How To Drive in Spain

Monday May 28th , 2007

From nipping to the “Supermercado” to a road trip through rugged mountains, driving in Spain will open up your world. So how do you get yourself legally, affordably and safely in the driving seat? Here’s how:

Buy a Spanish car

Cars are much cheaper in Spain so we recommend you sell your current vehicle in the UK and buy a new one here. This means you can invest in a newer, better model, with the benefit of left hand drive and it will be easy to sell when you fancy an upgrade.

Take your own car

Of course if you don’t want to part with your British car, you can bring it to Spain with you, register it here and get Spanish plates.

Your car must be registered at the same time, or soon after you apply for ‘Residencia’ (To stay for over six months). It’s a complicated process that involves pulling together several pieces of original documentation. If you’re not fluent in Spanish it will be easier for you if we arrange it on your behalf.

Licenses and laws

All drivers must carry:

• A current driving licence, preferably an EU license (with the EU logo). If you live here permanently, you’ll need a Spanish licence when your current one expires.
• Two EU approved, red warning triangles and reflective jackets that must be worn outside the car in the event of a breakdown
• Spare lamps for your car, don’t forget you’ll also need any tools to change the bulbs
• An EU number plate or your “GB” plate or sticker on the rear of the car
• Valid insurance
• Your vehicle documents
• EU approved child seats for children

Need to knows

It’s a good idea to buy a guide and read in more detail about traffic laws, road signs and legal requirements for driving in Spain, but here are a few things you’ll need to know:

• Never drink and drive. Spain’s legal alcohol limits are lower than in the UK.
• Only park where parking signs are displayed, to avoid heavy fines and the tow truck
• Make sure children under 12 years old sit in the back because, unless you have approved child seats, it’s illegal for them to sit up front
• Don’t forget to drive on the right. Take special care on roundabouts, when first driving off, after being parked for a time and when overtaking.