The Chilean government has launched a financial relief program for public transport operators to help offset rising fuel costs, offering a monthly subsidy of $100,000 CLP. The “Bono a Transportistas 2026” is available for a six-month period, running from April through September 2026.
This initiative underscores the government’s effort to provide direct economic support to the transport sector, ensuring that essential mobility services remain viable amid fluctuating energy prices. According to reports from El Mostrador, the bonus serves as a critical “pocket relief” for those in the public transport industry.
To qualify for the benefit, vehicle owners must have been registered and active in the National Register of Public and School Transport (RNSTP) as of March 24, 2026. Eligible vehicles include:
- Basic, executive, and tourism taxis
- Collective taxis (both urban and rural)
- School transport vehicles
- Vehicles providing passenger services between Arica and Tacna that are included in the official census
The application process is managed entirely online through the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications’ “Cero Filas” portal. Applicants must log in using their ClaveÚnica to select their vehicle and designate a beneficiary. While the owner typically receives the funds, they may appoint a designated driver (mero tenedor) to receive the payment on their behalf. Yet, only one person per vehicle can receive the bonus, and individuals are limited to one bonus per month.
For those acting as designated drivers, a valid professional license is required to operate the declared vehicle, which the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications will verify. Payments are distributed via the Instituto de Previsión Social (IPS) according to a set payment calendar. Officials have clarified that the bonus is neither taxable nor subject to social security contributions.
The government has likewise provided flexibility for operators who updated their fleets. Those who replaced a taxi or collective taxi in the register after March 24, 2026, remain eligible provided the latest vehicle is inscribed at the time of the request. In these instances, payments will begin from the date of the new vehicle’s registration and continue for the remainder of the program period.
Despite the high demand, the rollout has not been without hurdles. La Tercera reported that the application platform has experienced intermittent technical issues, complicating the process for some users. Nevertheless, the program has seen rapid adoption. Cooperativa.cl noted that over 90% of eligible beneficiaries have already applied for the subsidy.
Detailed guidelines on how to navigate the application process and meet the requirements can be found through the Government of Chile portal. Further updates on the progress of national registrations continue to be provided by the Ministry of Transport, as reported by Radio Festival.
