Whether you’re navigating the Costa del Sol or exploring the scenic Basque Country, understanding the local driving rules is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.
If you’re aiming to drive in Spain for the first time, this guide will cover everything you need to know – from driving laws to necessary documents.
Documents Required for Driving in Spain
Before you set off on your Spanish adventure, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary documents with you. Spain requires drivers to carry certain paperwork to legally operate a vehicle on its roads.
- Valid Driving Licence – Valid UK driving licences are accepted in Spain.
- Passport or National ID – Always carry your passport or official identification as proof of identity while driving abroad – make sure the expiry date is more than six months away!
- Vehicle Registration Documents – The car’s registration certificate (V5C) must be with you to prove ownership
- Proof of Insurance – This is essential. Make sure your insurance covers driving in Spain.
Legal Equipment for Driving in Spain
To avoid substantial on-the-spot fines, motorists are legally obligated to carry the following items in addition to the necessary documents when driving:
- Reflective Jackets – These must be worn by all passengers if you need to exit the vehicle on the roadside.
- Warning Triangle – Compulsory in every vehicle with four wheels or more
- Headlamp Beam Deflectors – You will need to either use deflector stickers or manually adjust your car’s beam, depending on the vehicle.
Crash Helmets – Compulsory for riders of mopeds, motorcycles, trikes and quads, unless these are equipped with seat belts. Motorcycles on the road must have their lights on at all times.
Key Rules You Need to Know for Driving in Spain
- Righthand Side Driving – Spain drives on the right-hand side of the road. This may feel unfamiliar at first, especially at roundabouts and junctions, so take extra care when turning.
- Roundabouts – When driving in Spain, remember that vehicles already circulating in a roundabout have the right of way. You must wait and give way to traffic inside the roundabout before entering.
- Mobile Phones – Hands-free systems are allowed, but holding a phone while driving is illegal.
- Seat Belts – Compulsory for all passengers, front and back.
- Overtaking – Overtaking is on the left side. If the line is white and solid, overtaking is forbidden.
- Drinking Limit – Although you should never drink and drive, it’s useful to be aware of Spain’s legal blood alcohol limits. For most drivers, the limit is 0.05%. However, if you’ve been driving for less than two years, the limit is 0.03%.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are indicated in kilometres per hour (km/h) rather than miles per hour (mph).You can be fined up to 600 EUR for breaking speeding rules in Spain. It is important to understand the speed limit in different areas to avoid this hefty fine.
- Residential Zones – 20 km/h
- Built-up Areas – 50 km/h
- Outside of Built-up Areas – 90 to 100 km/h
- Motorways – 120 km/h
Outside built-up areas, you are only permitted to exceed the speed limit when overtaking. Always be vigilant and adhere to speed limits, as Spain frequently uses speed and traffic light cameras.
Emergency Services and Important Numbers
In the event of an emergency while driving in Spain, here are the key numbers to know:
- 112 – The Universal European Emergency Number
- 091 – Police
- 061 – Health Emergencies
- 080 – Fire Fighters
- 092 – Local Police
Here at Fairview Vehicle Hire, we recommend keeping these numbers saved in case you need them quickly.
Driving in Spain With Fairview Vehicle Hire
To truly immerse yourself in Spain’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, driving is an unparalleled experience. Fairview Vehicle Hire offers a comprehensive range of rental options, including cars for holidays, vans for moving and minibuses for group trips.
What’s stopping you? We can handle all the necessary paperwork and insurance for your hire vehicle, so you can drive legally and confidently when travelling to Spain.
Want to learn more? Check out our recent article: Can I Travel in Europe When Hiring a Car from Fairview Vehicle Hire.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch. To book your next hire vehicle, simply use our easy online booking system today!
Driving in Spain FAQs
Do I need a GB or UK sticker on my car?
Yes. When driving a UK-registered car in Spain, a UK sticker must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle. This is required even if your number plate already features the UK identifier alongside the Union Jack flag.
Can I turn right at a red traffic light in Spain?
No. Unlike in some countries, turning right on red is not permitted in Spain unless a separate green arrow signals that you can.
Is it easy to find fuel garages in Spain?
Yes, fuel garages (gasolineras) are common and well-marked. Most accept card payments, and many are open 24/7, especially on motorways. Unleaded petrol is Gasolina Sin Plomo and diesel is Gasoil or Diesel.
Are there any unusual driving laws I should know about?
Yes! It is illegal to drive wearing flip-flops, barefoot or with inappropriate footwear. This is considered unsafe and could lead to a fine.
Are GPS and navigation systems allowed in Spain?
Yes, GPS devices and apps like Google Maps are widely used. However, speed camera detection functions are illegal.
