Colombia Driving License: New Requirements & Changes in 2026

Colombia is implementing significant changes to its driver’s license process, shifting responsibility for theoretical and practical exams from driving schools to certified logistical support centers, known as C.A.L.E. These changes, formalized on September 10, 2025, aim to standardize testing and reduce irregularities in the licensing process.

A New Era for Driver Evaluation

The C.A.L.E. entities are certified by the Ministry of Transporte and will be responsible for administering the final tests required to obtain a driver’s license. This move intends to ensure that only properly trained candidates receive licenses. Applicants seeking a license for the first time will now face a theoretical evaluation by C.A.L.E., practical tests on closed courses and public roads, and biometric identity validation to prevent fraud.

Did You Know? The resolution enacting these changes was issued on September 10, 2025, but implementation will be phased in across the country.

Before appearing for the new exams, applicants must meet several requirements. These include registration in the Registro Único Nacional de Tránsito (RUNT), completion of a full driving course at an authorized CEA, and possession of medical certificates confirming physical, psychometric, and mental fitness. Applicants will also be required to pay all associated fees, including exam costs and contributions to the road safety fund.

Implementation Timeline and Regional Variation

The implementation of C.A.L.E. will not be immediate nationwide. Each department is responsible for establishing its own centers and securing approval from the Ministry of Transporte. Organisms of transit have up to 24 months to implement the CALE system within their jurisdiction.

Changes for Senior Drivers

Alongside the new licensing process, regulations are also changing for drivers over the age of 65 seeking to renew their licenses. These drivers will now be required to demonstrate their physical, mental, and motor coordination skills through a medical examination conducted at an authorized Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores (CRC).

Expert Insight: The shift to centralized testing and stricter medical evaluations represents a significant effort to enhance road safety standards and ensure that all licensed drivers meet a consistent level of competence. This could lead to a decrease in accidents caused by inadequate driver training or medical conditions.

In addition to the CRC medical certificate, drivers over 65 must also be registered in the RUNT, present valid original identification, and have a clear record of traffic fines – either through payment or an active payment agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of C.A.L.E.?

C.A.L.E. are entities certified by the Ministry of Transporte created to administer the final tests for obtaining a driver’s license, aiming to guarantee that only qualified candidates are licensed and to eliminate irregularities.

What medical certifications are required for a new license?

Applicants must have certificates of aptitud física, psicosensométrica, and mental.

What additional requirements apply to drivers over 65 renewing their licenses?

Drivers over 65 must present a medical certificate from a Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores (CRC) confirming their physical, mental, and motor coordination skills, along with proof of RUNT registration, valid identification, and a clear record of traffic fines.

How these changes will impact the number of licensed drivers and overall road safety in Colombia remains to be seen, but a phased rollout suggests a careful approach to managing the transition.