If you are planning on buying property on the Costa Blanca North and plan to relocate permanently to Spain, understanding the rules surrounding a Spanish driving licence is essential. Whether you are moving to Moraira, Javea, Benissa, Calpe, Altea, Denia or the Jalon Valley, this guide explains the current requirements for EU and non-EU residents.
The legal age to drive in Spain is 18. You cannot drive in Spain under this age, even if you have a valid licence from another country.
EU nationals can drive in Spain on their foreign licence for up to two years as a legal resident in Spain but must register their licence with the traffic authorities (DGT) within six months of moving to Spain. Once at the DGT you will undergo a medical examination at an authorised centre. This usually includes checks on your blood pressure, eyesight and reaction times using simple simulations.
After these first two years it is necessary to exchange your licence for a Spanish one, which for EU nationals is a relatively simple process.
You will need to bring the following documents to the DGT:
You do not have to wait two years to exchange your licence. It can be done voluntarily at any time beforehand and, if your licence is likely to expire during that period, you can renew and convert it to a Spanish licence automatically.
For non-EU nationals you can only drive on a foreign licence for six months once you become an official resident. You must also carry either an official translation of your licence or an International Driving Permit. This should be obtained in your home country before becoming a Spanish resident.
After the six-month period you will need to exchange your licence for a Spanish one or obtain a Spanish licence by retaking your driving test. However, not all countries have licence exchange agreements with Spain, so this is something worth checking in advance.
Following Brexit, British citizens need to exchange their driving licence. You will need to apply either online or in person at a DGT office, submitting the following documentation:
If you choose to exchange your licence online via the DGT website, once all documents have been submitted you will receive a printable temporary licence. You will then need to make an appointment at the DGT office to hand in your old licence and receive your new Spanish licence.
If you apply in person, you will need to make an appointment to submit your documentation at the DGT office. They will issue you with a temporary licence before your new licence is sent to your home address. The temporary licence is valid for three months.
If you have not previously held a driving licence, you must be a legal resident to take a Spanish driving test. Applications can only be made at the DGT office in the province where you are resident. The test consists of both a theory and practical examination and the following documents are required:
You will also need to enrol with an official driving school.
Your Spanish driving licence is generally valid for ten years from the date of issue and must be renewed at the end of this period until you reach the age of 65. After this, licences are renewed every five years.
Full details of the renewal process are available on the DGT website, but it is advisable to begin your application at least three months before your current licence expires.
You will normally need to provide:
There are numerous centres where you can arrange the required medical examination. Simply search for your nearest Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores. Many of these authorised medical centres can also process your renewal application and issue a temporary driving licence while your new licence is being sent to your home address.
If your address has changed, remember to obtain an up-to-date Padrón certificate before attending your appointment.
Whether you are relocating permanently or purchasing a holiday home that may become your future residence, understanding local requirements such as driving licences, residency and registration can make your move to Spain much easier.
The multilingual team at Hamiltons Real Estate has helped buyers from across the UK, Europe and beyond purchase property throughout the Costa Blanca North. From villas in Moraira and Benissa to apartments in Calpe, homes in Javea, Altea, Denia and the beautiful Jalon Valley, we are here to guide you through every stage of buying property in Spain.
Yes. The rules depend on whether you are an EU or non-EU resident and how long you have been legally resident in Spain.
Yes. Following Brexit, UK residents living in Spain must exchange their driving licence in accordance with current DGT regulations.
Applications, exchanges and renewals are handled by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT).
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Updated July 2026 by the Hamiltons Real Estate team.
