Driving License in Spain for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Spain with a foreign license?
Yes, for 6 months from residency registration. After that, you must convert to a Spain license. The official test is only in Spanish, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Spain Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) |
| Official Test Language | Spanish |
| Grace Period | 6 months from residency registration |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | 800-1,500€ (including driving school if needed) |
| Processing Time | 2-4 months |
Official test only in Spanish?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇪🇸 Practice Spain Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
Can exchange EU license directly without tests. Must register with DGT within 2 years of residency.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
No direct exchange agreement. Must take full DGT theory test (in Spanish) and practical test.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must check bilateral agreements. Without agreement, full theory and practical tests required.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license for duration of studies (up to 6 months). Must convert if staying longer.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Japan, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand - must take full tests
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓NIE (Foreigner ID Number)
- ✓Empadronamiento certificate
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Official translation of license
- ✓Medical certificate (from authorized center)
- ✓Passport photos
- ✓Fee payment receipt
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 94.05€ |
| Medical Exam | 30-50€ |
| Translation | 50-80€ |
| Total Estimated | 800-1,500€ (including driving school if needed) |
Tips for Expats in Spain
- 💡Official test is ONLY in Spanish - practice in English with AutoviaTest
- 💡NIE is required before applying - get this first
- 💡Bilateral agreements list updated frequently - verify current status
- 💡Some autoescuelas offer expat packages with translation help
- 💡Medical certificate valid only 90 days - time your application
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Spanish driving test in English?
How long can I drive in Spain with my foreign license?
Can I exchange my US license for a Spanish one?
What is an NIE and why do I need it?
Do I need to take driving lessons in Spain?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Spain driving test in English.