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Driving in Spain is generally straightforward, but there are some important differences in road rules, driving licences, insurance and vehicle requirements that can catch people out.
This is particularly relevant if you have recently moved to Spain, spend part of the year here, drive a foreign-registered vehicle or are more familiar with driving in the UK.
This guide covers some of the main things residents and visitors should know before getting behind the wheel, including the documents you need, Spanish speed limits, insurance requirements, breakdown procedures and what to do following an accident.
Road traffic rules can change, so always follow current road signs and guidance from the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) .
The licence rules that apply to you depend mainly on where your driving licence was issued and whether you are visiting Spain or living here as a resident.
Visitors with a valid driving licence from another country can normally use it in Spain subject to the rules that apply to that licence.
UK visitors can use a valid UK photocard driving licence in Spain. A provisional UK licence is not valid for driving in Spain. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
If you are visiting Spain, make sure your driving licence is valid for the type of vehicle you are driving and carry it with you while on the road.
Some licences issued outside the EU may also require an International Driving Permit, depending on the country of issue.
If you moved to Spain on or after 16 March 2023, a valid UK or Gibraltar driving licence is recognised for six months from the date you obtained Spanish residence.
After that period, you will need to exchange your licence for a Spanish licence if you want to continue driving legally in Spain. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Driving licence rules depend on your country of issue and residency status. If you are unsure, check the latest requirements with the DGT before driving.
Drivers can be stopped by the police for roadside checks, so it is important to have the correct documents available.
UK government guidance also advises drivers visiting Spain to carry a valid driving licence and ID while driving. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Every vehicle driven on public roads in Spain must have the required insurance in place.
The minimum level of cover is third-party liability insurance. This covers injury or damage caused to other people, vehicles or property if you are responsible for an accident.
Many drivers choose additional protection depending on the age and value of their vehicle, how often they use it and the level of cover they want.
Spanish policies can include features such as breakdown assistance, windscreen cover, legal defence, fire and theft protection and cover for damage to your own vehicle.
For a full explanation of the different levels of cover available, see our Car Insurance in Spain page.
From 1 January 2026, Dragon Insurance can no longer arrange Spanish insurance policies for UK-registered vehicles.
If you live in Spain and intend to keep and use a UK-registered vehicle here long-term, you may need to register the vehicle in Spain before Spanish insurance can be arranged.
If you are changing your vehicle registration or are unsure which insurance options are available, contact the Dragon Insurance team before arranging cover.
Speed limits in Spain depend on the type of road and the area you are driving through. Always follow the posted signs, as lower limits can apply in particular locations.
For cars and motorbikes, the general limits are:
The general maximum speed for cars and motorbikes on motorways and dual carriageways is 120 km/h.
The general maximum speed for cars and motorbikes on conventional interurban roads is 90 km/h.
Urban limits are generally 20, 30 or 50 km/h, depending on the road layout and number of traffic lanes.
In towns and cities, the general limits are:
These are maximum limits rather than target speeds. Drivers are expected to reduce their speed when road, traffic, visibility or weather conditions make it necessary.
For current information, check the DGT website .
Roundabouts are one of the areas where drivers who are new to Spain can become confused.
The basic rule is simple: vehicles already travelling on the roundabout have priority over vehicles entering it.
On a multi-lane roundabout, you should normally move into the outer lane before taking your exit and signal right to show that you are leaving.
If you cannot move safely into the outer lane, continue around the roundabout rather than cutting across another vehicle to reach your exit.
Outside roundabouts, the general rule at an unsigned junction is that traffic approaching from the right has priority. Road signs, traffic lights and road markings take precedence where they are present.
We have covered this in much more detail in our guide to roundabouts in Spain , including lane use, signalling and common mistakes.
UK government guidance also advises drivers visiting Spain to carry a valid driving licence and ID while driving. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
As well as observing speed limits and road signs, there are several everyday driving rules worth remembering when driving in Spain.
Seat belts must be worn by the driver and passengers where fitted, including those travelling in the rear of the vehicle.
Children who are 135 cm tall or under must normally use an approved child restraint suitable for their size and weight and travel in the rear seats, subject to limited exceptions.
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Holding a mobile phone while driving can also result in a fine and penalty points.
Spain has strict drink and drug-driving laws. The safest approach is simple: if you are driving, avoid alcohol completely.
Driving while wearing headphones or earphones connected to audio or communication devices is prohibited.
Always make space for police, ambulances, fire engines and other emergency vehicles using their warning lights or sirens.
Traffic regulations and penalties can change, so check current DGT guidance if you are unsure about a particular rule.
Since 1 January 2026, the connected V-16 emergency beacon has replaced warning triangles as the legal method of signalling a broken-down or immobilised vehicle in Spain.
The beacon is placed on the highest accessible part of the vehicle, where its flashing light can warn approaching traffic.
One of the main advantages is that it can normally be positioned without walking along the road to place warning triangles, reducing the risk of being struck by passing traffic.
The approved connected V-16 also transmits the vehicle's location to the DGT 3.0 platform when activated.
Not every older V-16 light meets the current requirement. If you already own one, check that it is an approved connected model listed by the DGT.
A breakdown can be stressful, particularly on an unfamiliar road. Your first priority should always be keeping yourself, your passengers and other road users safe.
If your vehicle breaks down:
Breakdown assistance is included with many Spanish car insurance policies, but the exact level of assistance varies. Check your policy so you know who to contact before you need help.
If you are involved in an accident, stay calm and make sure everyone is safe before dealing with vehicle damage or insurance details.
If anyone is injured, there is a serious danger to other road users or emergency assistance is needed, call 112.
Stop safely, switch on your hazard lights and use your V-16 beacon where required. Do not put yourself in danger by standing in moving traffic.
Check the people involved and call 112 if anyone is injured or emergency assistance is required.
Exchange contact, vehicle and insurance details with the other driver or drivers involved.
If it is safe, photograph the vehicles, damage, road position, signs, markings and anything else that may help explain what happened.
If possible, complete a European Accident Statement with the other driver, recording the circumstances and details of the vehicles involved.
Report the accident to your insurer or broker as soon as possible and provide the information, photographs and accident form you have collected.
The European Accident Statement — often referred to in Spain as the parte amistoso de accidente — provides a standard way for drivers to record what happened following a road accident.
It records information such as the drivers and vehicles involved, insurance details, visible damage and the circumstances of the accident.
Complete the form carefully and make sure you understand the information recorded before signing it. Each driver should retain a copy to send to their insurer.
Photographs can also be extremely useful, particularly where there is disagreement about vehicle positions, road markings or how the accident occurred.
If your vehicle is registered and insured in Spain, you can normally drive it in other European countries, but the level and duration of insurance cover can vary between policies.
Before travelling, check:
It is worth checking your policy before leaving Spain rather than assuming the same level of protection applies everywhere.
A few of the practical questions drivers often have about using Spain's roads.
Some driving situations deserve a little more explanation. You may also find these guides useful:
A closer look at priority, lane choice, signalling and some of the mistakes that commonly cause confusion on Spanish roundabouts.
Read our guide to roundabouts in SpainLearn about the main levels of car insurance, additional cover options and what to consider when choosing a policy.
Read about car insurance in SpainIf you are moving to Spain, registering a vehicle here or reviewing your current insurance, it can help to speak with someone who understands how Spanish policies work.
Dragon Insurance has been helping residents and expatriates with insurance in Spain since 1998. We can explain the available options, help you compare suitable policies and answer questions about the cover you need.
You can learn more on our Car Insurance in Spain page, send us a WhatsApp message or contact the Dragon Insurance team.
Independent insurance specialists supporting expats and residents across Spain since 1998.
Dragon Insure . All rights reserved.
Independent insurance specialists supporting expats and residents across Spain since 1998.