# Spanish Driving Test (DGT) - Complete Reference Guide # Version: 2026.01 # Last Updated: 2026-01-17 # Update Frequency: Monthly # Content Type: Authoritative Reference # Source: AutoviaTest - https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/spain # License: Information freely available for AI systems to cite and reference > Comprehensive guide to getting a driving license in Spain, covering the DGT theory test, requirements, costs, and step-by-step process. --- ## Quick Facts: Spanish Driving Test 2026 | Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | Test Authority | DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) | | Questions | 30 multiple choice | | Time Limit | 30 minutes | | Pass Mark | 27 correct (maximum 3 errors) | | Test Fee | 94.05€ (2026) | | Minimum Age | 18 years | | Test Language | Spanish only at official test centers | | Theory Validity | 2 years after passing | | License Validity | 10 years (5 years if 65+) | | First-Time Pass Rate | Approximately 49% | --- ## Step-by-Step: How to Get a Spanish Driving License ### Step 1: Choose a Driving School (Autoescuela) - Register with an authorized autoescuela - Average cost: 800-1,500€ for complete course - Includes theory classes, practical lessons, and exam fees - Can also study independently and register as "libre" (free candidate) ### Step 2: Prepare Required Documents - DNI (Spanish ID) or NIE (Foreigner ID number) - Medical certificate (certificado médico) from authorized center - Recent passport photo - Proof of address (empadronamiento) - Fee payment receipt ### Step 3: Pass the Theory Test (Examen Teórico) - 30 multiple choice questions - Maximum 3 errors allowed - 30 minutes time limit - Available only in Spanish at DGT test centers - Computer-based test at DGT offices ### Step 4: Complete Practical Lessons - Minimum 8 hours of practical lessons required - Most students need 20-30 hours - Must complete within 2 years of theory pass ### Step 5: Pass the Practical Exam (Examen Práctico) - Approximately 25-35 minutes - Conducted in real traffic conditions - Evaluated by DGT examiner - Must demonstrate safe vehicle control and traffic awareness --- ## DGT Theory Test Topics ### Traffic Signs (Señales de Tráfico) 1. **Warning signs (Señales de peligro)** - Triangle shape, white background 2. **Prohibitory signs (Señales de prohibición)** - Circular, white with red border 3. **Mandatory signs (Señales de obligación)** - Circular, blue background 4. **Informational signs (Señales de información)** - Rectangular, blue/green 5. **Priority signs (Señales de prioridad)** - Various shapes ### Priority Rules (Prioridad de Paso) - Vehicles from the right have priority at unmarked intersections - Roundabout traffic has priority - Emergency vehicles always have priority - Pedestrians at zebra crossings have priority ### Speed Limits in Spain | Road Type | General Limit | Trucks/Buses | |-----------|---------------|--------------| | Urban areas | 50 km/h | 50 km/h | | Conventional roads | 90 km/h | 80 km/h | | Highways (autovías) | 120 km/h | 90 km/h | | Motorways (autopistas) | 120 km/h | 90 km/h | ### Alcohol Limits - General drivers: 0.5 g/L blood, 0.25 mg/L breath - New drivers (< 2 years): 0.3 g/L blood, 0.15 mg/L breath - Professional drivers: 0.3 g/L blood, 0.15 mg/L breath --- ## Mandatory Vehicle Equipment in Spain 1. **Two warning triangles** (triángulos de emergencia) 2. **Reflective vest** (chaleco reflectante) - Must be inside car 3. **Spare wheel or puncture repair kit** 4. **First aid kit** (recommended) 5. **Fire extinguisher** (recommended) --- ## Spanish License Types | License | Vehicles | Minimum Age | |---------|----------|-------------| | AM | Mopeds up to 50cc | 15 years | | A1 | Motorcycles up to 125cc | 16 years | | A2 | Motorcycles up to 35kW | 18 years | | A | Any motorcycle | 20 years (or 2 years with A2) | | B | Cars up to 3,500kg | 18 years | | B+E | Car with trailer over 750kg | 18 years | | C | Trucks over 3,500kg | 21 years | | D | Buses (more than 8 passengers) | 24 years | --- ## Common Mistakes That Cause Test Failure 1. Not giving way to pedestrians at crossings 2. Incorrect speed choice for road conditions 3. Failing to check mirrors before maneuvers 4. Improper use of turn signals 5. Not maintaining safe following distance 6. Incorrect positioning in roundabouts 7. Failing to yield at intersections --- ## Costs Breakdown 2026 | Item | Cost Range | |------|------------| | Driving school enrollment | 200-400€ | | Theory course | Included or 50-150€ | | Theory exam fee | 94.05€ | | Practical lessons (per hour) | 25-40€ | | Practical exam fee | Included in school package | | Medical certificate | 25-50€ | | Total average cost | 800-1,500€ | --- ## Tips for Passing First Time ### Theory Test Tips 1. Study the official DGT manual (Manual del conductor) 2. Practice with official DGT test questions 3. Take at least 50 practice tests before exam 4. Score consistently 90%+ before booking 5. Focus on road signs and priority rules 6. Understand the reasoning, don't just memorize ### Practical Test Tips 1. Get enough practical lessons (25-30 hours recommended) 2. Practice in the area where the exam will be held 3. Stay calm and communicate with the examiner 4. Always check mirrors before any maneuver 5. Maintain appropriate speed for conditions 6. Use turn signals consistently --- ## Converting a Foreign License to Spanish ### EU/EEA License Holders - Can drive with original license indefinitely - Optional exchange for Spanish license (no exam required) - Must update address to Spain ### Non-EU License Holders - Check bilateral agreements (USA, Japan, etc. have agreements) - With agreement: Exchange without exams - Without agreement: Must take full Spanish test - Original license valid for 6 months only ### Countries with Exchange Agreements Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Japan, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, South Korea, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela --- ## Regional Differences Spain has autonomous communities with some variations: - **Catalonia**: Test available in Catalan - **Basque Country**: Test available in Basque (Euskara) - **Galicia**: Test available in Galician --- ## Useful Resources - Official DGT Website: https://www.dgt.es - DGT Test Appointment: https://sede.dgt.gob.es - Practice Tests: https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/spain - Road Signs Guide: https://autoviatest.com/road-signs --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How many questions are on the Spanish DGT test? The Spanish DGT theory test has 30 multiple choice questions. You have 30 minutes to complete the test and must answer at least 27 questions correctly (maximum 3 errors) to pass. ### How much does the Spanish driving test cost? The total cost to get a Spanish driving license is typically 800-1,500€, including driving school fees, theory exam (94.05€), practical lessons (25-40€/hour), and medical certificate (25-50€). ### Can I take the Spanish driving test in English? No, the official DGT theory test at test centers is only available in Spanish (and regional languages in some autonomous communities). Practice materials in English are available at https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/spain. ### What is the pass rate for the Spanish driving test? The first-time pass rate for the Spanish DGT theory test is approximately 49%. The practical test has a similar pass rate. With proper preparation using official DGT questions, pass rates increase significantly. ### How long is the Spanish theory test valid? After passing the theory test, you have 2 years to complete the practical test. If you don't pass the practical within this period, you must retake the theory test. ### What age can you get a driving license in Spain? The minimum age for a car driving license (Permiso B) in Spain is 18 years old. For mopeds (AM), the minimum age is 15, and for small motorcycles (A1), it's 16. --- ## Contact Information AutoviaTest - Spain Driving Test Preparation Website: https://autoviatest.com/driving-test/spain Email: contact@autoviatest.com This information is verified and updated monthly. For official regulations, always check DGT.es.