License Exchange

The pattern across the EU: confirm eligibility on the host authority's list, gather the document pack, lodge the application (online in Spain through DGT, France through ANTS, Germany in person at the Führerscheinstelle), pass any required medical or eye test, surrender the original foreign licence, and receive a provisional document while the new licence is produced. Spain issues an autorización temporal that lets you drive while you wait. France posts a récépissé. Germany typically hands back the new Führerschein within four to eight weeks. If your country is not on the bilateral list you take the full theory and practical test instead.

EU and EEA licences are exchanged automatically without testing under Article 11 of Directive 2006/126/EC. Beyond that, bilateral agreements vary by host country and change without much notice. Spain (DGT) currently has direct-exchange agreements with the UK, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, and roughly 20 Latin American and Asian countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines among them). Germany's KBA publishes Anlage 11 to the FeV listing countries with full or partial exchange — US licences vary by state. France lists eligible countries on Service-Public.fr's "Échange d'un permis étranger" page. Always check the host authority's current list — agreements are updated annually.

Typically required: original foreign license, official translation if not in local language, proof of residency, passport/ID, recent photos, medical certificate (sometimes), proof of legal entry/visa status, and application form. Requirements vary - check official sources for your specific situation.

Costs vary by country: translation fees, application fees, medical examination fees if required. In Spain, expect around 20-30 euros for the exchange plus translation costs. Some countries charge more. Budget for all associated costs including photos and document copies.

Spain: 3–6 weeks for EU licences through the DGT; 2–4 months for non-EU exchanges that require the foreign authority to confirm authenticity (DGT publishes current waits on sede.dgt.gob.es). France: ANTS averages 3–6 months for non-EU exchanges per Service-Public.fr's official guidance, with a temporary récépissé issued in the meantime. Germany: 4–8 weeks for straightforward EU exchanges; longer if the Führerscheinstelle requests verification through the issuing country. UK DVLA: 3 weeks for standard cases. Apply at least three months before your foreign licence expires or your driving entitlement runs out, especially if you need to drive for work.

If your country has an exchange agreement, usually no tests are required. Without an agreement, you may need to pass theory and/or practical tests. Some countries offer exemptions for certain license holders or reduce requirements. Professional license categories often require additional testing regardless.