I am in total agreement with Cholo who understands the importance of having a valid driving license while motoring South America.

As permanent foreign residents (Spanish and USA) of Argentina, we, xfiltrate and I, applied for Argentine motorcycle licenses. Argentina requires testing of eyes, hearing, dexterity and answering several health related questions - a rather complete physical, done on the spot. With a valid foreign license, we were required only to take a multiple choice exam - that did require some study of street signs, traffic rules etc. One English version of the exam was available. There are various exams.

I cannot impress upon readers the urgency and importance of having a valid driving license in South America. A valid foreign license accompanied by an international driving permit available via your local Automobile Club and possibly through an Automobile Club in various South American countries is mandatory, or you will be operating a motor vehicle illegally and thus voiding vehicle insurance policies. This means no "get out of jail free" card/bail if that is where you end up. And, no payout of awarded liabilities.

szaman, if/when in Argentina, you might try presenting your Polish license because Poland is a member of EU with universal DL standards that describe which vehicles you can legally operate. Not sure, but your license might include small motorcycles? With the valid Polish license you hold, you might qualify to be tested and receive an Argentine driving license if you pass.

Your English is excellent, so I suppose you have an ability with languages so studying for the Argentine test - with the help of friends - should not be a problem. Best of luck rosa del desierto

do you think this case be done without residency?

and can this be done outside of buenos aires? i am planning to be in jujuy and salta, but i'm afraid there aren't any bigger cities in the area. the nearest would be córdoba, i think.

thanks, i will try that. language won't be a problem as i am fluent in spanish.

szaman, I know at least one tourist (USA) having entered into Argentina on a 3 month tourist visa has passed the test and received an Argentine Driving License. He presented a Domicilio.

If this is true for all tourists I do not know, but having a Domicilio or certified residence address in Argentina might help. A Domiciio can be secured from the local police of the neighborhood where you temporarily reside - it can even be a hotel! You simply go to the police station explain you need a Domicilio and they will explain that the next day or two a police officer will show up at your address and ask for you. If you are there, he/she will verify this and the next day you can pick up your Domicilio at the police station.

Having a domicilio is also necessary for a tourist to legally purchase a motorcycle in Argentina.... you might want to check my web site listed below for more on buying in Argentina. www.Xfiltrate.com - Professional Motorcycle Parking

I am sure you can find an official Argentine web site listing all the places you can take a test for a driving license. I will check for you later or tomorrow.

Suerte, rosa del desierto