Skip to content

    Police Checkpoints in Panama

    Police checkpoints are very common in Panama. Not only in the city, but throughout the entire country. Mostly in the evenings and nights. 

    In this article about Police Checkpoints in Panama, we cover the following items:

    Do you have any experience with Police checkpoints in Panama? Let us know in the comments!

    Why are there so many police checkpoints in Panama?

    Police checkpoints, also known as retenes, are very common in Panama. Especially during nighttime. The checkpoints are in place to prevent criminal acts, capture people required by justice and guarantee the safety of each citizen.

    What happens when I encounter a checkpoint?

    When you encounter a police checkpoint lower your driver-side window. In some cases the police will let you drive through without any questions, in other cases, the police might ask for your driver's license, passport (if you are a tourist), or identification card (cedula) if you are a resident of Panama. In addition, they might check if the license plate of your car is still valid. If it isn't, they will most likely ask for your car's papers to check. If everything is OK, they will let you pass.

    How to avoid any issues?

    • Be polite at all times,
    • Have your driver's license ready,
    • Make sure your car's license plate and insurance are valid at all times. 

    Panama's 0 alcohol policy in traffic

    In Panama, you are not allowed to drink and drive. Not even one beer or wine. If you get stopped at a police checkpoint and you consumed alcohol, you might be fined and your car will be towed away. Avoid drinking and driving. 

    I'm walking by, do I need to stop?

    No. In most cases, the police only check the drivers of cars and motorcycles. However, if the police ask you to stop, do so. 

    I'm a passenger in a taxi or uber, do I need to show my papers?

    Only if the police ask you to, in most cases, the police will only check the driver.

    Any questions? Contact us at info@residepanama.com, or submit the comment form below.