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Vehicle inspection renewal in Colombia

How to renew a vehicle inspection — how it works anywhere

Written from published rules on 2 September 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Ministerio de Transporte (Ministry of Transport).

Renewing a vehicle inspection in Colombia, known as the 'Revisión Técnico-Mecánica y de Emisiones Contaminantes,' involves a mandatory technical assessment of a vehicle's mechanical and emissions status. This process ensures the vehicle meets national safety and environmental standards to remain legally eligible for operation on public roads.

Your timing

It is standard practice to begin the inspection process at least 15 to 30 days before the current certificate expires. This allows time to address any potential mechanical repairs identified during the inspection without risking a period where the vehicle is illegal to drive.

Start 30 days ahead

Inspection centers can experience high demand, and repairs may be required if a vehicle fails the initial assessment.

The process

  1. 1Locate a certified 'Centro de Diagnóstico Automotor' (CDA) authorized by the Ministry of Transport.
  2. 2Schedule an appointment with the chosen CDA, if required by their internal policy.
  3. 3Present the vehicle at the facility for the technical and emissions inspection.
  4. 4Pay the inspection fee at the center.
  5. 5Obtain the official certificate, which is uploaded to the RUNT (Registro Único Nacional de Tránsito) system upon passing.

What to bring

  • Valid SOAT (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Tránsito)
  • Vehicle registration card (Licencia de Tránsito)
  • Previous inspection certificate (if applicable)

Who handles it

Ministerio de Transporte (Ministry of Transport)

https://www.mintransporte.gov.co/

Fees vary significantly depending on the type of vehicle (motorcycle, light vehicle, or heavy vehicle) and the specific CDA; verify current pricing directly with the chosen inspection center.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure the chosen CDA is officially accredited by the ONAC (Organismo Nacional de Acreditación de Colombia).
  • Confirm that the vehicle's SOAT is valid, as it is a prerequisite for the inspection.
  • Verify that the certificate has been correctly registered in the RUNT database before leaving the facility.

Sources

Don't rely on remembering

Renewals here take about 30 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.

Track my Vehicle inspection

Other documents in Colombia

Vehicle inspection renewal in other countries

Often renewed together