Why are Motorcycle Taxis Prohibited in Panama? The ATTT Explains the Fines and Penalties
The ATTT reiterated that motorcycle taxi service is prohibited in Panama. Learn why it is illegal, what penalties apply, and what Director Nicolás Brea said.
The Transit and Land Transportation Authority (ATTT) reiterated that motorcycle taxi service remains prohibited in Panama and warned that drivers caught offering this type of transportation will be sanctioned according to current regulations. The statement comes amid operations being carried out by the agency to strengthen the oversight of motorcyclists, following citizen complaints and several criminal cases in which motorcycles have been used.
The general director of the ATTT, Nicolás Brea, explained that motorcycles are not authorized to provide public passenger transport services, so anyone offering paid trips in this type of vehicle is committing an infraction. Brea noted that during the operations, several drivers who were illegally offering motorcycle taxi services have already been detected and sanctioned. The institution reiterated that these checks also aim to verify that motorcyclists comply with the requirements established by law, including:
- Have a type B driver’s license.
- Wear a regulation helmet.
- Carry the definitive single plate.
- Keep the insurance policy for damages to third parties up to date.
Operations Seek to Reinforce Road Safety
The ATTT indicated that inspections will continue at different points throughout the country as part of the actions to strengthen road safety and enforce the Traffic Regulations. Authorities called on motorcyclists to respect legal provisions and avoid providing passenger transport services on motorcycles, as this activity is not permitted in Panama and may result in administrative penalties.
