How To Exchange Your Driving Licence In Spain
Expat Tips
Published: 28 March 2012 12:49 CET
Updated: 05 May 2025 12:49 CET
Do I Need to Exchange My Licence to Drive in Spain?
Whether you need to exchange your foreign driving licence in Spain depends on three key factors: your country of issue, how long you’ve been legally resident, and whether Spain has a reciprocal agreement with your country.
Drivers from EU/EEA countries, the UK, and specific third countries may not need to take a driving test—but most will need to take a medical aptitude check. For others, passing the full Spanish driving exam is mandatory.
UK Licence Holders: The Latest Post-Brexit Agreement (2023–2025)
As of 2025, the UK and Spain continue to honour the bilateral agreement announced in late 2023. Under this deal:
- UK licence holders residing in Spain must exchange their licence within 6 months of obtaining residency.
- You can legally drive during that window and while waiting for your appointment, provided you book in time.
- No Spanish driving test is required—but you must take a psycho-physical aptitude test.
- This applies to licences issued by the DVLA (England, Scotland, Wales), DVA (Northern Ireland), and Gibraltar.
- If you previously exchanged your UK licence for one from a third country, check with your provincial DGT office to confirm if a direct exchange is still possible.
EU/EEA Licence Holders: When Is Exchange Required?
If your licence was issued by an EU or EEA country, you may legally drive in Spain using your existing licence under the following terms:
- You must be at least 18 years old (Spain’s legal driving age).
- You can continue using your licence until it expires.
- You must exchange your licence within 2 years of residency if it has no expiry date or is valid for more than:
- 15 years for Group 1 (AM, A1, A2, A, B, BE)
- 5 years for Group 2 (C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D, DE)
While voluntary exchange is possible at any time, required exchanges follow these timeframes. Once exchanged, you’ll receive a provisional Spanish licence (valid for 3 months in Spain) while your permanent card is processed.
Non-EU/EEA Licence Holders: Can You Exchange Yours?
For expats from outside the EU/EEA, you may drive in Spain using your original licence for 6 months from your residency start date. After that, you must exchange it—or stop driving—unless you pass the Spanish driving test.
Spain currently has bilateral agreements with several countries, including:
Andorra, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Japan, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, Switzerland, Uruguay, Venezuela
This list can change. Always confirm with your consulate or check the official DGT agreement list to verify your status.
If your country is not on the list (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa), you’ll need to pass the full Spanish theory and practical driving tests after your 6-month grace period ends.
How to Exchange Your Foreign Licence
To begin the exchange process, you must make an appointment at your local Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico via the DGT online portal or by calling 060.
Required Documents:
- Completed application form (UK-specific version here)
- Valid passport (copy + original)
- NIE certificate and residency card
- Current driving licence + copy (translated if required)
- Certificate of medical aptitude from a recognised medical centre
- Two 32x25mm photos
- Applicable fee (typically €28.87, or €20.81 for UK holders)
You can pay the fee in advance via the DGT payment portal or at your appointment. Over-70s are typically exempt from fees.
When Do Spanish Licences Expire?
- Every 10 years if you’re under 65
- Every 5 years if over 65
No driving test is required for renewal, but a medical check is.
For medically restricted licences issued for shorter durations:
- 4 years: €19.67
- 3 years: €14.75
- 2 years: €9.83
- 1 year: €4.92
How Long Does the Exchange Take?
Most drivers receive their Spanish licence within 4 to 8 weeks. Your provisional paper licence allows you to drive legally in Spain while you wait (valid for up to 3 months).
Need Reliable Health Coverage While Driving in Spain?
If you’re an expat driver in Spain, health coverage that includes protection in case of traffic accidents is a smart move. The Sanitas Top Quantum plan includes traffic-related medical coverage and is tailored for expats who spend time on the road. Don’t leave your wellbeing to chance—check it out now.
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