No, riding in the back of a truck is generally illegal in Colombia under Decreto 1077 de 2015 (Transport Regulation Code) and Ley 769 de 2002 (Traffic Code), which prohibit transporting passengers in cargo areas due to safety risks. Exceptions exist for agricultural or emergency vehicles with proper seating and authorization from Ministerio de Transporte, but enforcement by Policía Nacional and Secretarías de Movilidad has tightened since 2023.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Colombia
- Passenger Transport Prohibition: Artículo 83 de la Ley 769 de 2002 explicitly bans transporting people in unenclosed cargo spaces unless vehicles meet NTC 5376 (safety standards) and obtain Resolución 3200 de 2019 approval from Ministerio de Transporte.
- Local Enforcement: Municipal authorities like Secretaría de Movilidad de Bogotá impose fines up to COP 15 SMLDV (2024) for violations, per Acuerdo 806 de 2020.
- Exceptions: Agricultural or industrial vehicles may transport workers in back compartments if equipped with roll bars, seatbelts, and prior DIAN registration under Decreto 1609 de 2002 (occupational safety).