for any vehicle purchase) if they designate a legal representative through a notarised power of attorney. That representative may be a Chilean national or a foreigner holding a valid visa in Chile. Once a RUT has been issued, you can proceed with buying and registering a vehicle.

How long does it take to receive the vehicle ownership document (Padrón) after buying a car?

Following the notarised sale, you should allow approximately three to four weeks before the Permiso de Circulación and Padrón are processed and issued in your name. After that point, you can collect your Padrón from any Registro Civil office anywhere in Chile.

Can I import a used car to Chile when I relocate there?

Outside of temporary admission and repatriation provisions, there are no legal channels through which used vehicles can be imported into Chile. The repatriation benefit under Tariff Item 00.33 is specifically designed for Chilean nationals returning from at least 18 months abroad. Non-citizens relocating to Chile are generally unable to import a used vehicle and should expect to purchase one locally. Always confirm the current position with the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas before making any arrangements.

What taxes apply when I import a new car into Chile?

Duties and taxes are payable as follows: 6% ad valorem import duty plus 19% VAT (IVA), along with port charges and customs service fees (as of 2025). High-value vehicles may be subject to an additional luxury surcharge. If the vehicle originates from a country with which Chile has a free trade agreement, the 6% duty may be reduced or waived entirely. Always verify current rates with the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas and the SII.

Does my foreign driving licence allow me to drive in Chile?

Tourists and short-term visitors can generally drive in Chile on the strength of a valid foreign licence. However, once you become a resident, you are required to obtain a Chilean driving licence. Continuing to use a foreign licence as a resident risks having your insurance invalidated in the event of a serious accident. Obtaining a Chilean licence through your local municipalidad should be a priority as soon as you establish residency.

What is SOAP insurance and is it the only insurance I need?

SOAP is the compulsory personal accident insurance that every vehicle owner in Chile must hold. It covers personal injury and medical costs arising from road accidents but does not extend to property damage. It represents the legal minimum required, not a comprehensive solution. To protect yourself against damage to other vehicles or third-party property, you will need to purchase a separate voluntary insurance policy from a licensed private insurer. For regulatory guidance, consult the CMF.

How often do I need to have my car inspected in Chile?

The revisión técnica (technical roadworthiness inspection) is required annually, and the month in which it falls due is dictated by the last digit of the vehicle’s registration plate. Allowing this certificate to lapse makes it illegal to drive the vehicle and will block the renewal of your annual circulation permit. Current schedules and approved inspection centres can be found through your local municipality or via the Registro Civil.

What should I check before buying a used car in Chile?

Before committing to any second-hand vehicle purchase, obtain the Certificado de Inscripción y Anotaciones Vigentes (CAV) from the Registro Civil to confirm ownership and identify any encumbrances, and the Certificado de Multas Impagas to ensure there are no outstanding fines attached to the vehicle. Both certificates must be dated on the same day as the notarised transfer. Also verify that the revisión técnica and SOAP are valid and that the Permiso de Circulación has been paid up to date.