If you want to drive in Spain, you need a valid driving licence. This guide explains how to get a Spanish licence. It covers driving schools, theory tests, and practical exams.
You must follow the administrative rules carefully to avoid delays at the traffic authority.
Who needs to get a Spanish driving licence?
Your requirement to get a Spanish licence depends on your nationality and residency status.
EU and EEA citizens
If you hold a licence from an EU or EEA country, you can drive in Spain indefinitely.
However, you must register your details with the traffic authority after two years of residence.
You must also pass a local medical fitness check.
Non-EU citizens
If you are a resident from outside the EU, you can only drive with your foreign licence for six months.
The six-month countdown starts the day you obtain your residency card (TIE).
After this period, you must obtain a Spanish licence.
Some countries have exchange agreements with Spain. If your country is on the list, you can exchange your licence without taking the driving tests.
If your country has no agreement, you must pass the full Spanish theory and practical exams.
How to convert a foreign driving licence in Spain
Document checklist to start the process
You must register with a driving school (autoescuela) or sign up as a private candidate.
Required registration documents
Bring these documents to start your application:
- NIE or TIE card : Your original residence permit. NIE guide
- Empadronamiento certificate : Proof of your address in Spain. empadronamiento guide
- Medical certificate : The informe de aptitud psicofísica showing you are fit to drive.
- Passport photo : A recent color photo measuring 32 by 26 millimetres.
Step 1: Pass the medical exam
You must pass a physical and mental fitness test before registering for the exams.
This check is called the examen psicotécnico.
You must visit an authorized driver medical center. These centers are called Centros de Reconocimiento de Conductores.
The doctor will test your eyesight and hearing.
You must also play a computer game using two joysticks to test your coordination.
The medical check costs between €30.00 and €50.00. The certificate is valid for 90 days.
Step 2: Pass the theoretical exam
The theory exam is managed by the DGT. It tests your knowledge of Spanish traffic signs and driving rules.
Exam format
The exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions.
You must complete the test within 30 minutes.
To pass, you must answer at least 27 questions correctly. You can make a maximum of three errors.
Language options
You can take the theory test in Spanish, English, French, or German.
You must request your language of choice when booking the exam date.
You can study for the exam using online test portals like TodoTest.
Step 3: Pass the practical exam
To take the practical exam, you must enroll in a driving school. You cannot take the test in your own car.
Practical lessons
The driving school car will have dual control pedals for the instructor.
You must take practical driving classes with an instructor.
There is no legal minimum number of lessons. However, instructors recommend taking at least 15 to 20 lessons before attempting the test.
The driving test format
The practical exam lasts around 25 minutes.
It includes three parts:
- Pre-drive checks : The examiner will ask you to identify a part of the engine or turn on specific lights.
- Autonomous driving : You must drive for 10 minutes following signs to a destination or using a GPS.
- Guided driving : You must drive for 15 minutes following the examiner’s verbal directions.
The examiner will also ask you to park the car on a street.
Error classifications
The examiner records three types of mistakes:
- Leve : A minor error that does not cause danger. You can make up to seven minor errors.
- Deficiente : A significant mistake. You fail if you make two of these errors.
- Eliminatorio : A dangerous error that requires the instructor to intervene. One eliminatory error results in immediate failure.
Total costs to get a licence
Getting a driving licence in Spain is expensive. You must budget for several separate fees.
Average cost breakdown
Here are the typical expenses:
- DGT registration fee: €94.05.
- Medical examination: €40.00.
- School registration and theory materials: €100.00.
- Practical lessons: €30.00 to €40.00 per class of 45 minutes.
- Practical exam presentation fee: €50.00 to €80.00.
The total cost usually ranges from €600.00 to €1,200.00 depending on how many lessons you need.
Questions and answers
Can I take the practical driving test in English?
No. The theory test has an English option. However, the practical exam is strictly in Spanish. You must understand basic commands like gira a la derecha (turn right).
How many exam attempts does the DGT fee cover?
Two attempts. The €94.05 fee gives you two opportunities in total. If you pass the theory test on your first try, you have two attempts for the practical. If you fail theory once, you only have one attempt left.
Can I drive an automatic car?
Yes. You can choose to take the practical test in an automatic car. However, your licence will restrict you to driving automatic vehicles only. Testing in a manual car allows you to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
What is the green L plate?
A sticker for new drivers. You must display a green sticker with a white letter L on the rear left window of your car. You must keep it on for one year after getting your licence.
How does the Spanish point system work?
You start with points instead of losing them. New drivers start with 8 points. If you do not commit infractions, your balance increases to 12 points after three years, up to a maximum of 15. Committing traffic violations subtracts points.
When do I get the physical licence card?
Within one to two months. After passing the practical test, you receive a temporary paper permit. It is valid for three months. The physical card will arrive by post at your home address.
