Important Driving License Rules for Foreign Residents in Spain: What You Need to Know
If you’re a foreign resident living in Spain, understanding the rules about your driving license is crucial. Many newcomers are unaware that failing to exchange or renew their foreign license can lead to serious consequences—and thousands are fined every year as a result.
In 2024 alone, more than 21,000 people were fined for driving with a license that wasn’t valid in Spain. Of these, over 16,000 had not exchanged their licenses, and more than 3,000 hadn’t renewed theirs after becoming residents. So, what are the rules, and how can you avoid becoming part of this statistic?
For EU/EEA License Holders
According to Spain’s General Regulation on Drivers (Article 15, Section 4), if you hold a driving license from an EU or EEA country, and you’ve been living in Spain for more than two years, you must renew your license in Spain, if it’s valid indefinitely or for more than 15 years (for standard categories like AM, A1, A2, A, B, and BE). For professional licenses (like C, D categories), the limit is five years.
Failing to comply with this rule is considered a serious administrative offense and can result in a €200 fine.
For Non-EU/EEA (Third Country) License Holders
If you’re from a non-EU/EEA country, your foreign license is only valid for six months after you obtain residency in Spain. After that, you must exchange it for a Spanish one—if your country has an exchange agreement with Spain.
Driving after this six-month window without a valid Spanish license can lead to a €200 fine if your license is exchangeable, and up to €500 if it is not (e.g., your country has no agreement or your license doesn’t meet the requirements).
Stay Legal on the Roads
Driving with an invalid license not only risks hefty fines—it could also void your insurance in the event of an accident. To stay safe and legal, check your license status and exchange or renew it as soon as required.
Need help exchanging your license? Contact Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) or consult your local town hall (ayuntamiento).