Updated 04/01/2026
Here’s a thorough, up-to-date guide on how to exchange (canjear) a UK driving licence for a Spanish driving licence now that Spain and the UK have a bilateral agreement in place:
1. Legal Context After Brexit
Since 16 March 2023, the UK and Spain have a reciprocal agreement allowing holders of UK driving licences to exchange them for Spanish licences without taking the Spanish theory or practical test, but under specific conditions. (UK weblink)
Important points:
Your UK licence is valid for driving in Spain for up to six months from the date you become resident. After that, you must exchange it to continue driving legally.
You can still exchange your UK licence after six months, but you cannot legally drive using the UK licence while the exchange is pending.
2. What You Must Do Before Booking an Appointment
a) Obtain the DVLA “Check Code”
Spain’s DGT requires a DVLA check code to verify your licence details online during the exchange process:
For Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales): use the UK Gov “View and share your driving licence” service to generate a check code valid for about 21 days.
For Northern Ireland, use the DVA equivalent service.
You will provide this code when you go for your exchange appointment.
b) Standard Documents Required
When you submit the exchange in person (or online where possible), typically the following are required:
Original UK driving licence (photocard and counterpart if applicable).
DVLA check code (see above).
Passport or national ID (if applicable).
Proof of legal residence in Spain (TIE card or residencia details).
Psychophysical (medical) certificate from a recognised centre — this tests vision and basic fitness to drive.
Passport-style photograph (32 × 26 mm in colour).
Proof of payment of the DGT fee (~€28-29).
You will surrender your UK licence original at the DGT office as part of the exchange.
How to Apply
There are three main ways to start the process:
1) In Person at a DGT Traffic Office (“Jefatura/Oficina de Tráfico”)
You book a “cita previa” (appointment) with the DGT.
At the appointment, you present all documents above and pay the fee.
You receive a temporary Spanish licence (provisional) to drive while the new one is processed.
Tip: It’s often easier to book an appointment under the category “Trámites de Oficina – Conductores” if UK isn’t explicitly listed.
2) Online Through the DGT Electronic Office (Sede Electrónica)
You can start the exchange online using Cl@ve or a digital certificate and upload documents.
After online submission and upload, you will be asked to attend only to hand in the original UK licence and collect the provisional Spanish one.
3) Via a Gestoría / Representative
Many expats use a gestoría (administrative agent) to handle paperwork, especially if appointments are hard to get.
The gestoría may handle DVLA check codes, medical certificate coordination, and submission.
After Submission
The DGT takes your UK licence and issues a temporary Spanish driving permit (to drive while the process completes).
Your official Spanish licence is mailed to your registered address, usually within 4–8 weeks (processing times vary by province).
Key Warnings / Common Issues
Residency timing: If you obtained your UK licence after becoming a legal resident in Spain, it may not be exchangeable under the agreement and you may need to apply for a full Spanish licence. DGT Sede Electrónica
Driving validity: After the six-month valid driving period on your UK licence, you must either complete the Spanish exchange or you are not legally allowed to drive in Spain until it’s done.
Medical test: You must obtain a psychophysical (medical) certificate before or at the time of your appointment.
Summary Process Checklist
Get a DVLA check code.
Book a DGT appointment or prepare an online application.
Get a medical (psicotécnico) certificate.
Gather documents (UK licence, ID, residence proof, photo).
Attend DGT or submit online.
Receive provisional licence and later Spanish card by post
