ArgentinaArgentina
Traffic rules
Argentina
1. Argentina
Argentina stretches along the southern part of South America, from the subtropical north to Patagonia, with the Andes forming much of its western border with Chile. Traffic drives on the right. Long distances are a defining feature of driving in the country, with routes crossing the Pampas, arid regions and sparsely populated areas of Patagonia. In the Andes and southern provinces, snow and ice can affect roads and mountain passes during winter, and carrying or fitting snow chains can become compulsory on designated routes.
Argentina's National Traffic Law provides a common framework for road rules, although provinces and municipalities can have additional or different local requirements. There is no nationwide vignette; selected highways and routes charge tolls, with TelePASE increasingly used as Argentina moves toward automatic and free-flow toll collection. On national routes, dipped headlights or daytime running lights must remain on during the day as well as at night. Written traffic information is primarily in Spanish.
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What is the alcohol limit for drivers in Argentina?
Under the National Traffic Law, Argentina has a zero-alcohol rule: 0.0. Driving any type of vehicle with an alcohol concentration above zero is prohibited where the national law applies. Provincial and local legislation should also be checked because traffic-law jurisdiction is decentralized.
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in Argentina?
Urban streets: Under the National Traffic Law, the general maximum on urban streets is 40 km/h, unless another limit is posted.
Urban avenues: The national general maximum on urban avenues is 60 km/h, subject to locally posted or jurisdiction-specific limits.
Rural roads: For motorcycles, cars and light utility vehicles, the national maximum in rural areas is generally 110 km/h. Lower limits apply to buses, trucks and certain other vehicle classes.
Semi-motorways: Cars and motorcycles may generally travel at up to 120 km/h on a semiautopista under the National Traffic Law, unless a lower limit is posted.
Motorways: For cars and motorcycles, the national maximum on an autopista is generally 130 km/h. Local motorway limits can be lower; always follow the posted limit.
Special lower limits: Under the national framework, the maximum is 30 km/h at an uncontrolled urban intersection, 20 km/h at an unprotected railway crossing and 20 km/h near schools, sports facilities and other heavily attended places while they are operating. Routes passing through urban areas are generally limited to 60 km/h unless signed otherwise.
Are seat belts compulsory in Argentina?
Yes. All occupants must use the required seat belt in vehicles equipped with them.
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in Argentina?
Under the National Traffic Law, driving while using headphones or communication systems that require continuous manual operation is prohibited. Avoid holding or manually operating a mobile phone while driving, and follow the applicable provincial and local rules.
What safety equipment must a car carry in Argentina?
A motor vehicle must carry a compliant fire extinguisher and portable warning beacons. Motorcycles are exempt from these particular equipment requirements.
Are motorcycle helmets compulsory in Argentina?
Yes. Both the motorcycle rider and passenger must wear an approved helmet.
🔗 argentina.gob.ar • Argentine Government, Traffic Act 24,449, consolidated text
Who has priority at an uncontrolled junction in Argentina?
Under the national Traffic Act, the general rule is to give way to traffic approaching from the right. The Act specifies exceptions, including railway vehicles, emergency vehicles on duty and pedestrians crossing lawfully. Follow signs and the applicable provincial or local rules.
🔗 argentina.gob.ar • Argentine Government, Traffic Act 24,449, consolidated text
