Colombia’s New Traffic Code: What Drivers and Expats Need to Know

Colombia's new traffic code promises changes for drivers and expats, but it is still a draft order, not a law. President Abelardo de la Espriella instructed the government to draft the bill, which will be written by Transport Minister Elsa Noguera. The draft includes reduced fines by up to 50%, cheaper driving licences with longer validity, lower prices for discount courses for offenders, and reduced fees for tow-trucks and impound lots.

The main target is the camera enforcement system, known as fotomultas, which has become unpopular among Colombians and city halls. Critics estimate that around 751 cameras issued 1.4 million fotomultas in three years, but this figure has not been audited. An investigation is examining over 7.5 million camera-issued fines, and about 5.8 million remain unpaid, which could be cancelled depending on the investigation's findings.

However, no cancellation mechanism exists yet, so all unpaid fines remain valid and enforceable. City halls collected about COP 11.9 trillion in traffic fines over two decades through December 2024, with COP 3.96 trillion coming through the SIMIT system and COP 7.94 trillion collected directly. City halls expect to fight the reform in Congress, as the revenue generated from fines is significant.

The reform's impact on traffic behavior and revenue collection is a subject of debate, with proponents arguing that cameras change behaviour and reduce accidents, while opponents claim that cameras are revenue-generating devices poorly sited and contracted. Until a law is signed, current fines and fees remain in force. Drivers are advised to check their status on SIMIT, as unpaid fines can surface during licence renewal, vehicle sales, or traffic stops.

Those driving foreign-plated cars or renting regularly should be aware that rental agencies pass fines through with administrative fees, potentially doubling the cost. The practical calendar for the changes is simple: the draft code will be presented to Congress, where city halls will lobby hard for their revenue. The Rio Times will track the bill's progress.