Quick Answer: Canadians converting their driver's license in Panama need two key documents before visiting Sertracen: (1) a certification letter from the Embassy of Canada, and (2) MINREX authentication of that embassy letter. Skipping the MINREX step is the most common reason Canadians get rejected at Sertracen.
If you're a Canadian living in Panama, getting a local driver's license sounds simple until you're standing at a counter being told your paperwork isn't valid.
I went through this process myself in Panama City. This guide is written specifically for Canadians because our process differs from what you'll read in most expat blogs, and I'm writing from the 2025-2026 reality of what actually works.
The Two Agencies You'll Deal With
Sertracen
Sertracen is the entity that processes driver's licenses in Panama. This is where you submit documents, complete the required tests, and receive your Panamanian license.
MINREX (Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores)
Panama's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This step is frequently skipped or misunderstood online, but it's the main reason Canadians get rejected at Sertracen.
MINREX authenticates the signature on your Canadian Embassy certification so Panama recognizes it as valid.
Why Canadians Have a Different Path
Most countries can apostille their documents and have them accepted directly.
Canadians have a slightly different route because our driver's licenses are issued provincially (Ontario, Quebec, BC, etc.), and the certification usually comes through the Embassy of Canada.
In practice, Panama frequently requires MINREX authentication even after embassy certification.
This is where most Canadians lose time.
What Happened When I Skipped MINREX
I went to Sertracen in January 2022 with my Embassy of Canada certification letter in hand. I thought I was ready.
The Sertracen officer reviewed my documents, then handed me a rejection slip.
The handwritten note said:
*"Tiene que autentificar firma del consul en el ministerio de relaciones exteriores en Panamá."*
Translation: You must authenticate the consul's signature at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Panama.
That's not theoretical. It happens.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Get Your Canadian License Certified by the Embassy
The Embassy of Canada in Panama can issue a certification letter confirming your Canadian license is valid, stating the license type/category, and confirming your identity as the holder.
The Embassy has strict pickup rules and hours. In my case, they confirmed pickup was only available on weekdays during the morning, and they require you to follow their entry procedures.
Only you can collect the document unless you authorize a third party in advance.
The certification letter is typically addressed to ATTT (Autoridad del Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre) and may state the Panama license category equivalent. For example, Ontario Class G is generally treated as equivalent to Panama Category C.
Step 2: Authenticate the Embassy Certification at MINREX
Even though the Embassy certifies the document, Sertracen often requires the consular signature to be authenticated by MINREX before they will accept it.
Skip this step and you risk getting sent away, like I was.
There is more than one Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in Panama City, and multiple locations appear on Google Maps. It's easy to end up at the wrong building and lose half a day.
Timing matters. Go early and avoid peak traffic hours. Panama City traffic is serious, and if you arrive late in the morning you can miss the practical processing window.
Step 3: Book Your Sertracen Appointment
Once your documents are authenticated, book your appointment at Sertracen.
The process is called *homologación de licencia extranjera* (validation of a foreign driver's license).
Bring everything. Sertracen is strict. If anything is missing, you'll be sent away.
Step 4: Complete Required Tests
Sertracen requires basic medical screening before issuing your license:
These aren't difficult, but they're part of the process.
Step 5: Receive Your Panamanian License
If everything is approved, Sertracen issues your Panamanian driver's license.
The validity period depends on your immigration status. Temporary residents receive a license matching their visa duration. Permanent residents can receive a license valid for up to 4 years.
Document Checklist
Identity and Immigration
Canadian License Documents
At Sertracen
Common Rejection Reasons
No MINREX authentication. You have the embassy letter but didn't authenticate it. Sertracen rejects this.
Missing copies. Panama runs on copies. Bring duplicates of everything.
Name discrepancies. If your Canadian license name differs from your passport (middle names, spelling, accent marks), it can cause delays.
Expired license. If your Canadian license is expired, don't assume it's fine. This is commonly rejected.
Wrong Sertracen office. Some offices handle homologation, others don't. Confirm before you go.
Timeline
If you do it efficiently:
Many people lose 1-2 weeks because they do steps in the wrong order or show up missing MINREX authentication.
One Phrase to Know
If you only learn one Spanish phrase for this process:
"Vengo para homologar mi licencia extranjera."
(I'm here to validate my foreign driver's license.)
Do You Need a Lawyer?
No. This isn't a legal process requiring a lawyer.
But it is a process where many Canadians waste time because nobody explains the correct order, the MINREX requirement, and what Sertracen actually accepts.
Personal Accompaniment Service
If you want to convert your license without losing days running around Panama City, I offer a personal accompaniment service for Canadians.
What's included:
$250 USD (Panama City only)
If you want to do it yourself, this guide gives you the correct roadmap. If you want it done efficiently with someone who's been through the rejection and knows exactly what Sertracen requires, contact me.
Note This is an administrative assistance service only. I'm not providing legal advice, immigration advice, or acting as a representative of any government office.
Summary
Converting a Canadian driver's license in Panama is completely doable. The process isn't hard - it's just specific.
The two keys:
Once you do those correctly, Sertracen becomes straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Panama with my Canadian license?
Yes, for the first 90 days after entering Panama. After that, or once you become a resident, you need a Panamanian license to drive legally.
Do I need to take a driving test to convert my Canadian license?
No. If you authenticate your license through the Canadian Embassy, you're exempt from the written and driving tests. You only need to complete vision and hearing tests at Sertracen. Drivers over 70 may need additional medical clearance.
How long does the Panama license conversion take?
If you have all documents ready and follow the correct order (Embassy first, then MINREX, then Sertracen), the process can be completed in about a week. Most delays come from skipping the MINREX step or missing documents.
What is MINREX and why do Canadians need it?
MINREX is Panama's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They authenticate the signature on your Embassy of Canada certification letter so Sertracen recognizes it as valid. Without this authentication, Sertracen often rejects Canadian applications.
How much does it cost to convert a Canadian license in Panama?
Expect to pay approximately $50 USD at the Canadian Embassy for certification, a small fee at MINREX (around $5), and approximately $40 at Sertracen for the license itself. Blood type testing, if required, costs around $5. Total is typically $100-150 USD plus transportation.
What license category will I receive?
Your Panama license category depends on your Canadian license class. Ontario Class G, for example, converts to Panama Category C, which covers standard passenger vehicles.
Can I keep my Canadian license after converting?
Yes. Converting to a Panamanian license doesn't require surrendering your Canadian license. You can keep both.
What if my Canadian license is expired?
An expired license is commonly rejected. Renew your Canadian license before starting the Panama conversion process, or contact ServiceOntario (or your province's equivalent) about renewal options while abroad.
*This guide reflects Panama's driver's license conversion process as of February 2026. Requirements, fees, and timelines are subject to change without notice. Always verify current procedures with the Canadian Embassy, MINREX, and Sertracen before starting your application.*
