UK Motorists In Spain Receive 14-Day Notice Ahead Of Licence Exchange Deadline
Spain News
Published: 01 September 2023 18:25 CET
Updated: 25 March 2025 18:25 CET
Residents of Spain who hold a UK or Gibraltar driving licence have been given a strict two-week notice urging them to exchange their UK driving licences before the impending deadline.
UK driving licence holders residing in Spain are required to swap their photocard licences for Spanish ones by September 15. It is crucial to note that this rule is applicable solely to individuals who were already living in Spain before March 15, 2023. Failure to comply with this regulation could lead to unintentional violations of the law.
This development follows an agreement reached in March, which allowed motorists to transfer their licences in Spain without the need for a new driving test.
Hugh Elliott, the British Ambassador to Spain, emphasised the importance of this exchange, stating, "It is very important that UK licence holders who lived in Spain prior to March 15 2023 and want to drive here exchange their licences on or before September 15.
"We want this message to reach as many UK licence holders as possible, so please spread the word and refer to our Facebook page and the ‘Living In Spain Guide’ on gov.uk for more information."
There were also reports earlier this year about the Low Emission Zones (LEZ) that were being placed in busy cities of Barcelona and Madrid, which could result in fines for uninformed drivers.
Airport Parking experts have advised travellers to thoroughly research and prepare before travelling on Spanish roads, as violating these zones may lead to a 200 euro penalty.
Spain's low-emission zones are implemented during specific hours to reduce air pollution levels. To access Barcelona between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., your vehicle must meet at least Euro 3 petrol emissions standards or Euro 4 diesel emissions standards, and drivers must obtain the appropriate vehicle badge before entering these controlled areas.
Sources
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/uk-drivers-spain-issued-two-30838327
https://www.facebook.com/BritsInSpain
