LegalUpdated 2025-01
How do I get a Paraguayan driver's license?
You need residency (cedula) first. Then take a medical exam, written test, and driving test. Process takes 1-2 days and costs ~$50.
Key Takeaways
- Need cedula (residency) first
- Medical exam + written test + driving test
- Total cost ~$70-115
- Process takes 1-2 days
- Foreign license valid temporarily for tourists
Getting a Paraguayan driver's license requires residency first. Here's the complete process for expats.
Prerequisites
- **Residency**: Must have cedula (Paraguayan ID)
- **Age**: 18 or older
- **No Outstanding Traffic Issues**: Check for any pending fines
Can I Drive with Foreign License?
**Temporarily**: Yes
- International Driving Permit (IDP) works
- Foreign license accepted for tourists
- Generally valid for 90-180 days
**For Residents**: Get local license
- Required after establishing residency
- Needed for vehicle registration in your name
- Insurance may require it
The Process
**Step 1: Gather Documents**
- Cedula (original + copy)
- Valid foreign driver's license
- Passport (original + copy)
- Proof of address
- 2 passport photos
- Blood type card (can get at clinic)
**Step 2: Medical Exam**
- Visit authorized medical center
- Basic vision test
- Blood pressure check
- General fitness evaluation
- Cost: ~$15-25
- Takes: 30-60 minutes
- Results same day
**Step 3: Written Test**
- Traffic rules and signs
- Available in Spanish (some locations English)
- 20-30 questions, need 70% to pass
- Study materials available online
- Cost: Included in license fee
- Can retake if failed
**Step 4: Practical Driving Test**
- Basic driving skills
- Parking, turning, signaling
- Usually straightforward
- Bring your own vehicle (or rent)
- Some locations may waive for experienced foreign license holders
**Step 5: Pay and Receive License**
- License fee: ~$30-50
- Issued same day or next day
- Valid for 5 years
Where to Go
**Asunción**
- Municipalidad de Asunción
- DINATRAN offices
- Department of Transit
Tip: Go early (7-8am) to avoid long lines
Costs Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Medical exam | $15-25 |
| License fee | $30-50 |
| Photos | $5-10 |
| Translations (if needed) | $20-30 |
Total: ~$70-115
License Categories
- **Cat. A**: Motorcycles
- **Cat. B**: Passenger vehicles (most expats)
- **Cat. C**: Trucks
- **Cat. D**: Buses
- **Cat. E**: Special vehicles
Most foreigners get Cat. B.
Tips for Success
- Go with Spanish speaker if limited Spanish
- Arrive early, bring water (can be slow)
- Have all documents plus extras (copies)
- Cash is often easier than card
- Some locations more efficient than others
- Consider hiring tramitador (document processor)
Using a Tramitador
Many expats hire someone to help:
- Handles paperwork and queues
- ~$50-100 extra
- Saves hours of waiting
- Ask lawyer or expat community for referrals
International License Exchange
Some countries have reciprocal agreements:
- May allow direct exchange without tests
- Check current bilateral agreements
- US license usually requires full process
After Getting License
- Keep license with you when driving
- Cedula also required
- Vehicle registration must be current
- Insurance mandatory
- Traffic police checks are common
Sources
Have More Questions?
Explore our comprehensive guides to Paraguay
More Legal Questions
Can Americans buy property in Paraguay?
Yes, Americans can buy property in Paraguay with the same rights as locals. No restrictions on foreign ownership.
Can I work remotely in Paraguay legally?
Yes, remote work for foreign companies is legal and tax-free in Paraguay. No special work permit needed for foreign employment.
Can I bring my pet to Paraguay?
Yes, pets are allowed with proper documentation: health certificate, rabies vaccination, and import permit. Process is straightforward.
How do I ship belongings to Paraguay?
Sea freight is cheapest for large shipments ($2,000-5,000 for container). Air freight for essentials. Import duties apply unless you qualify for exemption.