Colombia Implements New Mandatory Driving Theory Exam Starting September

The Colombian Ministry of Transport has announced a significant update to the national driver's license acquisition process, set to take effect on September 14, 2026. All individuals seeking to obtain or modify their driving credentials will now be required to pass a new, standardized theoretical examination.

This measure is part of a broader government initiative to enhance road safety standards and ensure that all drivers possess a comprehensive understanding of traffic regulations. The exams will be administered by the Logistics Support Centers for Evaluation (CALE), which operate independently from traditional driving schools to maintain impartiality.

Results from these tests will be automatically and directly recorded in the National Single Traffic Registry (RUNT) system to prevent fraud and ensure transparency. By separating the evaluation process from the training process, the government aims to verify knowledge more objectively.

This new requirement represents a major shift in how driving competence is assessed across the country, emphasizing safety and standardized testing as core pillars of the new system.