Driving in Panama can be an exciting way to explore the country, from coastal highways to mountain roads. However, visitors coming from the United States should be aware of some key differences in driving rules and road culture.
One of the most notable differences is the use of seat belts. In Panama, front-seat passengers are legally required to wear seat belts, but enforcement for backseat passengers is often inconsistent compared to the strict rules in the U.S.
Speed limits in Panama are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. This means travelers must adjust their sense of speed when transitioning from U.S. roads, where miles per hour are used.
Speeding tickets in Panama can be issued on the spot. Police may stop drivers for minor infractions, and fines are typically paid immediately. This differs from the U.S., where most tickets are mailed or handled through traffic courts.
Roundabouts are common in Panamanian cities and towns. While the concept exists in the U.S., Panamanian drivers may use them differently, sometimes entering without yielding, so foreign drivers must approach cautiously.
Traffic signals are sometimes treated more as suggestions than strict rules, particularly in smaller towns. Drivers from the U.S. may notice that local drivers occasionally run yellow or even red lights, though major city intersections are better enforced.
Passing lanes can be less regulated. On Panamanian two-lane highways, drivers may pass on curves or in areas where visibility is limited, which would be illegal and highly dangerous in the U.S. Drivers should exercise caution.
It is common to see motorcycles and scooters weaving through traffic in Panama. Drivers need to be alert at all times, as these vehicles do not always follow lane rules as strictly as in the United States.
Panama does not always have strict lane markings, especially on rural roads. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and informal lane shifts are common, so maintaining a defensive driving style is important.
Pedestrian behavior is another difference. While U.S. drivers are legally obligated to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, in Panama pedestrians may cross streets unpredictably, often relying on eye contact rather than formal signals.
Traffic signs may also differ. Some signs in Panama are in Spanish only, including warnings, speed limits, and stop signs, so understanding basic Spanish road vocabulary is helpful.
Alcohol laws are enforced, but checkpoints are frequent. The legal blood alcohol limit in Panama is lower than in many U.S. states — 0.05% — and random roadside checks are common.
Seat belt rules also extend to children. Children under 12 should ride in the backseat, and car seats are recommended, though enforcement is less strict than in the U.S. Travelers should bring their own if needed.
Using a horn is culturally different. In Panama, honking is more common and used to signal turns, passing, or awareness, whereas in the U.S. honking is reserved mostly for emergencies.
Toll roads are prevalent, especially around Panama City and the Interamericana highway. Unlike most U.S. states, Panama still uses a mix of cash tolls and electronic systems, so drivers should carry small bills.
Parking regulations can be flexible. In many towns, street parking is informal, and drivers may park in spots that seem unconventional to U.S. drivers. Still, avoiding restricted zones is important to prevent fines or towing.
Drivers must carry official documents at all times: a valid license, vehicle registration, and insurance proof. Foreigners should have an international driving permit or a valid license from their home country.
Right-of-way rules can be different. For example, at uncontrolled intersections, Panamanian drivers may yield based on negotiation and eye contact rather than strictly following U.S. right-of-way laws.
School zones in Panama often have lower speed limits during certain hours, but enforcement may be inconsistent. Drivers must be alert to flashing signs or the presence of children.
Finally, driving in rural Panama can involve unexpected obstacles such as farm animals, potholes, or narrow bridges. Unlike the controlled highways in the U.S., these roads require patience, careful attention, and local knowledge.
Driving in Panama can be rewarding, offering access to beaches, mountains, and remote villages. By understanding these differences and exercising caution, visitors from the U.S. can enjoy safe and memorable road adventures throughout the country.