Driving in Spain: Rules, Requirements, Tips and more

If you are planning driving in Spain for the first time, but you are afraid of not knowing the traffic rules, or not knowing the most fundamental rules, in this article we will help you with any doubts you may have about it.

INDEX

1. Understanding the Basics

Before hitting the road in Spain, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some basic rules and requirements:

Driving Side: Spain drives on the right-hand side of the road.
Minimum Age: The legal driving age is 18. However, you must be 21 if you’re renting a car.
Seatbelts: Mandatory for both front and rear passengers.

2. Rental Car Requirements

If you’re renting a car, ensure you have the following:

Valid Driver’s License: Non-EU tourists need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
Credit Card: Required for car rentals.
Insurance: Basic insurance is typically included, but consider additional coverage for peace of mind.

3. Essential Documents

Always carry these documents while driving:

Driver’s License (and IDP if applicable)
Passport
Car Insurance Certificate
Vehicle Registration Document

4. Speed Limits

Knowing the speed limits can save you from fines:

Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
Rural Roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
Highways: 120 km/h (75 mph)

5. Road Signs

Spanish road signs are generally straightforward but here’s a quick guide:

Circular Signs: Usually indicate mandatory actions or prohibitions.
Triangular Signs: Warning signs.
Rectangular Signs: Provide information.

6. Parking Colours and Times

Understanding the parking colours and times in Spain can help you avoid fines and ensure a smooth experience:

Blue Zones: Paid parking areas usually operate from 9 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and from 9 AM to 2 PM on Saturdays, and you can only stay for a period of maximum 4 hours. Outside these hours and on Sundays, parking is typically free.

Green Zones: Same as Blue Zones but you can only stay for maximum 2 hours. For Residents-only parking, generally enforced from 8 AM to 8 PM on weekdays. During evenings, weekends, and public holidays, parking might be free or available to non-residents, but always check local signs.

White Zones: Free parking areas with no time restrictions. These are usually found in less congested areas.

Yellow Lines: Indicate no-parking zones at any time, with strict enforcement. Be especially cautious around curbs marked with yellow lines to avoid hefty fines or towing.

7. Tolls

Spanish highways and some bridges charge tolls, so keep change handy for these situations. You can also opt to use the electronic “Via T” system which allows you to bypass toll booths with designated lanes.

8. Fuel

Gas stations in Spain are plentiful and usually open from 6 AM to midnight on weekdays, with some open 24/7. On Sundays and public holidays, they may have reduced hours or be closed altogether, so plan accordingly. Make sure to check the fuel type before filling up as diesel is more commonly used than gasoline in Spain. On long trips on the highways, gas stations are usually open 24 hours a day, so don’t worry.

9. Fuel Stations

Fuel stations are widespread. Note:

Self-Service: Common in urban areas.
Full-Service: More likely in rural areas.
Fuel Types: Gasolina (petrol) and Diesel.

10. Roadside Assistance

In case of any emergencies or breakdowns on the road, you can call for roadside assistance by dialing 112. This number will connect you to the national emergency services and they will be able to assist you in English as well.

11. Driving Etiquette

Be mindful of the following etiquette while driving in Spain:

Overtaking: Pass on the left and return to your lane when safe.
Use of Horn: Avoid honking unnecessarily.
Pedestrians: Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and zebra crossings.
Roundabouts: Give way to traffic already on the roundabout and signal when exiting.
Red Lights: Stop at red lights and do not turn right on a red light unless otherwise indicated.
Emergency Vehicles: Move to the side of the road to let emergency vehicles pass.

12. Drinking and Driving

Spain has strict drunk-driving laws:

Blood Alcohol Limit: 0.05% for general drivers, 0.03% for new drivers (less than two years of experience).
Penalties: Include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.

13. Driving in Spain as an EU National

As an EU national, driving in Spain is relatively straightforward. Your EU driving license is valid and recognized, so there’s no need for additional permits. However, you should always carry your driving license, passport, and proof of insurance while driving. If you plan to stay in Spain for an extended period or become a resident, it is recommended to register with the local traffic authorities.

14. Driving in Spain as a Non-EU Citizen

For non-EU citizens, driving in Spain requires some additional steps compared to EU nationals. First and foremost, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your valid driving license from your home country. This permit must be obtained before your arrival in Spain, as it is not possible to apply for it within Spanish territory. The IDP is generally valid for one year, so if you plan on staying longer, you will need to exchange your foreign driving license for a Spanish one.

Non-EU drivers must always carry their IDP, original driving license, passport, and proof of insurance while driving. Failure to present these documents can result in fines or other penalties.

If you intend to become a resident in Spain, you will need to go through the process of obtaining a Spanish driving license. This generally involves passing both a theoretical and practical driving test, and it’s obligatory to take some driving lessons from a certified driving school to better understand the specific rules and driving style in Spain.

15. Traffic Fines in Spain

Driving in Spain requires adherence to specific traffic regulations to avoid penalties and maintain road safety. Traffic fines can be issued for a wide range of offences, from speeding to parking violations, and can vary depending on the severity of the infringement. The most common fines include:

Speeding: Fines for speeding can range from €100 to €600, depending on the extent to which the speed limit was exceeded. In severe cases, it could also result in the suspension of your driving license.

Parking Violations: Unlawful parking can result in fines ranging from €80 to €200. Vehicles parked in restricted zones may also be towed, incurring additional retrieval costs.

Using a Mobile Phone: Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free system can lead to a fine of up to €200 and the deduction of 3 points from your driving license.

Driving Under the Influence: The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe, with fines starting from €500 and potentially leading to imprisonment, especially for repeat offenders. Drivers can also lose their license for up to four years.

Seatbelt and Child Restraints: Failing to wear a seatbelt or not using appropriate child restraints can result in a fine of €200 and the deduction of 3 points from your license.

Traffic fines in Spain can be paid online through the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) website or at designated banks. It is often possible to receive a 50% discount on the fine if it is paid within 20 days of the notification. To avoid these fines, obey the traffic laws diligently and always drive responsibly.