Driving License Exchange in Argentina

Argentina has reciprocal agreements with some countries for direct license exchange. Most countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, EU) can exchange after establishing residency. Tourists can use valid home license with international permit. The exchange must happen within certain time of residency (varies by province, usually 90 days-1 year).

Valid home country license (not expired), DNI (Argentine national ID), Proof of residency in the jurisdiction where you're applying, Apostilled driving record from home country (sometimes required), Medical certificate including vision test (from authorized center), Passport photos, Application forms, Fees (~$50-100 equivalent in pesos).

1. Get turno (appointment) at local DMV equivalent, 2. Submit documents and pay fees, 3. Medical exam (vision, basic health check), 4. Wait for processing (1-4 weeks), 5. Receive Argentine license. Process varies by province - CABA (Buenos Aires city) is different from Buenos Aires province. Some locations offer same-day service.

You may need to take the Argentine driving test: Written test (in Spanish), Practical driving test, Driving school certificate (sometimes required), Longer process but still doable. Consider hiring a driving school to help navigate the process.

Chaotic but manageable. Aggressive drivers, lots of horn use. Parking is difficult and expensive in central areas. Many one-way streets (mano única). Rush hour (pico) is intense - avoid driving then. Public transit is often faster. Rideshare apps work well. Consider if you really need a car - many expats don't own one.

Cars are expensive due to import restrictions. Used car market is active. Insurance is mandatory (seguro obligatorio) plus recommended comprehensive. Parking in buildings (cochera) costs $100-300/month. Fuel prices fluctuate with exchange rates. Maintenance is affordable.