One-way trafficPanama

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Panama. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


1. One-way traffic

One-way traffic means that vehicles on a road or carriageway may travel only in one designated direction. The permitted direction is normally indicated by traffic signs, lane arrows or road markings.

Some road users, such as cyclists or public-transport vehicles, may be allowed to travel in the opposite direction when signs expressly permit it. A one-way road does not by itself determine the speed limit, priority or parking rules.

How should I read a one-way restriction in Panama?

Follow the direction designated by the street’s one-way signs and any entrance restrictions or lane arrows. A compulsory turn at one junction is different from a restriction applying along the street.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments

No entry. No entry.

English • Traffic sign R-3-2A • No entry. Entry from this direction is prohibited.

Español • R-3-2A • No entre. Prohíbe entrar desde esta dirección en la vía señalizada.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Ena.com.pa • ENA Norte: detalle de señalización vertical, enero 2026, hoja 44

SVG source: Republic of Panama • Public domain • Original revision 2020-09-05. Wikimedia original unmodified.

May cyclists travel against the general traffic direction in Panama?

Do not assume cyclists are exempt from a road’s direction restriction. Check whether the applicable signs, local traffic arrangement or separately designated cycle facility actually authorise movement in the opposite direction; an ordinary bicycle-route sign is not enough.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments

Does one-way traffic give me priority or a different speed limit in Panama?

A one-way restriction concerns direction. Continue to follow the applicable speed limit, signals, give-way or stop controls and junction-priority rules. Where authorised counterflow traffic exists, check for it before turning or crossing; your permitted direction is not automatic junction priority.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments