Getting a driver’s license in Guatemala requires completing a course at an authorized driving school (CECOVE) and then processing the license at a Maycom center. If you plan to drive in Guatemala, this is the paperwork you need.
Quick summary: A first-time license costs approximately Q850 total (~$110 USD) including the license fee, driving course, and eye exam. You must be 18 or older, complete a CECOVE driving course (2-3 weeks), and visit a Maycom center with your valid DPI.
Prices verified February 2026. Check our exchange rate page for today’s USD/GTQ rate.
License Types
| Type | Allows Driving | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Type C | Cars up to 3.5 tons | First license (18+ years) |
| Type M | Motorcycles | First license (18+ years) |
| Type B | Medium vehicles | Upgrade from C (23+, 2+ years with C) |
| Type A | Heavy/professional vehicles | Upgrade from C (25+, 3+ years with C) |
| Type E | Road and agricultural machinery | Specific exam |
Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| License — 1 year | Q100 |
| License — 2 years | Q200 |
| License — 3 years | Q290 |
| License — 4 years | Q320 (max for first license) |
| License — 5 years | Q390 (renewal only) |
| Driving course (CECOVE) | ~Q700 |
| Eye exam | ~Q50 |
| Total for first license | ~Q850 |
Requirements — First License (18+)
- Valid DPI (original and copy)
- Digital certificate from authorized driving school (CECOVE)
- Eye exam from a registered optometrist or ophthalmologist
- Original receipt and photocopy of eye exam payment
- Certificate of no pending traffic fines
- Payment receipt from Banrural bank
For Minors (16-17 Years)
- Birth certificate (RENAP, max 6 months old)
- Notarized parental responsibility letter
- Parent/guardian’s DPI (original and copy)
- License issued for 1 year only (Q100)
Requirements — Renewal
- Valid DPI (original and copy)
- Updated eye exam
- Original license (current or expired)
- Certificate of paid fines
- Banrural payment receipt
Step-by-Step Process
- Enroll in an authorized driving school (CECOVE)
- Complete the course — theory and practical driving (2-3 weeks)
- Pass the exam and get your digital certificate
- Get your eye exam at an authorized clinic
- Make the payment at a Banrural branch (inside Maycom or external)
- Visit a Maycom center with all your documentation
- Receive your license
Late Renewal Fines
| Time Expired | Fine |
|---|---|
| 31 days - 1 year | Q50 |
| 1-2 years | Q100 |
| 2-3 years | Q150 |
| 3-4 years | Q200 |
| 4-5 years | Q250 |
| 5+ years | Q300 |
You have 30 days after expiration to renew without a fine.
Maycom Centers
- 5a. Avenida 0-60, zone 2 de Mixco, Colonia Cotio (end of Calzada Roosevelt)
- CC Metronorte, Km 5 Carretera al Atlantico, 2nd level, local 402
- CC Metroplaza
- Departmental offices in main capital cities
From the US (Diaspora Info)
This is one procedure that cannot be handled remotely or through a consulate:
- You must process the license in person in Guatemala — no power of attorney option
- A US driver’s license is accepted for short tourist visits but not for residents
- There is no reciprocity agreement between Guatemala and the US for license exchange
- If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala and need a license, budget 2-3 weeks for the driving course plus the Maycom visit
- Tip: Start the CECOVE course immediately upon arrival if you’re on a time-limited trip
- Once you have your license, check our driving in Guatemala guide for road rules and tips
Tips
- Driving schools must be CECOVE-authorized (Centro de Evaluacion y Competencia Vehicular)
- The eye exam must be from a professional registered with the Transit Department
- Check for pending fines before visiting Maycom
- The driving course takes approximately 2-3 weeks
- You need a valid DPI — if you’re a foreigner, check residency requirements
- Once licensed, read our guide on driving in Guatemala and how to register a vehicle