The new driver licence changes in Venezuela have officially taken effect as of February 1, 2026, marking a total shift in how you hit the road. If you are a driver in Venezuela, the days of the old plastic card are over. The National Institute of Land Transportation has launched a high tech system that uses chips and QR codes to track every driver in real time. This reform is not just a simple update; it is a move to stop fraud and make the streets safer for everyone. Whether you are renewing your current permit or applying for the first time, you must follow the new rules to avoid losing your right to drive this year.
Table of Contents
The Science Behind The New Polycarbonate Document
The government has replaced the old materials with a seven layer polycarbonate card that is almost impossible to destroy or fake. This new document is designed to last for years and includes security features that only show up under special ultraviolet light. By using international standards, the new driver licence is now much more professional and reliable. This high durability means you will not have to worry about your card getting damaged by heat or water during your daily commute.
Why The Points System Is The Biggest Change For Drivers
For the first time, Venezuela is using a mandatory points system to encourage better behavior on the road. Every driver starts with a full balance of 20 points, but these can be taken away quickly if you break the traffic laws. If you lose all your points, your licence will be suspended immediately. This system makes it much harder for reckless drivers to stay on the road without facing the consequences of their actions.
Venezuela Driver Licence Points Deductions 2026
| Type of Violation | Points Subtracted | Possible Fine Amount |
| Minor Foul (Illegal Parking) | 1 to 2 Points | $25 to $50 |
| Serious Foul (Speeding) | 5 Points | $100 to $200 |
| Very Serious (Reckless Driving) | 8 to 12 Points | Up to $500 |
| Critical (Drunk Driving) | 20 Points | License Revoked |
New Mandatory Evaluations For Every Applicant
To get your hands on the 2026 edition of the licence, you must pass a series of new tests that are much more difficult than before. The goal is to ensure that only those who are truly capable of handling a vehicle are allowed to drive. Here are the main things you will need to complete during the application process:
- A digital road medical certificate from an authorized center.
- A psychotechnical test to check your coordination and reflexes.
- An advanced practical driving test that includes emergency maneuvers.
- A biometric capture of your fingerprints and a high resolution photo.
How To Request Your Digital Profile On The Portal
The entire process now begins on the official transport portal, which helps to cut out the long lines and middle men. You must create a digital profile and upload your current identification documents before you can even book a test. Once your profile is active, you can pay for the procedure through the new digital recharge system. After you pass your exams, you can choose to have a physical card printed or simply carry the digital version on your phone, which is now considered legally valid by all traffic officers.
Professional Standards For Heavy Vehicles
If you drive for a living, the rules are even more strict this year. Public transport and cargo drivers must now complete specialized annual courses to keep their licences active. These categories have been reorganized to focus on the weight and type of the vehicle, ensuring that heavy trucks are only operated by those with the highest level of training. This focus on professional standards is a major part of the 2026 safety plan to reduce accidents involving large vehicles across the country.
