Driving in Spain
Complete guide for tourists and expats. Learn the road rules, speed limits, and essential information before you drive in Spain.
Can You Drive in Spain?
Accepted Licenses From
Validity Period: EU licenses valid indefinitely; others valid for 6 months
Important Note
After 6 months, non-EU residents must obtain a Spanish license
What to Carry in Your Car
Mandatory Items
- Two warning triangles
- Reflective safety vest
- Valid driving license
- Vehicle registration document
- Valid insurance certificate
- Passport or ID card
Recommended Items
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Spare bulbs set
- European accident report form
Speed Limits
Urban Areas
km/h
Rural Roads
km/h
Highways/Motorways
km/h
Toll Roads
Payment Methods
Average Cost
€5-15 per 100km on autopistas
Many toll roads have free alternatives (carreteras nacionales)
Parking
Line Colors
Parking Tips
- Pay at parkimeter machines
- Display ticket on dashboard
- Free parking often available in underground lots of shopping centers
Average Cost: €1-3 per hour in city centers
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
- 1Not carrying two warning triangles (one for each direction)
- 2Speeding in 30km/h urban zones
- 3Parking in resident-only green zones
- 4Not using headlights in tunnels
- 5Ignoring priority to the right at unmarked junctions
Traffic Fines
Speeding
€100-600 depending on excess
No Seatbelt
€200
Phone Use
€200 + 3 points
Red Light
€200 + 4 points
Illegal Parking
€80-200
Ready to Drive in Spain?
Take a quick quiz to test your knowledge of the road rules.
Emergency Contacts
Police
091 (National) / 092 (Local)
Ambulance
112
Fire
112
Roadside Assistance
RACE: 900 100 992
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Want to Master Spain Driving Rules?
Practice with our driving test questions and learn all the rules before you drive.
