Paying Traffic Fines In Spain
Expat Tips
Published: 19 June 2019 12:22 CET
Updated: 05 May 2025 15:21 CET
Updated for 2025: This guide explains how traffic fines in Spain work for tourists, expats, residents and foreign-registered vehicles. Learn how fines are issued, how much they cost, how to pay them, how to appeal, and how to avoid enforcement problems such as embargoes and licence points.
Understanding traffic fines in Spain
Whether you're a visitor or a long-term resident, Spanish traffic enforcement is strict — and in 2025 the DGT is using more cameras, drones and automated systems than ever. Fines can come from speed cameras, roadside checkpoints, municipal police, parking authorities or low-emission zone cameras. Missing or ignoring a fine can lead to rapid escalation, including bank embargoes.
What you can be fined for in Spain
Common — and often surprising — infractions include:
- Speeding, including very small over-limit detections
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Not wearing a seatbelt or helmet
- Parking illegally or too close to crossings
- Driving barefoot or with unstable footwear (unsafe driving)
- Failing to use dipped headlights in tunnels
- Failing to yield or running a red light
- Entering ZBE low-emission zones without authorisation
- Dirty or illegible number plates
- Smoking or using a phone/radio while refuelling
- Driving without a valid licence or incorrect categories
- Not updating your registered address with the DGT
Even a dirty plate can cost €80, and “unsafe driving” fines are increasingly common.
How fines are issued
Residents: Fines are sent to the address registered with the DGT. If the details are outdated, you may never receive the letter — but the fine still proceeds to enforcement.
Non-residents: Police may demand payment on the spot. Guardia Civil may escort a driver to an ATM or rental office if needed.
Rental car drivers: Rental companies charge an admin fee, then pass the fine to the driver.
EU visitors: Cross-border enforcement (Directive 2015/413) allows Spain to pursue fines issued to drivers from other EU states.
How much are traffic fines in 2025?
Typical fine levels include:
- Speeding: €100–€600 and up to 6 points
- Drink/drug driving: €500–€1,000 and 4–6 points
- Using a mobile phone: €200 and 3 points
- No seatbelt/helmet: €200 and 3 points
- Endangering cyclists/pedestrians: up to €1,000
Speeding penalty table (2025)
Exceeding limits by over 60 km/h in towns or 80 km/h on highways is a criminal offence and may involve court action or licence suspension.
Spain's driving licence penalty points system
Drivers start with 12 points. Points deducted depend on the severity of the offence:
- 6 points: extreme speeding, reckless driving, refusing breath test
- 4 points: running red lights, dangerous overtaking
- 3 points: phone use, no seatbelt, unsafe distance
- 2 points: minor infractions
Lose all 12 points and your licence is revoked. You must complete a rehabilitation course and retake your tests. Reinstated drivers return with only 8 points.
Early payment discount
Paying a fine within 20 calendar days gives a 50% reduction. After 45 days, unpaid fines are transferred to the Tax Agency (AEAT) with a surcharge.
How to pay a traffic fine in Spain
You can pay in several ways:
Bank transfer details:
- IBAN: ES11 2100 5731 7102 0020 3821
- SWIFT: CAIXESBBXXX
- Reference: Your fine's “Número de expediente”
How to appeal a fine
If you wish to contest a fine, you have 20 days to file an appeal via:
Note: appealing forfeits the 50% early-payment discount.
How to check if you have outstanding fines
You can check unpaid or previously issued fines through the TEU bulletin board:
Check outstanding fines (TEU)
This is essential if you moved house or believe you may have missed a notification.
What happens if you don’t pay a fine?
Consequences escalate quickly:
- Bank account embargoes (AEAT)
- Vehicle immobilisation or seizure
- Substantial surcharges
- Licence or registration freezes
FAQs: Paying traffic fines in Spain (2025)
Do foreign drivers have to pay Spanish fines?
Yes. For non-residents, Guardia Civil can demand on-the-spot payment. EU cross-border enforcement also applies.
Can I pay a fine at the post office?
In most regions, no — only CaixaBank, DGT offices or online portals.
Do speeding fines always remove points?
No — minor speeding (low excess) may carry no points, only a financial penalty.
What if my rental car gets fined?
The rental agency will forward your details to the DGT and charge an administrative fee.
Can I appeal a fine issued by radar?
Yes, but only if you can demonstrate calibration issues, incorrect signage, or procedural error.
Can unpaid fines block my car’s ITV?
Serious enforcement cases (embargoes or registration holds) can prevent vehicle administrative procedures.
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