Exploring Spain by car is one of the best ways to discover its sun-drenched beaches, historic towns, and scenic mountain routes. If you hold a UK driving licence, it’s important to understand the rules before you get behind the wheel. From post-Brexit regulations to car hire age limits, here’s everything you need to know about driving in Spain with a UK licence.
- Can I drive in Spain with my UK driving licence?
- Driving in Spain: key rules to follow
- Speed limits, tolls, and low-emission zones
- UK sticker and vehicle insurance
- Renting a car in Spain: age rules and tips
- Becoming a resident in Spain: exchanging your UK licence
- FAQs
- Key takeaways for Brits driving in Spain
Can I drive in Spain with my UK driving licence?
Yes. UK licence holders can drive in Spain for short visits using a valid photocard driving licence. You do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you hold a modern UK photocard licence and are visiting temporarily (holidays, business trips, or stays of up to six months).
However, there are exceptions:
- Paper licences (pre-2000) may not be accepted by car hire companies, so an IDP is strongly recommended.
- Licences issued in the Isle of Man, Jersey, or Guernsey are not always recognised and may require an IDP or separate approval.
- Expired licences cannot be used for driving in Spain; an IDP does not replace a valid licence.
Tip: Always check with your car hire company in advance if you hold an older or non-standard licence.
Driving in Spain: key rules to follow
Driving in Spain is generally similar to the UK, but some differences are crucial:
- Drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left.
- Roundabouts: give way to vehicles already on the roundabout.
- Documentation: carry your UK driving licence, passport, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration document (or rental agreement if hiring).
- Safety equipment: Spanish law requires reflective jackets for all passengers, a warning triangle, and headlamp beam deflectors for right-hand-drive vehicles. Rental companies usually include these, but you must provide them if driving your own car.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and rear.
Speed limits, tolls, and low-emission zones
- Speed limits (general rules):
- Motorways (autopistas): 120 km/h
- Single carriageways: 90 km/h
- Built-up areas: 50 km/h
- Tolls (peajes): Many motorways require payment via cash or card.
- Low-emission zones (ZBE/Zona de Bajas Emisiones): Cities like Madrid and Barcelona restrict vehicles based on DGT environmental stickers (0, Eco, C, B). Check city-specific rules before entering. Foreign vehicles may face restrictions if they cannot obtain a sticker.
- Fines: Speed cameras are common. Fines can be issued on the spot or sent to the UK address.
UK sticker and vehicle insurance
When driving a UK-registered car in Spain, you must display a UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle, even if your number plate already shows a Union flag, as the old “GB” sticker is no longer valid. It’s also essential to check that your insurance policy covers driving in Spain. Most UK insurers provide at least third-party cover across Europe, but it’s a good idea to confirm this and consider comprehensive protection for extra peace of mind.
Renting a car in Spain: age rules and tips
Before booking a rental car, it’s useful to understand the age and licence requirements, as well as potential extra charges that may apply:
- Minimum age is usually 21 years, with a full licence held for at least 12 months.
- Some vehicle categories may require drivers to be 23 or 25.
- Drivers under 25 often pay a young driver surcharge.
- Older drivers (typically over 75) may require additional insurance, depending on the company.
- Always read the rental terms carefully.
Becoming a resident in Spain: exchanging your UK licence
If you move to Spain permanently:
- You can drive on your UK licence for up to six months from the date of obtaining residency.
- After this period, you should exchange your UK licence for a Spanish one.
- The UK–Spain reciprocal agreement (March 2023) allows licence exchange without taking a driving test, provided your licence is valid and meets eligibility criteria.
- Requirements for exchange include:
- Valid UK licence (photocard)
- Proof of residency
- Identity documents
- Fee payment (around €28.87)
- A basic medical check
- Not all licences are eligible; check with Spain’s traffic authority (DGT) or expat support services.
FAQs
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Spain?
No, if you hold a modern UK photocard licence. Older paper licences or those from Isle of Man, Jersey, or Guernsey may require an IDP.
Can I drive in Spain with a UK licence after Brexit?
Yes, for short visits up to six months. Long-term residents must exchange their licence for a Spanish one.
What safety equipment is required in Spain?
Reflective jackets for all passengers, warning triangle, and headlamp beam deflectors (for right-hand-drive vehicles). Carry your licence, passport, insurance, and registration.
Are there age restrictions for renting a car?
Yes. Minimum age is usually 21, with a full licence held for 12 months. Some premium cars require 23 or 25. Surcharges may apply to young or older drivers.
What are low-emission zones (ZBE) in Spain?
Cities like Madrid and Barcelona restrict vehicles based on DGT environmental stickers. Check rules before entering.
Key takeaways for Brits driving in Spain
For most tourists, driving in Spain with a UK licence is straightforward. With a valid photocard licence, proper insurance, safety equipment, and awareness of local rules and low-emission zones, you can enjoy Spain’s roads confidently.
Always check recent updates from the UK Government and DGT, and scan or photograph your documents before travel for peace of mind.
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