Driving in Spain

Every year, thousands of Brits set out on Spanish roads. To ensure your Spanish road trip is as enjoyable as it is memorable, it's important that you learn the country’s driving laws.

What to Do Before You Go

Embarking on your Spanish road trip requires some preliminary checks and arrangements:

• International Driving Permit (IDP). EU, UK and EEA license holders can drive in Spain with their national driving license.
• Car Insurance. This is mandatory in Spain. Make sure your car insurance covers international travel. 
• Breakdown Cover. Not a compulsory thing, but having European breakdown cover provides peace of mind.

Spanish Road Regulations

Familiarise yourself with Spain's driving laws. It is the best way to stay safe and avoid penalties:

• Speed Limits. Limits vary by road type. Generally the limits are 120 km/h on motorways (autopistas), 90-100 km/h on main roads, and 30-50 km/h in towns & cities.
• Alcohol Limit. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 mg/ml, reduced to 0.3 mg/ml for new drivers.
• Safety Gear. You must carry two warning triangles and a reflective vest in your car. In case of a breakdown or emergency, the vest must be put on before you get out of the vehicle.

Licence and Documentation

Ensure you have the following documents at all times when you are driving:

• Your valid driving licence and/or your IDP - if required.
• A valid passport or national ID card.
• The vehicle's insurance certificate and registration document (V5C certificate if from the UK or the equivalent from your country).

Spain's Roads and Highways

Spain has an extensive network of well-maintained roads and highways, including:

• Autopistas (A). These are (sometimes) tolled motorways. They provide the quickest routes between major cities.
• Autovías (E or AP). Free carriageways. Also connecting the major cities but with slightly lower speed limits than the autopistas.
• Carreteras Nacionales (N). National roads – similar in nature to a British A road. These are ideal for enjoying scenic routes and driving between smaller towns.

Tolls in Spain

Spain's toll system varies, with some autopistas requiring payment. 

Tolls can be paid with cash, credit/debit cards, or via electronic toll collection systems. 

Prices depend on the distance travelled and the type of vehicle.

Do I need a GB or UK sticker for driving in Spain?

As of 28th September 2021, the required national identifier on vehicles from the United Kingdom has changed from "GB" to "UK". 

This change mandates that any vehicle registered in the UK must bear the "UK" sticker visibly when driving in Spain. This is regardless of an existing country identifier on your number plate.

Do I need an insurance green card?

Since 2nd August 2021, the need for an insurance green card for UK drivers visiting Spain has been abolished. 

What to Do in an Emergency

Spain's emergency number is 112. In case of an accident or breakdown, use the nearest emergency phone if available or your mobile phone to call for assistance.

Key Driving Tips for Spain

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Use roundabouts with caution; the vehicle inside the roundabout has the right of way unless otherwise signposted.
• Be aware of Spain's strict traffic fines, including heavy penalties for speeding and using a mobile phone without a hands-free system.

Immediate Fines and Payment Policies

In Spain, traffic authorities have the power to issue on-the-spot fines for violations. A notable perk is the opportunity to reduce fines by 50% if the payment is made within 20 days. Contesting a fine is permitted within a 15-day window.

Scale of Fines

Traffic fines in Spain vary significantly, starting at €100 for minor speeding violations and potentially reaching up to €6,000.

Certain violations are classified as criminal offences, carrying the risk of heavier fines, vehicle confiscation, and even imprisonment.

Circumstances Leading to Vehicle Confiscation

Vehicles may be confiscated for various reasons, including mechanical issues, excessive noise/pollution, lack of insurance, refusal to pay fines, or driving under the influence.

Enjoy the Drive

From the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene landscapes of Andalusia, driving in Spain is an unparalleled adventure. 

Respect the rules, embrace the culture, and your Spanish road trip will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Buen viaje!