Spain’s great transportation system throughout the country has always made travelling here very pleasurable. The larger capital cities have a very accessible metro system in addition to the trains and buses which also provide easy access between the larger cities and smaller pueblos.
However, the modern day car is now becoming one of Spain’s primary sources of transportation.
As Spain’s economy grows, more people are able to afford vehicles, car insurance and the costly driver’s license exams. However, many younger people are still opting for a motorcycle license which is much easier to obtain and less expensive.
Driving in Spain as a foreigner is fairly easy, signage is very well laid out along the motorways but it can also be inconsistent. This is why it is always handy to have a good road map with you! There are usually two main motorways going to the larger cities, one of which is the toll road which generally has less traffic and is more direct.
However, tolls can be steep (3-5 euros) and once you are on you do not have the opportunity to get off at as many stops as the regular motorway. Make sure you want to be on the toll road before getting on otherwise you will spend a lot of time trying to back track!
Many visitors to Spain tend to stay in larger cities such as Marbella, rent a car and take day trips into the beautiful rustic white villages in the heart of Andalucia. For example, getting to the white village of Setenil is easy enough but very tricky to navigate the narrow winding and hilly cobbled streets once there.
Keep in mind that many of these village roads historically were used and made primarily for the horses and mule carts (and goats in some pueblos) and have not yet been converted to vehicle-worthy streets. The best bet is to park in the nearest parking lot or city center and leave the car.
Get out on foot and meander the charming cobbled streets lined by blossoming flower pots. Remember, you are on vacation and should not be bothered getting lost or stuck which will surely happen when entering these mazes, none of the streets are perpendicular or parallel, street names hidden in unusual places and the curious stares of the locals can oftentimes be intimidating!
While driving in the interior of Spain, between the pueblos, it is not unusual to see signs, “Carretera en mal estado” (road in bad shape). This essentially is a warning to “pay attention!”. Pot holes, narrow curvy roads and unmarked lane divisions are typical. Many of the locals, who know the roads well, drive like it is a normal highway, not hesitating to pass slower cars in blind curves.
Spanish drivers seem to always be in a hurry, driving fast, flashing head lights and honking the horn if you hesitate at all once the street light turns green. Also, we definitely cannot ignore the ever-present buzz of motorcycles and scooters zipping around…… beware and watch out before you cross the street! But do not let this unnerve you, the most important thing is to drive safely.
The driving laws are now being more strictly enforced than previous years to decrease the amount of fatal car accidents on the road due to reckless and drunk driving. Recently, there has been a lot of hype in regards to the enforcement of the points system which started July 1st, of 2006.
In addition to the fines and penalties a driver receives for any wrongdoing, points are deducted which can result in having ones “carnet de conducir” (Spanish drivers license) revoked temporarily and sometimes permanently for repeat offenders. However, this point system is only applicable to people holding a Spanish drivers license.
Below are guidelines for driving in Spain whether you are an EU resident or non-EU resident. Buying vehicles, drivers license restrictions and such are among the many questions asked by people.
Spanish law requires the following of drivers:
• Driving license, car document and insurance be carried at all times.
• Seat belts are worn front and back at all times.
• Less than 25mg/100ml of alcohol be in the blood (much less than many other countries – only one small glass of wine or beer!)
• Two reflective warning road triangles be carried
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving unless completely hands off system.
• Children under 12 are not permitted in front seats or on a motorcycle.
• Radar detectors are illegal as is warning drivers behind of a checkpoint.
• Follow the speed limit signs posted
• Give way to the right
• Priority is to those already on a roundabout
• Helmets are compulsory on all bikes at all times, even on small motorbikes under 50cc.
If you are a resident and are stopped and fined by the police for violating a traffic law, offenders may obtain a 30% discount for prompt payment or may pay a policeman on the spot. Non resident tourists are usually fined on the spot to guarantee payment, which may later be contested in court.
Fines generally range from 302 to 602 euros (and possible license suspension of 3 months) for “very serious” infractions of the law such as speeding, drunk or reckless driving. Fines from 91 to 302 euros and possible suspension of the drivers license for “serious” infractions such as speeding, negligence and parking in a dangerous spot. Minor penalties for parking tickets and such are up to 91 euros.
Drunk Driving
Being that there are more national days of “fiesta” than work days marked on the calendar, it is not surprising that so many people drive above the legal alcohol limit (less than 25mg/100ml) in Spain. The stricter enforcement of preventing drunk driving is one of Spain’s priorities.
It is a common sight now to see a Guardia Civil road block to test drivers for alcohol levels- any day and any time. As much as one or two glasses of wine may put some people over the legal limit depending on ones individual metabolic rate. If the breath test is positive, there will surely be a penalty and it will definitely be an expensive and time consuming process (six – nine months minimum) to resolve. Fines of up to €450 and license suspension or termination (if alcohol levels are high or if driver is a repeat offender).
Driving while under suspension will result in a fine of between €94 and €1,503 together with a further suspension for one year. And if you are foolish enough to try to get away with it a second time, your driving license will be permanently withdrawn.
The fact that driving with alcohol in your system is proven to impede driving abilities, coupled with the tricky roads that demand all your attention and concentration, it really is not worth the risk. Dealing with this situation in your own country is one thing, but to be a foreigner trying to battle the Spanish legal system with a poor understanding of the Spanish language would be a nightmare. Assign a designated driver each time to keep everyone safe and sound.
Drivers Licences
If you are here on holiday in Spain and hold a valid driving license from your home country, any foreigner may legally drive in Spain, whether it is your own car from outside of Spain, or a rented or borrowed vehicle. However, if you are a EU citizen or a non-EU citizen and a new resident of Spain things get a bit trickier.
EU citizens holding a drivers license from outside of Spain technically must change their drivers license for a Spanish “carnet de conducir” once you become a resident in Spain, you have six months to transfer licenses. This can be very time consuming and frustrating due to the bureaucracy and language difficulties. The best thing to do is be prepared. Arrive with all the appropriate documents, bring the originals but make copies to leave. Document requirements may vary slightly depending on the city in which you are requesting your license.
Go to the “Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico”, or Traffic Department, nearest you with the following papers:
• an official form provided by the Traffic Department, which you must fill out.
• a photocopy of your national identity card.
• two current photos.
• a written statement declaring that your current license has not been suspended or revoked.
• a written statement declaring that you are not in possession of additional licenses, issued either within Spain or in any other country.
• The drivers’ license from your home country, that you are wishing to process, plus a photocopy of that document.
In order to renew your Spanish driver’s license once you have it they have created a formal timeline. From the time you receive your Spanish license until you turn 45 years old, you must renew every 10 years and from the ages of 45 to 70, you must renew every 5 years and finally from the age of 70, you must renew every 2 years. Fees and physical exams are also required to renew the license.
Non-EU citizens (foreigners from outside of the European Union) are allowed to use their home country drivers’ licenses only while a tourist in Spain. However, upon receiving Spanish residency you must have a Spanish language license. For some this can be an International driving permit or an official translation of your home country drivers’ license or a “Certificado de Equivalencia” prepared by Spain’s Royal Automobile Club – RACE.
Various countries have a reciprocal agreement with Spain to exchange licenses. If this is the case you follow the same procedure as a EU citizen. Many others such as United States, Canada, Switzerland and Australia drivers are required to start at the beginning, join a driving school and take the official Spanish Driving exam- just like any Spaniard.
Driving Test
Both unlicensed drivers and many non-EU citizens are required to take a driving test (written and practical) in order to obtain the Spanish license required of all residents in this country. Luckily, in larger cities and places where a large part of the population is not from Spain, tests may be given in your native language such as English.
There are many driving schools advertised in foreign language newspapers and magazines. If the test is not available in your native language, you will have to take it in Spanish, and this can be tricky even if Spanish is your native language. The testing process is difficult (even for Spaniards) and expensive so make sure you are prepared to dedicate yourself to studying and practicing during the course.
You have three attempts to pass (this includes both the written and driving test) and then you have to pay additional fees for another three chances to pass. The written test consists of 40 (trick) questions, of which you can miss three. This can be a frustrating process for drivers who have already held a driving license in their own country and been driving for many years.
There are a variety of exams so if you are having difficulties obtaining your license, it may be useful to inquire about the possibility of taking a different version of the test.
Car Insurance
All car owners driving and living (resident, non- resident or visiting) in Spain must have car insurance. Cities such as Marbella where there are a large group of English speaking residents have insurance companies with English speaking agents and policies written in English for easier understanding. These can be found in English language newspapers, or other foreign language papers.
Depending on the make and year of your vehicle all risk “todo riesgo” car insurance will cost between €1.000 to €2.000 per year. The legal minimum is third party insurance and will cost about €400 per year. It will cover you for claims by third parties up to €360.000, for injury and €100.000 for damage.
It does not cover you or your car, only third parties up to the maximum limits stated. These limits can be increased and extended to cover for fire, theft, damage to your vehicle.
Your Spanish car insurance will automatically cover you for the legal minimum in other European countries as well. A green card will increase this coverage to the same level as your own policy. Many insurance policies issue a green card “free” others may charge a small fee.
However, if you travel to Morocco with your car you will be required to take out temporary Moroccan car insurance whether you have a green card or not.
Car Accidents
If you are unlucky and have a car accident follow the same procedure as you would in your own country:
• Make sure you obtain the licence plate, drivers name and NIF number (National Identification Number) and the name of the insurance company of the other vehicle.
• Complete the blue form from your insurance packet (you should carry these papers at all times), recording all relevant details and information.
• If you are driving a rental car, call the rental company for assistance.
• If you need an ambulance call 112.
• If you need Roadside Assistance, your insurance paperwork may provide numbers to call for assistance, otherwise call the “Gruas” (local tow truck) for help to take your car to the nearest garage or your destination.
• At the earliest opportunity call the insurance company or his agent and they will guide you through the claims policy.
• There is no specific requirement to inform the Police.
Buying cars or motorcycles/scooters generally falls under three categories: new, used/transfer of ownership and rental cars.
In order to purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealer foreigners (EU or non-EU residents) must have one of the following documents to accompany the payment: a residence permit, “Escritura” (title deeds) of a house (dwelling not a office) in his/her name, Certificate of “Empadronamiento”(proof of registration in the local town hall) or one years rental contract.
The dealer where you purchase your car will do all the required paperwork and handle any tax payments needing to be made. If you wish to trade in your old car, the government will reduce the new car tax by €480 or €720 if your used car was a leaded fuel and your new one is unleaded.
Buying a used rental car from a rental car agency is often a good deal because the cars are usually less expensive than a new car but very well looked after and even come with a limited guarantee. This transaction will also be handled directly with the dealer requiring one of the above named documents. During the first year following the purchase of your ex-rental car you may be required to service the vehicle at the dealership in order to ensure the guarantee.
Buying a used car from a private party can be tricky because many papers are required and if things are not done properly, you can be stuck with paying the previous car owners unpaid parking tickets and municipal taxes. Thus, using the services of a Gestoria is recommended. The seller usually pays the transfer costs (Gestor) and transfer taxes (4%), make sure this is agreed upon.
If you wish to save a little money, this can be done yourself. However, being able to speak and understand Spanish well definitely will come in handy at this point. You can do the transfer yourself at the “trafico” offices. A full list of offices with phone and fax numbers and email addresses can be found on the National Traffic Authority website at www.dgt.es (Direcion General de Traffico – They also provide up to date information on road conditions).
You will need the following documentation: completed application form from traffic office, circulation permit (car document) signed by the seller, receipt of paid municipal tax, receipt of vehicle transfer tax paid to Hacienda office (4% of sale price), a photocopy of the ITV (Inspección Tecnica de Vehiculos) certificate, residence permit plus photocopy, stamped addressed envelope (for return of car document )and a fee €40.20.
Keep in mind, that though agents and/or dealers may speak English, the paperwork will surely be in Spanish. If you have any reservations or doubts before signing documents, ask for a copy to take with you. Take your time to go over the documents before signing.
Foreign plated cars
If you are driving a car with foreign plates in Spain for more than six months in one year then legally you must import your car onto Spanish number plates. EU legislation requires that a car be insured in its country of registration, so if you are now living in Spain with Spanish residency you must make the appropriate changes. An insurance company will require the car to be road legal and ask to see a vehicle inspection certificate (ITV).
You cannot obtain a valid test certificate in the country of registration if the car is in Spain. Basically, if you change one thing (such as vehicle registration), you must change all of it (insurance, license plates, drivers license, etc) to make it all coincide.
However, if you are visiting for a minimum of 6 months with your car in Spain, Spanish Law permits a foreign car to drive on Spanish roads as long as the car is road legal in its own country. A UK car for example without a UK MOT can not be legal in Spain, as it probably cannot be legal in the UK either
Annual Vehicle Fees
ITV(Inspección Tecnica de Vehículo)
Spain, like many other countries has taken on the responsibility of keeping the roads safe for all drivers by making sure that all vehicles are road worthy. Depending on when your car was licensed, a periodic inspection is mandatory for all vehicles. Once your vehicle has been inspected and passed, you are given a sticker and advised when to update the inspection.
If you are caught without a current ITV sticker (issued when the test is passed), you are liable for a fine of €90 to €150 (minimum). Your license could also be confiscated until you produce proof of passing the ITV (within 10 days of confiscation).
Municipal taxes
Many car owners are required to pay an annual municipal tax for the upkeep and usage of the roads within the city/town. The paperwork will be sent to you and are to be paid annually. Proof of payment must kept in your car. The fees depend on where you are registered as living, but do not depend on the make of your car.
Vehicle Maintenance
Due to the vast number of foreigners living in Spain now, especially in such places like Marbella an increase in the demand for foreign car maintenance has risen dramatically. In this day and age, almost any car part can be purchased directly here in Spain. Going directly to the dealership may be more costly but the labour and parts will be guaranteed. All car dealerships can generally be found in the “peligono”, the industrial area of each town/city.
Going to the smaller car repair places may be less expensive, but it is advisable to get two or three quotes before agreeing to get any work done. Also, a recommendation is always good too, good mechanics are hard to find!! If you are on a really tight budget and do not need any major work done. For example, if you are like the many other hundreds of people in Spain who have lost side view mirrors driving or parked on these narrow streets you can go to the local “Gruas” (car junk yard).
It is very likely you will find the parts you need. Bring your own tools though because it is self serve to remove the parts. But often there is a mechanic on site to do the work you need. Prices are fair, the only thing you lose is time because these are usually located outside of the city center with no tapas bars to wait at while the work is being done!
Petrol
Almost all garages sell petrol at the maximum price permitted by the government. Most petrol stations are self service, but many of the older ones still have personal service. Many garages are open 24 hours. You always put petrol in first then pay at the desk, credit cards are readily accepted.
