Obtaining a Spanish driver’s license can be an important endeavor for anyone planning on spending a significant time in Spain. At Lusa Legal, we know everything there is to know about driving in Spain, and we can help you get driver license in Spain or exchange your out-of-country license for a valid Spanish one.
What are the Requirements to be Eligible to Drive in Spain?
In order to be eligible to drive in Spain, you must be over the age of 18. You must also hold either a valid Spanish driver’s license or you must hold a valid license from the country in which you reside. If you are an EU/EAA national, you may use your non-Spanish license for up to two years in Spain. If you are a non-EU resident, your national driver’s license is only eligible for six months.
Can I Exchange my License for a Spanish Driver’s License?
The simple answer to this question is yes! Spain has an agreement with over twenty different countries that will allow you to exchange of driving license in Spain. These countries include:
- Andorra
- Japan
- Korea
- Switzerland
- Algeria
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Bolivia
- Chile
- Colombia
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Guatemala
- Macedonia
- Morocco
- Nicaragua
- Peru
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Philippines
- Serbia
- Turkey
- Tunisia
- Ukraine
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
Spain also has agreements with other organizations such as diplomats and certain international organizations, educational facilities, the military and police organizations that allow for a simple license exchange as well. Individuals and some family members of these organizations may not have to undergo the usual Spanish licensing requirements.
What Documents are Required to Exchange my Driving License?
Depending upon which country or which organization you have obtained your license from, the following documentation may be required:
- A completed license exchange application form.
- A passport or national identity card.
- A valid Spanish residence permit or residency card.
- A recognized medical fitness report.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Two recent photographs.
- A declaration that your license is valid and you have not been suspended from driving in your home country.
Will I need to take a Driving Test in Spain?
If your country of origin is Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa or the United States, you are required to take a Spanish driving test in order to get driver licence. To obtain your license, you must first apply at the Provincial Traffic Headquarters (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico). You will be required to successfully pass a mental and physical fitness evaluation from the Authorised Drivers’ Check Centre (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores Autorizado) and must also provide the following documentation:
- A license application form.
- Two recent photographs.
- Your Spanish resident permit.
- Proof of address.
- A declaration that you are legally allowed to drive.
- Proof that you have completed a valid driver’s course through an approved driving school.
The Spanish driving test consists of two parts; a written, multiple choice section and an in car, practical evaluation.
If you are looking for more information on the driving laws in Spain, you wish to obtain a new Spanish driver’s license or you would like an exchange of driving license in Barcelona, Lusa Legal’s team of professionals can help. No matter what country you originate from or what your license needs are, we have the knowledge and experience to help you through the Spanish licensing process with ease. Contact us for consultation:
+34 661 80 08 99 (Send us a WhatsApp message, and we will reply as soon as possible)
Service Price*
€ 500
* Estimated service price, total amount will depend on the particular case and additional services required.
VAT is not included in the price.