Driving in Spain - Services - SpainDirect4U

What requirements have to be met to drive in Spain?

A driver must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s licence, although if hiring a vehicle you must be at least 21.

All that is needed for citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein is a valid driver's licence. Residents of any other country will need an International Driver's Licence.

If you are a Non-Resident of Spain then up to 6 months in each calendar year the Driving Regulations allow you to drive on a foreign driving license. For EU residents, until such time as a licence runs out, you can drive unrestricted. When the licence expires it is necessary to apply for a Spanish licence. Non-EU residents should gain a Spanish license after 1 year.

Road Tax

The cost of Road tax in Spain is paid annually. Costs depends upon the type of individual vehicle and the area.

Insurance

The provision of no claims for at least five years from your previous insurer can reduce insurance premiums. It is mandatory to have at least third party insurance.

Speed Limits
Residential areas 20kph
Urban roads 50kph
Country roads 90kph
Dual carriageways 100kph
Autopistas and autovias 120kph

Parking

There is no parking in places painted yellow and in those places where No Parking signs are displayed.

Meters are common and have parking spaces marked in blue; tickets can be purchased either from a machine or an attendant if on duty. Metered parking spaces are normally for a maximum of two hours usage. Please be aware that if no meter is immediately obvious near to your car that parking is free of charge; fines are imposed which do vary by area.

Fines

Speeding fines are charged and paid for at the time of the offence. Breath test are a frequent occurrence and a limit of 50mg per millilitre applies to the drink drive limit. Fines applied for breach of the limits are high.

Seatbelts

In Spain, the law dictates that seatbelts are worn in both the front and the rear seats.

These notes are merely for general guidance and as conditions may vary, it is recommended that contact is made with the local Spanish Consulate or Embassy for more information on all these requirements.

These notes are merely for general guidance and as conditions may vary, it is recommended that contact is made with the local Spanish Consulate or Embassy for more information on all these requirements.