Driving in Spain in 2025: Updated rules for EU and non-EU license holders

Published: August 2025

If you’re moving to Spain or already living here as an expat, understanding the latest rules for driving licenses is essential. In 2025, Spain follows EU-wide harmonization, making it easier for most EU/EEA citizens to drive legally without unnecessary bureaucracy. However, there are still important differences depending on where your license was issued. Here’s what you need to know about using your driving license in Spain as a foreign resident.

EU/EØS driving licenses: No mandatory exchange

If you hold a valid driving license from another EU or EEA country, you can legally drive in Spain without exchanging your license. There is no general requirement to swap your EU license for a Spanish one simply because you become resident.

• Validity: Your EU/EEA license is valid as long as it is up to date and not suspended or revoked in your home country.
• Renewal: If your license expires while you are resident in Spain, you must renew it with the Spanish authorities (DGT). You will then receive a Spanish license.
• Unlimited Validity: If your EU license is issued with unlimited validity, you must exchange it for a Spanish one after 2 years of residence.
• Traffic Offenses: Spanish authorities may require you to exchange your license if you commit certain offenses or if your license is lost or stolen.
• Voluntary Exchange: You can choose to exchange your EU/EEA license for a Spanish one at any time if you prefer.

UK and non-EU Licenses: what applies in 2025?

For UK citizens, post-Brexit agreements mean you can now exchange your UK license for a Spanish one without taking a driving test, provided it’s valid and you apply within the legal timeframe after becoming resident. For other non-EU countries, the rules depend on bilateral agreements:

• Countries with Agreements: Citizens from countries with a bilateral agreement (e.g. UK, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea) can exchange their license for a Spanish one without a test, within 6 months of obtaining residency.
• Countries without Agreements: If your country does not have an agreement with Spain (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia), you must obtain a Spanish license by passing both the theory and practical driving tests in Spain.
• 6-Month Rule: Non-EU licenses are only valid for 6 months after you become resident. After that, you must either exchange (if possible) or obtain a Spanish license.

How to exchange your license (If required)

1. Check Eligibility: See if your country has an agreement with Spain on the DGT website.
2. Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment at your local DGT office (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico).
3. Prepare Documents:
   • Valid passport and NIE
   • Proof of residency (empadronamiento)
   • Your original driving license
   • Recent passport photo
   • Medical fitness certificate (psicotécnico)
   • Completed application form and proof of payment
4. Process: The DGT will keep your original license and issue a Spanish one, usually within 1–2 months.

Special cases & practical tips

• Always carry your driving license, passport/NIE, and proof of insurance when driving in Spain.
• If your license is not in Spanish, it’s recommended to have an official translation or International Driving Permit (IDP) for short stays.
• Never drive with an expired license – renew it promptly to avoid fines.
• For rental cars, EU/EEA licenses are always accepted; non-EU licenses may require an IDP.
• Stay updated with the latest rules on the DGT website.

FAQ

Do I need to exchange my EU license just because I move to Spain?
No, as long as it’s valid and not unlimited. You only need to exchange if it expires, is lost, or is issued with unlimited validity (after 2 years).

What if my country doesn’t have an agreement with Spain?
You’ll need to pass the Spanish driving theory and practical tests to get a Spanish license.

Can I voluntarily exchange my EU license for a Spanish one? Yes,
you can apply for an exchange at any time if you prefer a Spanish license.

What about UK licenses post-Brexit?
UK licenses can be exchanged for Spanish ones without a test, if you apply within the legal timeframe after residency.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check with the DGT or your local traffic authority for the latest updates.