Driving licence renewal in Guatemala
How to renew a driving licence — how it works anywhere
Renewing a Guatemalan driving licence requires completing a vision test, providing proof of identification, and paying the applicable fees through an authorized service provider. The process is handled by a contracted entity overseen by the national transit authority.
It is standard practice to begin the renewal process at least 30 days before the current licence expires. This accounts for potential wait times at authorized centres and the time required to complete the mandatory vision screening.
Start 30 days ahead
Processing is generally immediate once documentation is verified and the vision test is passed, but appointment availability at physical service points can fluctuate.
The process
- 1Verify the status of the current licence and ensure there are no outstanding traffic fines through the official Department of Traffic portal.
- 2Schedule an appointment or visit an authorized 'Maycom' service center, which is the entity currently contracted to handle licence issuance in Guatemala.
- 3Complete the required vision examination at an authorized clinic or onsite at the service center.
- 4Present all required original documentation and proof of payment at the service center.
- 5Submit biometric data, including a photograph and signature, to finalize the request.
What to bring
- Original and a copy of the current driving licence
- Original and a copy of the DPI (Documento Personal de Identificación)
- Proof of payment for the renewal fee
- Certification of the vision test
Who handles it
Departamento de Tránsito de la Dirección General de la Policía Nacional Civil (Department of Traffic of the General Directorate of the National Civil Police)
Fees are set by the government based on the duration of the renewal (1, 2, or 5 years) and should be confirmed directly via the official Maycom or Department of Traffic websites at the time of renewal.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all traffic fines are settled before attempting the renewal, as unpaid fines will prevent the process from moving forward.
- Verify that the DPI is valid, as an expired or damaged identity document will not be accepted.
- Confirm that the vision test certificate is from an authorized practitioner if not completed at the service center.
Sources
- Departamento de Tránsito - Policía Nacional Civil de Guatemala transito.gob.gt
- Maycom - Centro de Emisión de Licencias maycom.com.gt
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.