Why Should You Apply for a Spanish Driver's License?

If you move to Spain and are officially registered as a resident, you are required to apply for a Spanish driver's license. This is to comply with Spanish traffic laws and avoid fines. The process of exchanging a driver's license in Spain may vary depending on your nationality and current driver's license.

When Do You Need a Spanish Driver's License?

If you are officially a resident in Spain, you are required to apply for a Spanish driver's license in the following cases:

• You have a driver's license from an EU country: Although you can initially continue using your EU driver's license, you must register your license with the Spanish traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). This is mandatory if you have lived in Spain for more than two years.
• Your driver's license is from a non-EU country: In many cases, a driver's license from a non-EU country is only valid in Spain for a limited time (usually six months after registering as a resident). After that, you must apply for a Spanish driver's license or retake the driving test.
• Your driver's license is expiring: If your EU driver's license expires while living in Spain, you must apply for a Spanish driver's license, as renewing a foreign license in Spain is not possible.
• Your driver's license has no expiration date: A special case concerns Belgian driver's licenses without an expiration date. Spanish law requires that driver's licenses undergo periodic medical fitness checks. As a result, you must convert a Belgian driver's license without an expiration date into a Spanish driver's license. This means you must also meet medical requirements and undergo a medical check-up. Note: The old paper driver's license without an expiration date remains valid in Belgium until 2033 (according to FOD Mobility). From 2033 onwards, the European bank card-style license will be mandatory.

When Must You Exchange Your Driver's License in Spain?

According to Spanish law, you must exchange your foreign driver's license if you:

• Have lived in Spain for more than six months as an EU citizen.
• Need a Spanish driver's license for professional reasons.
• Have a non-EU driver's license that is not recognized by Spain.

Documents Required to Apply for a Spanish Driver's License

To apply for a driver's license in Spain as an expat, you must gather the following documents:

• A valid passport or residence card.
• Your current driver's license.
• Proof of registration as a resident in Spain.
• A medical report confirming your fitness to drive. Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores
• The completed DGT application form.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• Proof of payment for administrative fees.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Speak Spanish (or bring someone who does): While some DGT offices have English-speaking staff, it is helpful to speak Spanish or bring someone who can assist you.
• Be patient: The process can take several weeks, especially if you need to exchange a driver's license or if there are many applications.
• Obtain a medical report: This is an essential part of the application and is often overlooked. Visit a recognized medical center for a short test of your vision, hearing, and reflexes.

How to Apply for a Spanish Driver's License?

The process of applying for a Spanish driver's license involves several steps:

1. Gather all required documents.
2. Undergo a medical examination at a recognized medical center.
3. Complete the application form and schedule an appointment with the Spanish traffic authority (DGT).
4. Pay the application fee and submit your documents.
5. Wait for processing and receive your new Spanish driver's license.

Costs and Additional Expenses

In addition to the standard €24 fee for the DGT, there may be additional costs for:

• The medical report: between €30 and €50, depending on the center.
• Passport photos: on average €5 to €10.

Why a Spanish Driver's License?

A Spanish driver's license offers several benefits:

• It serves as a valid form of identification within Spain.
• You no longer need to worry about the validity of your foreign driver's license.
• It simplifies procedures such as renewing your license or handling fines.

Conclusion

Applying for a Spanish driver's license is an important process for expats who want to reside in Spain permanently. By submitting the correct documents on time and carefully following the application procedure, you ensure that you can continue driving in Spain without any issues.

Need help with exchanging your driver's license in Spain? Contact a specialist or visit the official website of DGT for the latest information.