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Taking A Driving Test In Spain

Expat Tips

How to Take the Theory and Practical Exams and Get Your Spanish Driving Licence (2025)

If you live in Spain and want to obtain your first driving licence, you’ll need to take both a driving theory and practical test, just as you would in most EU countries. The process is relatively straightforward and comprises five key steps:

  • Register at your local DGT office
  • Prepare for the theoretical and practical exams
  • Sit the theory exam
  • Take lessons with a driving school (Autoescuela)
  • Take the practical test

Note: To obtain a B-class (passenger car) licence in Spain, you must be at least 18 years old. Motorcycle categories start from 16.

Step 1: Registering at Your Local DGT Office

Before taking the test, you’ll need to register with the nearest DGT office and prepare the following:

Appointments must be made by calling 060 or via the DGT’s booking system on the DGT main portal.

Step 2: Preparing for the Theory and Practical Exams

While not mandatory, most people choose to register with a local Autoescuela to prepare. These schools offer structured courses, official study materials, and in many cases, English-speaking instructors.

Prefer to self-study? That’s fine too. You can use online platforms like Practicatest.com or EnglishDrivingSchool.com, which offer mock exams and updated road rule materials.

Step 3: Taking the Theory Test

The theory exam is taken at your local DGT office. In 2025, the test remains available in English — but you must request this option when booking or upon arrival.

The exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from a bank of over 3,000. You must score at least 27 correct answers (90%) to pass. The test may be paper-based or done on a computer depending on the centre.

Results are typically available the next day (excluding Fridays), viewable on the DGT exam results page.

Driving theory test

Step 4: The Practical Exam

Once you’ve passed the theory exam, your driving school will schedule your practical test. Lessons are mandatory and must be taken with an officially licensed instructor.

Costs vary, but expect to pay around €40 per lesson and approximately €1,000 or more total depending on the number of hours and your driving school’s pricing model. Many schools offer bundled packages for efficiency.

You’ll be tested in the same vehicle used during your training. The examiner may be accompanied by other candidates. The test includes both autonomous and directed driving, plus a mechanical knowledge check (e.g., headlights, indicators, checking fluids and tyre pressure).

You are allowed up to 10 minor errors. Any serious error or emergency brake intervention from the examiner results in immediate failure.

Additional 2025 Note: The DGT is increasingly testing drivers on Sat Nav/GPS usage and eco-driving techniques. Your instructor will prepare you for these scenarios if required by your test centre.

Step 5: After the Test

If you pass the practical exam, you'll receive a temporary paper licence valid for 90 days. Your full photocard licence typically arrives by post within 2–4 weeks.

If you fail, you can reschedule — but most schools will recommend a few extra lessons. Spain’s pass rate for first-time drivers remains around 27%, so don’t be discouraged.

Once you pass, you'll need to display a green L-plate (V-13) on the back left window of your vehicle for the first 12 months — a visible sign to other drivers that you’re newly licensed.

Private Health Cover for New Drivers in Spain

If you're living in Spain and learning to drive, having private health insurance that includes cover for traffic-related injuries gives extra peace of mind. Our Sanitas Top Quantum Plan includes accident protection and a wide medical network.

Stay safe and good luck with your test!

Sources:

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