Cross-border route
Argentina Chile
Argentina 
ChileDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Argentina into Chile, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Chile expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1968 Vienna format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Cristo Redentor (Los Libertadores) tunnel on Route 7 links Mendoza with Santiago.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromArgentina
ToChile
IDP in ChileRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in ChileCLP
Argentina → Chile
Crossing the border
The Cristo Redentor (Los Libertadores) tunnel on Route 7 links Mendoza with Santiago.
Driving rules in Chile
- Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
- 0.03% alcohol limit; criminal above 0.08%.
- Headlights on in tunnels.
- Andean mountain passes may require chains in winter.
What to see when you arrive in Chile
- Torres del Paine National Park
- the Atacama Desert
- Easter Island's moai statues
- the port city of Valparaíso
- the Chilean Lake District
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Argentina to Chile?
Yes — Chile requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Chile recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Argentina and Chile?
No. Both Argentina and Chile drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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