Driving in Spain: A Complete 2025 Guide for Expats By Matthew James Removals Spain
Whether you’re relocating to the Costa del Sol or setting up life in Barcelona, understanding how to legally and safely drive in Spain is crucial. For many expats, driving offers freedom and flexibility—but the rules and procedures may not be as straightforward as you’d expect.
At Matthew James Removals Spain, we don’t just help you move with our removals to Spain service—we support your full transition.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything expats need to know about driving in Spain in 2025.
1. Driving in Spain with a Foreign Licence?
EU/EEA Citizens
If you hold a valid driving licence from an EU or EEA country, you can continue driving in Spain without exchanging it—at least until it expires. However, you must register with DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) after 6 months of residency.
UK Licence Holders (Post-Brexit)
Thanks to the 2023 UK-Spain driving agreement, UK licence holders no longer need to retake a test in Spain. You can drive with your UK licence for up to 6 months after registering as a resident, after which you’ll need to exchange it for a Spanish one.
2. How to Exchange Your Licence in Spain
To exchange your licence (canje de permiso de conducir), you’ll need:
- Valid foreign driving licence
- NIE number
- Residency certificate
- Passport
- Two passport-size photos
- Medical fitness certificate (from an authorised centro médico)
- Completed application form from the DGT website
You must make an appointment online with your local DGT office: 🔗 DGT Appointments
3. Spanish Driving Laws You Might Not Know
Here are some Spanish road rules that may surprise new drivers:
- No mobile phones, even on speaker—use hands-free only.
- Reflective jackets & warning triangles are mandatory if you break down.
- You must carry your driving licence, NIE, insurance, and vehicle documents at all times.
- Speed limits: 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 30 km/h in cities.
Fines can be hefty—and police often ask for payment on the spot if you’re a foreigner.
4. Renting or Buying a Car in Spain as an Expat
Renting a car is straightforward with a foreign licence and passport, though a credit card is typically required. For long-term residents, buying a car means navigating vehicle registration, insurance, and potentially import tax if bringing your car from abroad.
At Matthew James, we offer vehicle transport services and can advise you on importing your vehicle or buying locally.
5. Tips for Driving Safely on Spanish Roads
- Use Google Maps or Waze to avoid tolls and traffic cameras.
- Practice patience: driving culture varies across regions.
- Learn key Spanish road signs—many are quite different from UK or U.S. signage.
- Watch out for roundabouts: vehicles already on the roundabout generally have the right of way, but local rules sometimes vary.
6. What About Motorbikes, Scooters, or E-Scooters?
Yes, expats can ride scooters and e-scooters—but with conditions:
- A car licence (B) allows you to ride a 125cc motorbike in Spain after 3 years.
- Helmets are mandatory.
- Many towns now regulate e-scooters with local by-laws—always check before riding.
7. What Happens if You’re Pulled Over?
Stay calm. Spanish police are professional and direct.
You’ll need to show:
- Licence
- Vehicle logbook
- Insurance details
- Passport/NIE
Fines can often be paid online or at banks, but traffic police may request card payment on the spot if you’re not registered as a resident.
8. Need Help Bringing Your Vehicle to Spain?
If you’re relocating, you may want to bring your vehicle with you—especially for long stays for driving in Spain.
Matthew James Removals Spain provides a full vehicle transportation service, including:
- UK-to-Spain and Spain-to-UK delivery
- Custom documentation
- Fully insured, GPS-tracked vehicles
Conclusion: Drive Smart, Drive Safe in Spain
Driving in Spain gives you the freedom to explore, connect, and settle in—but only if you understand the rules, paperwork, and cultural nuances. Whether you’re navigating roundabouts in Malaga or scenic roads in Valencia, the key is preparation.
Need help moving, transporting your car, or planning your relocation?
Contact the experts at Matthew James Removals Spain for full support—from door-to-door removals to vehicle logistics.
FAQs
1. Can I drive in Spain with a UK licence in 2025?
Yes—for the first 6 months after becoming a resident. After that, you must exchange it for a Spanish licence.
2. Is it easy to rent a car in Spain as an expat?
Yes, but you’ll need a valid licence, passport, and often a credit card.
3. Can I import my UK car to Spain?
Yes, but it must be registered within 6 months. We offer full vehicle import and registration support.
4. Do I need an international driving permit in Spain?
Not if you’re from the UK, EU, or EEA. Other nationalities may need an IDP.
5. What should I keep in my car in Spain?
Mandatory items: reflective jacket, warning triangle, spare bulbs, insurance documents, and driving licence.
