SIMIT records every traffic ticket you receive in Colombia, creating potential problems for unprepared drivers. Hidden fines can stop license renewals and vehicle transfers without warning. Find out how to check your record using your SIMIT Por Placa before it’s too late.
What is SIMIT?
SIMIT stands for Integrated Information System on Fines and Sanctions for Traffic Violations. It’s Colombia’s national database for traffic violations. Created and managed by the Colombian Federation of Municipalities, this system connects traffic authorities from every city and town in the country. This means all your tickets show up in one place, no matter where you got them.
Most local transit offices only show tickets from their own city. SIMIT is different because it shows everything on your record nationwide:
- Lets you verify outstanding traffic tickets using either license plate or ID card
- Shows detailed information about each violation
- Offers secure online payment options
- Provides access to clearance certificates (“Paz y Salvo”)
- Informs you about any payment discounts you can get
SIMIT works as the main database for traffic violations. It gathers information from all the local transit offices (Secretarías de Tránsito y Transporte) throughout the country and keeps everything synchronized.
Why SIMIT is Essential?
SIMIT plays a critical role in Colombian traffic enforcement for several reasons:
| Reason | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Consistency | Unifies data from all cities, preventing drivers from avoiding fines by moving between regions |
| Transparency | Anyone can check if a person or vehicle has unpaid fines |
| Legal requirement | Certain procedures require being “a paz y salvo” (clear of fines) in SIMIT |
| Prevents fraud | Helps stop fake clearances or missed fines |
| Supports road safety | Allows authorities to monitor traffic behavior nationwide |
When You’ll Need to Check SIMIT?
You’ll typically need to consult your SIMIT record when you:
- Register a new vehicle
- Transfer ownership of a car or motorcycle
- Renew or get a driver’s license
- Apply for RUNT updates (National Transit Registry)
- Need proof that you have no outstanding fines
Differences Between SIMIT and RUNT
Many drivers confuse SIMIT with RUNT Por Placa (National Single Transit Registry), but they serve different purposes in Colombia’s transportation system. Here’s how they compare:
| Key Aspect | SIMIT (Integrated Information System for Traffic Infractions) | RUNT (National Single Transit Registry) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Purpose | Centralized database that tracks all traffic violations, monetary penalties, and payment status across every Colombian municipality | Official national registry that maintains legal records of all vehicles, drivers’ licenses, and transportation services throughout Colombia |
| Information Management | Processes violation data, calculates fines with interest, tracks educational requirements, and generates clearance certificates when all penalties are paid | Documents vehicle specifications, ownership history, technical inspection results, insurance validity, and driver qualification status |
| Role in Vehicle Procedures | Verifies that drivers have no outstanding penalties before allowing critical transactions; provides payment processing for fines with applicable discounts | Validates the legal standing of vehicles for registration, transfers, and cancellations; does not handle direct payments but records when official fees are satisfied |
Both platforms play essential roles in Colombia’s transportation ecosystem, working together to ensure regulatory compliance. When completing vehicle procedures, you’ll typically need to interact with both systems—checking SIMIT to clear any outstanding fines before RUNT will process ownership changes or registration updates.
How to Check Traffic Fines in SIMIT Using Your License Plate?
Checking SIMIT Por Placa is the fastest way to see if your car has any unpaid tickets. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website Open any web browser and go to the SIMIT website: https://www.fcm.org.co/simit/
Step 2: Find the Search Section On the homepage, find the “Account Status – Ticket and Fine Inquiry” box in the middle.
Step 3: Select the Plate Option Click on the plate search option.
Step 4: Enter Your License Plate Type in your license plate number without any spaces or hyphens.
Step 5: Start Your Search Click the “Consult” button and wait a moment.
Step 6: Review Your Results The system will display all information related to your vehicle, including:
- Your vehicle’s license plate details
- Any outstanding fines and their current status
- The type and code of each violation
- Date and location where the ticket was issued
- Amount owed for each fine
- Payment options and deadlines
If you don’t have any tickets, you’ll see a message that says your record is clean.
This method is best for:
- Vehicle owners who share their car with family members
- People who recently purchased used vehicles
- Fleet managers handling company cars or motorcycles
- Drivers wanting to check if camera tickets were issued without notification
- Individuals planning to sell their vehicle and needing to verify its status
How to Check SIMIT Fines with Your ID Card?
Need to check all traffic tickets recorded in your name? You can check using just your ID card. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Access the SIMIT Platform Go to the SIMIT website at https://www.fcm.org.co/simit/ on any browser.
Step 2: Locate the Query Module Look for the search box on the main page.
Step 3: Choose ID Card Search Select the ID option.
Step 4: Input Your Identification Number Enter your ID number (cédula) without any spaces.
Step 5: Complete Security Verification If asked, complete any security check.
Step 6: Initiate the Search Click the “Consult” button to begin searching the database.
Step 7: Check the Results Review the detailed information that appears, which includes:
- Your full name as registered in the system
- A complete list of traffic violations in your name
- The status of each fine (pending, under review, or paid)
- Payment deadlines and any applicable discounts
- Interest accumulated on overdue fines
This service works all day, every day and costs nothing. The system updates right away, so you’ll see your current traffic fine information.
This method is best for:
- People who drive multiple vehicles
- Drivers who have received personal violations not tied to a specific vehicle
- Individuals wanting to check for photo detection tickets
- Those needing to verify their complete driving record before official procedures
- Professional drivers who operate different vehicles for work
Understanding the Details of Your Traffic Violation
When you look at a traffic ticket (comparendo) in SIMIT, you’ll see several key pieces of information. Knowing what these details mean helps you figure out what to do next – whether to pay it, fight it, or look for a discount.
| Field | What It Means | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Número de comparendo | The unique reference number for that violation | Used to identify the specific ticket when making payments or filing appeals |
| Fecha de imposición | The date when the violation was recorded | Starts the countdown for payment deadlines and discount periods |
| Fecha de notificación | When you were formally notified | Many legal deadlines depend on this date; improper notification may be grounds for appeal |
| Tipo de infracción | The specific rule that was violated, with the corresponding article from the Colombian National Traffic Code | Tells you exactly what you’re accused of; helpful if you want to contest the ticket |
| Autoridad | Which traffic authority issued the ticket | Indicates where to file appeals or make payments |
| Valor de la multa | The base amount you must pay | The “principal” part of the fine before interest or late fees |
| Intereses/recargos | Any interest or late payment charges | Shows extra costs for delayed payment |
| Estado del comparendo | Current status (pending, notified, in process, resolved) | Indicates whether the debt is active or in appeal |
| Medios técnicos | Whether the ticket was issued by camera or in person | Affects notification requirements and discount deadlines |
| Curso pedagógico | If an educational course is required for discounts | In many cities, this is mandatory to receive early payment discounts |
| Ubicación/hora | Where and when the violation happened | Helps verify if the alleged violation is valid |
How to Pay Traffic Fines Online Through SIMIT?
SIMIT lets Colombian drivers quickly settle their traffic tickets without visiting physical locations:
Step 1: Check your fines using either your ID number or license plate on the official website
Step 2: Review your results and select the checkboxes next to each fine you want to pay
Step 3: Click the “Pay” button to start the secure transaction process
Step 4: Enter a valid email address to receive your payment confirmation and receipt
Step 5: Choose from three payment methods:
- PSE for direct Colombian bank transfers
- Credit cards (major providers accepted)
- Debit cards linked to local accounts
Step 6: Complete the security steps required by your financial institution
Step 7: Save your confirmation number and digital receipt as proof of payment
Step 8: Allow 12-24 hours for your payment to appear in the SIMIT system
Step 9: Run another search after this period to verify your traffic violations show as paid
How to Pay SIMIT Fines in Person?
Not everyone prefers digital payments. Colombian drivers have several in-person options to settle their traffic penalties:
- Banks: You can pay at Banco AV Villas, Bancolombia, or Banco de Bogotá. Your payment will show up in the system in about 2-4 hours.
- Transit Offices: Each Colombian city has dedicated offices handling traffic fine payments.
- SIMIT service points: These specialized offices focus exclusively on traffic infraction matters.
When paying in person, bring:
- Your valid Colombian ID card
- The violation reference code if you have it
- Payment method (cash works everywhere; card acceptance varies by location)
Note: Always request and keep your payment receipt for at least 30 days. This document serves as your legal proof of payment until the SIMIT database updates your status. Some locations provide faster system updates than others.
How to Download a SIMIT Certificate of Peace and Safety?
The clearance document (“Paz y Salvo“) proves you have zero unpaid traffic violations in the Colombian system. This official certification serves as legal proof of your clean driving record. Here’s how to download it:
- Step 1: Open your web browser and go to the SIMIT portal
- Step 2: Enter either your ID number or vehicle plate in the search box
- Step 3: Verify your record shows no outstanding traffic tickets
- Step 4: Find the section labeled “Traffic History” or “Enforcement Records“
- Step 5: Select the download option (usually a down-arrow icon)
- Step 6: Save the PDF document to your device or send it directly to your email
Key Facts About Your Certificate
- Digital certificates work for most standard procedures
- Some legal situations require the physical version printed on security paper
- Request paper certificates only at authorized transit offices
- Each certificate remains valid for exactly 30 days from issue date
- The system provides these documents completely free of charge
The clearance process takes just minutes and gives you an official document proving your compliance with Colombian traffic laws. Always check your status before important vehicle transactions to avoid unexpected delays.
Discounts Available for Traffic Fines in Colombia
Colombian legislation provides substantial fine reductions for drivers who address their traffic violations promptly. The discount system encourages quick resolution and traffic education.
For Regular Traffic Tickets:
- Pay within the first 5 workdays plus complete safety training = 50% reduction
- Settle between days 6-20 and finish the required course = 25% savings
- Wait longer than 20 business days = full penalty amount plus added interest
For Photo Detection Tickets:
- Handle payment within 11 business days of official notice and take the course = half-price payment
- Resolve between days 12-27 with completed education = quarter-price discount
- Delay beyond the 27-day window = complete payment plus financial penalties
About the Road Safety Educational Course:
- Each course requires minimum 2-hour participation
- Only authorized agencies can provide valid certification
- Many cities now offer convenient online options
- Your discount application requires verified attendance proof
The discounts only apply when you both pay early AND complete the educational requirement. Meeting just one condition won’t let you have any discount. The system tracks both payment timing and course completion separately.
Can SIMIT Traffic Fines be Paid in Installments?
While SIMIT doesn’t offer payment plans directly through its website, you can set up installment agreements through local traffic authorities when facing large or multiple tickets. Here’s how to arrange a payment plan:
- Step 1: Visit the transit office that issued your tickets
- Step 2: Ask about “acuerdos de pago” (payment agreements)
- Step 3: Complete the required application form
- Step 4: Submit supporting documents: • Identification • Proof of financial hardship (if applicable) • Vehicle documentation
- Step 5: Review and accept the proposed payment schedule
- Step 6: Make regular payments according to the agreement
Benefits of Payment Agreements:
- Manageable Installments: Break large debts into smaller monthly payments.
- Legal Protection: Prevent additional enforcement actions while the plan is active.
- Document Access: Obtain limited certificates for essential procedures.
- Interest Freezing: Some agreements stop interest accumulation during the payment period.
During an active payment plan, your SIMIT record shows “En Acuerdo de Pago” (In Payment Agreement) rather than cleared, which may still restrict some vehicle procedures.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Traffic Tickets?
Not paying your traffic tickets in Colombia can cause serious problems that affect your life and money.
Financial Consequences:
- Your fine gets bigger with late fees and interest
- Your credit score may drop, making it hard to get loans
Legal and Administrative Barriers:
- You can’t sell your car until you pay all fines
- You may have trouble renewing your license
- You can’t get your yearly car registration
- Some insurance companies won’t cover you
Enforcement Actions:
- The police might take your car away
- You could face legal action
- You may not be able to do other business with the government
The longer you wait to pay, the more it will cost you. Even small fines grow quickly when you don’t pay them on time.
How to Challenge Incorrect Traffic Tickets?
If you believe a ticket was issued in error, you have the right to challenge it through proper legal channels. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: First, check all the ticket details in SIMIT.
Step 2: Write a letter to the transit office that gave you the ticket within 5 business days.
Step 3: Include proof that shows you’re right:
- Pictures or videos of where it happened
- Statements from people who saw what happened
- Technical reports if you need them
- Any papers that help prove your case
Step 4: Keep copies of everything you send them.
Step 5: Check often to see what’s happening with your case.
The transit office must answer you within 30 business days. If they agree with you, they will remove the fine from your SIMIT record.
Common Grounds for Appeals:
- Incorrect vehicle information
- Errors in time or location
- Improper notification
- Technical issues with camera equipment
- Mistaken identity
- Emergency situations that justified the violation
You can handle most simple ticket appeals yourself. But for tricky cases, getting a lawyer might help. A lawyer could be worth it if your case is complicated or if the fine is very large.
SIMIT Contact Information and Support Channels
If you encounter problems with the SIMIT system or need clarification about your traffic record, several support channels are available:
- National toll-free line: 01 8000 413 588
- Bogotá Line: (1) 5934026
- Email: contactosimit@fcm.org.co
- Social media: Official Facebook and Twitter accounts
- In-person support: Available at local transit offices
Frequently Asked Questions About SIMIT
How long until my payment shows up? Online payments usually show up within 12 hours. Bank payments can take up to 2 business days.
Can I check someone else’s tickets? Yes. You can check tickets with their ID or license plate number. This helps when checking family cars or work vehicles.
Do camera tickets show up in SIMIT? Yes. All camera tickets appear in SIMIT after they’re processed, usually within 3-5 business days.
I’m from another country. Can I use SIMIT? Yes. Visitors can use their passport or foreign ID to check and pay traffic tickets in Colombia.
Does it cost money to search SIMIT? No. Looking up tickets on the official website is free.
Can I pay more than one fine at once? Yes. You can pick several tickets and pay them all at the same time.
Do fines ever expire? Yes. According to the National Traffic Code, fines expire after three years if no action has been taken to collect them.
What if I sell my car with unpaid tickets? The tickets stay with the car. The new owner can’t register it until all tickets are paid.
Can I fight a ticket after I’ve paid it? No. Once you pay, you accept that you broke the rule and can’t fight it later.
How do I prove I paid if SIMIT still shows my ticket? Keep your receipt and contact SIMIT with your receipt number to fix the problem.
