EMOV Says It Isn't Targeting Ride Apps - It's Targeting Informal Drivers
Cuenca Expat Staff
Cuenca's mobility agency is trying to draw a line between ride apps and informal transport.
El Mercurio reports that EMOV EP confirmed it is sanctioning drivers who provide paid passenger transport without the legal authorization required under current rules. EMOV manager Lenin Guzman said the control is not aimed at technology platforms such as Uber, Cabify or inDrive, but at private drivers performing commercial transport without authorization.
The Penalty
El Mercurio lists three sanctions for these cases:
- A fine of two unified basic salaries, equal to $964 in 2026
- A reduction of 10 points on the driver's license
- Vehicle retention for a minimum of seven days
Guzman said formal taxis using apps such as Azu Taxi or Cuenca Taxi do not have the same problem because they have the required operating authorization.
What This Means For Expats
If you use ride apps, the practical point is this: EMOV says the control is about whether the driver has legal authorization, not whether the trip came through an app. For riders, that can mean more enforcement activity and a higher chance of disruption if a private driver is operating informally.
Source: El Mercurio
