Spain Driving Licence : Obtaining a driver’s license in Spain requires passing both a theory and practical driving exam. Here are some key things to know:
- Minimum age to obtain a license is 18 years old for cars and 16 years old for motorcycles and mopeds.
- Residency is not required. Both citizens and foreigners can obtain a Spanish license.
- For foreigners, you can drive on your valid foreign license for up to 6 months as a tourist. After 6 months, you must obtain a Spanish license.
- The process involves registering for the exam, studying the manual and traffic laws, taking the theory test at a Traffic Department Office, taking driving lessons from an approved driving school, and finally taking a practical road test.
Types of Spain Driving Licence
There are several classes of driver’s licenses you can obtain in Spain:
- Class B: For vehicles up to 3,500 kg and with up to 9 seats. This covers most regular cars and small vans.
- Class A1: For light motorcycles with a maximum capacity of 125 cc and power up to 11 kW.
- Class A2: For motorcycles with a maximum capacity of 35 kW.
- Class A: For any type of motorcycle.
- Class Truck License: For trucks over 3,500 kg.
- Class Bus License: For vehicles with over 9 seats.
Steps to Getting a Driver’s License
Follow these key steps to getting your Spanish driver’s license:
1. Register for the Theory Exam
- Visit your local Traffic Department Office (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico) to register.
- You will need to provide your passport and residency documents (if a foreigner).
- Pay the theory exam fee (approx. €24).
- You will be given a provisional learner’s permit.
2. Study for the Theory Test
- Study the official DGT theory test manual. Be familiar with traffic signs, signals, rules and regulations.
- Practice sample theory test questions. Many free resources and apps are available.
- The test has 30 multiple choice questions with 3 incorrect answers each. You must score at least 27 out of 30 to pass.
3. Take the Theory Exam
- Go to your Traffic Department Office on the appointed day and time.
- Bring your ID, provisional permit, and fee payment receipt.
- Take the 30 multiple choice questions on a computer. Results are given immediately.
4. Register for Practical Driving Lessons
- If you passed the theory exam, register for classes at an approved driving school.
- You must complete a minimum number of driving lesson hours for each license type. For a Class B car license it is 30 hours.
- Take classes with an experienced instructor to practice driving skills.
5. Take the Practical Driving Test
- Once your instructor approves, register for the practical exam at the Traffic Office.
- Bring all your documents, learner’s permit, and pay the fee (approx €77).
- A driving examiner will test your driving on various skills and maneuvers.
- If you pass, you will be issued your full driver’s license.
Getting an International Driving Permit
If you want to drive outside of Spain, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a document that translates your license into several languages and allows you to legally drive abroad.
To get a Spanish IDP:
- Apply at your local Traffic Department Office.
- Submit your Spanish license, passport photos, and completed application.
- Pay a small fee (approx €20).
The IDP is valid for 3 years alongside your Spanish license. Over 150 countries recognize the IDP globally.
Renewing a Spanish Driver’s License
Licenses must be renewed every 10 years in Spain:
- Regular licenses can be renewed up to 60 days in advance.
- If your license expired over 5 years ago, you may have to retake both the theory and practical exams.
- Bring your old license, passport, residency card, and fee to your Traffic Office.
- Pay the renewal fee and get a new photo taken.
- You will be issued a renewed license valid for 10 years.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen License
If your Spanish license is ever lost, stolen or damaged, report it and apply for a replacement right away:
- File a police report for lost/stolen license. Get a copy of the report.
- Visit your Traffic Office and inform them you need a replacement license.
- Show your passport, residency card, police report, and old license if possible.
- Have a new photo taken and pay the replacement fee (approx €25).
- A duplicate license will be reissued with same number and expiration.
Changing Your Address on Your License
If you change residences within Spain, you must update your address on your driver’s license within 30 days:
- Visit your local Traffic Office.
- Show ID and proof of new address (rental contract, utility bill etc).
- Request a change of address on your license.
- Pay a small fee (approx €8-10) for an updated license.
Failure to change addresses can result in fines or suspension of your license.
Getting a License After Revocation
If your license was revoked, you must go through the application process again and meet certain conditions:
- If revoked for serious offenses, you may have to wait 6-12 months to reapply or finish your revocation period.
- Pass an approved first aid, alcohol, drugs and responsible driving course.
- Get a favorable psychological exam report.
- Retake both the theory and practical driving tests.
- If approved, you can obtain a new license. Restrictions may apply.
Traffic Violations and Penalties
As a driver, you must obey all Spanish traffic laws. Some common infractions and penalties include:
- Speeding – Fines from €100 up and license suspensions
- DUI – Fines up to €1000, license suspension up to 6 years
- Reckless Driving – Fines up to €500, license suspension
- Running a Red Light – Fines up to €200
- Not wearing a seatbelt – Fines up to €200
- Talking on cell phone while driving – Fines up to €200
Penalties increase for repeat offenses. All traffic fines, violations, and points are recorded in a national driving database.
Driving License Fees and Costs in Spain
Here are typical fees associated with obtaining a Spanish driver’s license:
- Theory Exam – €24
- Provisional Permit – €9
- Practical Exam – €77
- Driving School Lessons – €30-50/hour
- License Renewal – €25
- Replacement License – €25
- International Driving Permit – €20
Overall, expect to pay €500-1000 to get a new license in Spain. Costs may be higher if you need extensive driving lessons.
Booking Driving Tests and Checking Results
Spain provides an online system for booking and tracking your driving exams:
- Visit www.dgt.es to access the DGT website.
- Click on “Book Exam Date” and select theory or practical test.
- Login with your Spanish ID number or provisional permit details.
- Select your preferred date, time and location for the test.
- Enter payment information to complete booking.
To check test results:
- Login to your account on the DGT website.
- Click on “Check Exam Results”.
- You will see status of “Pass” or “Fail” for any exams taken.
- Passed theory results are valid for 2 years.
FAQ on Spain Driving Licence
Can I drive in Spain with my foreign license?
Yes, you can legally drive for up to 6 months in Spain with a valid foreign driver’s license. After 6 months, you must obtain a Spanish license.
Does Spain accept international driving permits?
Yes, Spain recognizes international driving permits/licenses. An IDP allows non-residents to drive for up to 1 year with their foreign license.
How long is a Spanish driver’s license valid for?
Licenses are valid for 10 years. You must renew it before the expiration date to continue legally driving. Fines apply for driving with an expired license.
What is the minimum driving age in Spain?
The minimum age is 18 years for cars, 16 years for motorcycles up to 125 cc, and 20 years for buses and trucks.
How many times can I take the driving test in Spain?
You can take the theory test up to 3 times in a row. If failed 3 times, you must wait 3 months before retaking. There is no limit on retaking the practical test.
Is a Spanish license valid in other EU countries?
Yes, Spain follows EU license reciprocity rules. A Spanish license is valid for driving in all EU member states.
Do I need to take driving lessons at an accredited school in Spain?
Yes, you are required to complete certified driving lessons at an approved school before taking the practical test.
What documents do I need to bring to convert my foreign license to a Spanish license?
You need your valid foreign license, passport, proof of residency in Spain longer than 6 months, and 2 passport photos.
Can I get a Spanish license if my foreign license is expired?
No, you can only convert a valid, non-expired foreign driver’s license to a Spanish one.
Getting a Driver’s License Opens Up Spain
Obtaining a driver’s license is a milestone for any new expat or student immersing themselves in Spanish life. With an IDP and Spanish license, you can confidently explore all the amazing sights and experiences this country has to offer! Drive safe and responsibly on the roads.