Toll Roads, Speed Cameras & Fines in Spain: A 2025 Survival Guide for Expats
Driving in Spain offers the freedom to explore its diverse landscapes, but it’s crucial to understand the local road systems—especially toll roads, speed enforcement, parking restrictions, and new mobility rules.
This guide provides expats with essential information to navigate Spain’s roads safely and legally in 2025.
1. Understanding Spain’s Toll Roads
Spain’s toll roads, known as “autopistas de peaje”, are primarily found along the Mediterranean coast and major routes from Madrid. These roads are marked with “AP” prefixes and are well-maintained, offering faster travel options.
Toll fees vary based on distance and vehicle type, typically ranging from €5 to €30. Payment methods include:
- Cash
- Credit/debit cards
- Electronic systems like VIA-T
Key Toll Roads in Spain:
- AP-7: France A9 to Barcelona to Valencia to Guadiaro
- AP-68: Bilbao to Zaragoza
- AP-9: Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela to Portugal A3
👉 View the RAC guide on Spanish toll roads
2. Speed Limits and Enforcement
Speed limits in Spain are clearly defined and strictly enforced:
- Motorways (Autopistas): 120 km/h
- Main Roads (Carreteras): 100 km/h
- Urban Areas: 30–50 km/h
⚠️ Fines for speeding can be steep. For example, exceeding the limit by 21–30 km/h may result in a €300 fine and 2 points deducted from your licence.
3. Types of Speed Enforcement
Spain uses a variety of speed monitoring methods:
- Fixed Speed Cameras: Margin of 3% over the limit
- Mobile Speed Cameras: Operated by police, margin of 5%
- Drones & Helicopters: Monitor traffic and detect offences
- New Radar Systems: Detect sudden braking near cameras to catch “last-minute” speeders
🚨 In 2025, the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) is installing 122 new speed-control cameras across the country.
4. Traffic Offences and Penalties
Traffic violations are classified into Minor, Serious, and Very Serious:
Minor Offences
- Examples: Slight speeding, parking incorrectly
- Fines: Up to €100
Serious Offences
- Examples: Speeding by 21–50 km/h, mobile use while driving
- Fines: €200–€500
- Points Deducted: 2 to 4
Very Serious Offences
- Examples: 50+ km/h over limit, drink driving, reckless endangerment
- Fines: €500–€1,000
- Points Deducted: 6
- Other Penalties: Licence suspension or imprisonment
🔗 Full breakdown of traffic fines – Suma Tax Administration
5. Parking and Parking Restrictions in Spain
General Parking Rules:
- Blue Zones (Zona Azul): Paid parking zones, typically 2-hour limits. Use the meter or a mobile app to pay.
- Green Zones (Zona Verde): Reserved for residents. Non-residents may be fined for parking here during restricted hours.
- Yellow Lines: Strictly no parking. Your vehicle could be fined or towed.
Fines & Enforcement:
- Illegal parking fines range from €80 to €200
- Towing fees may apply if the car obstructs traffic or is parked in a restricted zone
- Pay fines early (within 20 days) to get a 50% discount
💡 Tip: Download apps like EasyPark or Telpark for digital payments and reminders on time limits.
6. Rules for Bikes, eBikes & Electric Scooters (VMPs)
In Spain, electric scooters and personal mobility vehicles (VMPs) are increasingly regulated. As of 2025:
Bicycles:
- Helmets are mandatory outside urban areas for all riders and for under-16s in cities
- Must use bike lanes when available
- Riding on pavements is forbidden
eScooters & VMPs:
- Max speed: 25 km/h
- Must not ride on pavements or motorways
- Riders must wear reflective clothing at night or in low visibility
- From 2024, insurance is required in many cities
- Fines for non-compliance: €200–€500
📌 Some cities (like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia) now require registration of eScooters with the local traffic authority.
7. Tips for Expats Driving in Spain
- Use Navigation Apps: Waze or Google Maps alert for speed cameras and tolls
- Drive Consistently: Avoid sudden braking near radars
- Carry Documents: Always have your licence, insurance, and registration
- Know Regional Laws: Traffic regulations may vary by autonomous community
- Respect Parking Zones: Especially in cities where enforcement is high
- Know EV Charging Rules: If using an electric vehicle, research charging stations ahead
Conclusion
Driving in Spain offers incredible freedom, but understanding the local driving laws—including tolls, speed enforcement, parking rules, and mobility regulations—is essential for expats in 2025. Stay informed, drive responsibly, and you’ll enjoy the journey without the unexpected fines.
For expert help with your move to Spain or vehicle relocation, contact Matthew James Removals Spain.
