No. Chile’s Ley de Tránsito (Law 18.290) and Reglamento de Tránsito (Decreto 251/2023) prohibit driving while wearing headphones or earphones that impair auditory perception. Violations incur fines up to 1.5 UTM (~$120 USD) and may result in license suspension. Municipal traffic authorities enforce this strictly, with 2026 amendments tightening penalties for distracted driving.
Key Regulations for Driving with Headphones in Chile
- Absolute Ban on Auditory Impairment: Artículo 76 of the Reglamento de Tránsito explicitly forbids headphones or earphones that reduce environmental sound awareness, including Bluetooth devices. Exceptions exist only for hearing aids or emergency vehicle operators.
- Strict Enforcement by Municipalities: Local Direcciones de Tránsito (e.g., Santiago’s Secretaría Municipal de Movilidad) conduct roadside checks, often using decibel meters to detect audio leakage from headphones.
- Penalties and Liability: Fines range from 0.5 to 1.5 UTM (CLP $30,000–$90,000 / USD $35–$105), with repeat offenses triggering temporary license suspension under Artículo 192 of the Código Penal for reckless endangerment.