Spain’s Driving Laws
If you hold a valid UK driving licence, you are legally permitted to drive a vehicle in Spain, provided that it is insured, has a valid ITV (the equivalent of an MOT) if required, and is deemed roadworthy. However, if you are a resident of Spain, you must exchange your UK licence for a Spanish one at the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT ↗), as your UK licence becomes invalid after six months of residency. In Spain, as in most European countries, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limit signs are displayed in kilometres per hour (KPH), so be sure to comply with these regulations. Additionally, it is essential to carry your driving licence with you at all times while driving.
Solid White Lines
Solid white lines should not be crossed, even when parking or turning. However, it is permissible to straddle the line when overtaking cyclists. Additionally, avoid parking against the flow of traffic, as this could result in a fine. Moreover, a solid white line at the side of the road indicates that stopping is prohibited, so resist the temptation to halt, even briefly, for a photo opportunity.
Is it illegal to wear flip flops in Spain while driving?
Under Spanish law, the same as in the UK, driving wearing flip flops isn’t illegal, however, ensuring you are able to operate the controls safely is. Article 17 of the Spains General Traffic Regulations states that “drivers must be in a position to control their vehicles at all times”. If you have an accident while driving in flip flops you will no doubt have problems so best avoid it.
Can I drive without wearing a shirt?
Nationally, driving without a shirt is banned. The Spanish Traffic Department (DGT) forbid this for drivers and passengers, as the seatbelt can rub against the skin. The penalties for doing so range from €80 to €200, depending on the police officer’s judgement.
What about having my arm out of the window?
Although not specifically mentioned in the regulations, driving with your arm out of the window DGT article 18.1 stipulates that both the driver and the rest of the passengers must maintain the proper position during the journey, so this means that driving with your arm or elbow outside the window is not allowed, and anybody caught doing it can face a penalty of €80 or more.
Mobile Phone Use
Using a mobile phone whilst driving in Spain and The Canary Islands is illegal, you could face a large fine and points on your licence if caught.
Drinking and Driving
Just don’t take the risk, alcohol levels are lower than the UK so don’t risk it.
Spanish drink drive limit proposal law for 2025: Spain is preparing to introduce even stricter drink driving laws in 2025 to further enhance road safety. The DGT is proposing a significant reduction in the legal alcohol limit. The proposal suggests lowering the blood alcohol concentration limit from 0.2g/l to 0.1mg/l for all categories of driver.
Wearing Headphones or earphones
According to Article 13.3 of the Spanish Traffic Law: It’s prohibited to drive using any audio headset or device that may reduce attention, including music headphones or earphones. This includes cycling.
Further Information
Rules of the Road is a useful document in English published by the Spanish government and is available here ↗
Also see our article on Road Traffic Islands
