Many are curious about car ownership rules in the Dominican Republic.
It’s exciting that people are looking forward to exploring once they settle in the Dominican Republic. Ownership of a vehicle gives the freedom to visit any part of the country, from the breath-taking beaches of Punta Cana to the scenic hills of Jarabacoa, without restrictions.
Let’s look at the most common questions and their answers:
“Is it legal to buy, possess, and operate a car without holding a Dominican driver’s license and ID card prior to becoming a legal resident?”
Yes, it’s legal to buy and register a vehicle even if you aren’t a legal resident yet. Dealers and private sellers don’t need a cédula (Dominican national ID) to sell you a car. Nevertheless, the challenge lies in operating it legally not in ownership.
While you can possess a car without residency, your legal driving ability is limited to the first 90 days upon arrival. Post 90 days, driving without a valid license could lead to penalties or even seizure of your vehicle.
Also, note that the IDP is valid only with a valid home country license, and it’s a temporary solution, not a substitute for the Dominican driver’s license.