Driving in Spain Rules that You Need to Know

Never driven in Spain before? Running out on empty and afraid the gas stations will be closed for the afternoon siesta? Not sure what the speed limits are, what documentation is required, or how to pay a fine? If you’re an expat living in Spain or planning to relocate, understanding the local driving rules is crucial for a smooth and safe experience on the roads. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to the country, these rules and expert tips for expat drivers will help you navigate the Spanish roads with confidence. Just sit back, relax, and follow these rules for driving in Spain.

Age and Necessary Documentation to Drive in Spain

To legally drive in Spain, you must be 18 years old or older and have a valid driver’s licence, if you are a citizen of an EU member state, your existing license suffices. However, non-European citizens need an International Driver’s Licence. It’s essential to verify these requirements with your Embassy or Consulate just to double-check that you have everything in order. If you don't, you could end up paying up to 250€ in fines! Always carry a proper ID or passport.

If you want to rent a car, the minimum age to do so is 21 years old, and most rental car companies require you to have had a driver’s licence for at least 1-2 years.

Driving in Spain Rules and Safety Measures

• Mobile Phone usage: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, but hands-free devices are allowed.
• Blood Alcohol Levels: The legal limit for blood alcohol levels is 0.25 mg/l.
• Seatbelts usage: All occupants must wear seatbelts, and children under 12 cannot sit in the front seat.
• Reflective jackets and warning triangle: in the event of an accident or breakdown, wear a reflective jacket, and place a warning triangle behind the vehicle when stopped on the road.
• GPS usage: Programming a GPS while driving is considered an offense.
• Parking regulations: Avoid parking in spaces reserved for disable drivers or in areas with yellow or red-painted curbs.
• License Plate: Ensure your license plate is readable, as tampering can result in fines up to 6,000€.
• Roundabouts: Whenever you approach a roundabout (glorietas or rotondas, in Spanish), the car already circulating in the roundabout has the right of way. Make sure you give drivers in the right-hand lane the right of way.
• Pedestrian Crossings: Pedestrian crossings are marked with black and white striped lines. If there´s no traffic light at the crossing, pedestrians have the right of way.
• Highway Overtaking: Use the left lane on highways to overtake another car. Otherwise, use the right or middle lane.
• Prohibited devices: Radar detectors or headphones cannot be used when driving.
• Horn usage: Use your horn when necessary, within reasonable limits.
• Peaje means toll road.You can pay with cash or credit card. Discover our toll road guide here. 

What you need to know about speed limits

You need to take this matter seriously, since a great percentage of fines are issued for speeding and can reach up to €6,000:

• Up to 50km/h in town, residential, and built-up areas.
• Up to 90km/h out of town.
• Up to 100km/h on dual roads, carriageways, and roads with overtaking lanes.
• Up to 120km/h on motorways.

Points, Licence Removal, and How to Pay a Fine

Understanding the points system is vital to maintaining your driver’s license in Spain. We suggest you read the Spanish DGT official website to get the ins and outs of how the point system works. Some infractions that results in the loss of points may also come with a fine.

Points: You’ll lose points on your driver’s licence if you drive recklessly, drive without your lights on, or park in a bus lane or on the curb. Remember, you can regain up to 6 points by attending a road safety class.

Fines: You can pay your ticket or fine using your credit card by calling 060 (within Spain). Please note this service is only available in Spanish.

• You can also pay your fine online via the Department of Transportation of Spain website. Check this link to find out everything you need to know about what to do when receiving a fine: ¿Qué hacer si has recibido una multa?
• If you’d like to pay your fine in person, go to any Banco or Caja de ahorro or your nearest post office. Check the following link to learn more.
• If a local authority gives you a ticket, we suggest you head directly to the nearest Town Hall.

A huge bonus to keep in mind is that if you pay within 20 days of receiving a ticket or fine, you´ll get a 50% discount.

Benefits of Car Insurance with Caser Expat Insurance

Let’s explore the advantages of choosing Caser Expat Insurance for your car insurance needs. Caser stands out as a reliable and comprehensive option to cover your auto insurance needs while living in Spain. Below, we list some of the advantages offered by:

• Wide coverage: Caser Expat Insurance offers comprehensive coverage to protect your vehicle in different situations, whether in case of accidents, theft, fire, vehicle damage, etc.
• Roadside assistance: Caser includes 24-hour roadside assistance services. This can range from towing to locksmith services and medical assistance. Learn more about Caser roadside assistance.
• Replacement vehicle: In the event that your vehicle is under repair due to an accident covered by the insurance, Caser Expat Insurance provides you with a replacement vehicle so you can keep moving without interruption.
• Fine Management: facilitating the payment process and avoiding possible legal complications.

When considering car insurance in Spain, choosing Caser Expat Insurance provides not only peace of mind on the roads, but also the security of having a reliable company that cares about its customers. You can get your personalized price in less than a minute in our price calculator. With Caser you can drive with confidence and be backed up at all times!

Driving in Spain Rules and Final Tips

Stay informed about road conditions in real time here: road information in real time. In case of a breakdown, adhere to Spanish law by using warning triangles and a high-visibility jacket on the open road. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary documents in your car at all times to avoid any complications.

Beyond the legalities and safety measures, it’s essential to be aware of local customs and driving habits. Spanish roads may differ from those in your home country, so staying attentive and adapting to the local driving culture will enhance your overall driving experience.

By following these driving rules and tips in Spain along with the added protection of Caser Expat Auto Insurance, you can confidently navigate the Spanish roads and enjoy your Expat experience to the fullest. Safe travels!

Oh, remember that there is also a set list of documents you need to have in your car at all times. Don't get caught without them! Discover our guide below: