Before you start your road trip, it’s a good idea to have some driving tips for Argentina. We’ve put together this guide with rules and regulations, speed limits, and other things you should know so you’re fully prepared to hit the road in your rental car in Argentina.
Rules and Regulations
- Drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
- Seat belts must be worn by all occupants in the car. Children who are too small to use seatbelts must be transported in a correctly fitted child seat.
- Children under the age of 10 have to sit in the back of the car. The blood alcohol limit for drunk driving is 0.05%.
- The use of dipped headlights is mandatory 24 hours per day on highways and main roads.
- Mobile phones can only be used with a hands-free system.
- Vehicles can only be parked in the direction of traffic flow. It is illegal to park a vehicle facing opposing traffic.
- In towns, intersections without traffic lights or signs function like four-way stops: a car approaching from your right has right of way.
- On main roads, left-hand turns are not allowed unless specifically stated.
- In the event of an accident, stay near your car until the police come.
Speed Limits
These are the general speed limits for a car without a trailer. Changes to the speed limit will be signposted.
| Within city limits | 40-60 kph (25-37 mph) |
| On motorways outside cities | 100-120 kph (62-75 mph) |
What to Bring Along
- An international driver’s permit (IDP).
- Car insurance documents.
- Passport.
- Two safety triangles with reflective surfaces.
- First aid kit.
- Fire extinguisher inside the vehicle.
- A good road map of Argentina to supplement your GPS.
Additional Information
- Be extra cautious when driving at night as road users and roads have little or no lights.
- Road conditions in Argentina are generally good but there are some gravel and dirt roads off the main roads, particularly in the south.
- Many highways only have one lane in each direction, with autopistas (freeways) having two to three lanes connecting major cities.
- It is advised that all doors are locked and windows closed when driving through cities especially at night time and when stopping at junctions.
- In rural areas, you should drive carefully in case there are any potholes or rocks in the road.
- Make sure you park your car in a well-lit area.
- There are toll roads on most of the main highways because many are privately owned. Check maps and local information before you go.
- SIXT has branches in most major cities in Argentina including, Buenos Aires, Cordona, and Mendoza.
