Many posts on this subject on the forum, but we just returned from Panama City, and a new rule appears to be in effect: once you submit your paperwork at the ministry office at Plaza Sun Tower, you must wait 2 business days before you can pick up the completed paperwork. If you made an appointment at the American Embassy to have your driver's license notarized, you can go directly to the ministry office to deliver the paperwork, but then will have to hang around for 2 more business days OR give he payment receipt to someone you trust who will return and pick up the paperwork for you.