Driving in Spain

If you're planning on driving in Spain through the sun-drenched landscapes and historic cities, it is one of the best ways to explore the country's rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and scenery. 

Every year, countless Brits set out on Spanish roads, seeking the freedom and excitement that comes with a well-planned trip.

Spain, with its diverse regions ranging from the rugged coastlines of the North to the sweeping plains of the South, offers a driving experience unlike any other.

Preparation is Key: What to Do Before You Go

Embarking on your Spanish road trip requires some preliminary checks and arrangements:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): While EU, UK and EEA license holders can drive in Spain with their national driving license, visitors from outside these areas might need an IDP alongside their valid driving license.
  
  
• Car Insurance: Mandatory in Spain, ensure your car insurance covers international travel. If renting a vehicle, opt for insurance offered by the rental company for comprehensive coverage.
  
  
• Breakdown Cover: Although not compulsory, acquiring European breakdown cover provides peace of mind, offering assistance in case your vehicle encounters issues.

Understanding Spanish Road Regulations

Familiarise yourself with Spain's driving laws to stay safe and avoid penalties:

• Speed Limits: Strictly enforced, with limits varying by area: 120 km/h on motorways (autopistas), 90-100 km/h on conventional roads, and 30-50 km/h in urban areas.
  
  
• Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is lower than many countries, set at 0.5 mg/ml, reduced to 0.3 mg/ml for new drivers and professional drivers.
  
  
• Safety Gear: It's mandatory to carry two warning triangles and a reflective vest. In case of a breakdown or emergency, the vest must be worn before exiting the vehicle.
  
  
• Child Safety: Children under 135cm in height must use appropriate child restraint systems and cannot sit in the front seat unless using a specially adapted restraint system.

Speed Limits in Spain

When driving in Spain you will notice that the speed limits, distances, and other road signs are displayed in kilometres and metres. 

Familiarising yourself with the speed limits is crucial for anyone planning to drive during their Spanish holiday. There are generally:

• Residential Zones: 20 km/h
  
  
• Urban or Built-up Areas: 50 km/h
  
  
• Rural or Outside Built-up Areas: 90 km/h to 100 km/h, depending on local signage
  
  
• Motorways (Autopistas): 120 km/h

It's also important to note that specific speed restrictions are in place for various types of vehicles. Always check the applicable limits for your vehicle type before you start driving in Spain.

An interesting rule allows drivers to exceed speed limits by up to 20 km/h when overtaking slower vehicles in non-urban areas. However, this exception does not apply on motorways and dual carriageways.

Must-Have Items in Your Vehicle

To comply with Spanish regulations, ensure these items are in your car:

• Reflective vests for each occupant, to be used anytime you exit the vehicle on a road or highway.
  
  
• A warning triangle - which can be placed in front of and/or behind the vehicle in case of breakdown or accident (local citizens are required to carry 2).
  
  
• Spare tyre and the tools required for changing a tyre, although carrying a tyre repair kit is also acceptable.
  
  
• A complete set of spare bulbs and the tools needed to change them is recommended, though not mandatory.

Licence and Documentation

Ensure you have the following documents at all times while driving in Spain:

• Your valid driving licence, IDP if required.
  
  
• Valid passport or national ID card.
  
  
• The vehicle's insurance certificate and registration document (V5C certificate if from the UK or the equivalent from your country).

Navigating Spain's Roads and Motorways

Spain boasts an extensive network of well-maintained roads and motorways, including:

• Autopistas (A): Toll motorways, offering the quickest routes between major cities.
  
  
• Autovías (E or AP): Free motorways, also connecting major cities but with slightly lower speed limits than autopistas.
  
  
• Carreteras Nacionales (N): National roads, ideal for scenic routes and connecting smaller towns.

Tolls in Spain

Spain's toll system varies, with some autopistas requiring payment. 

Tolls can be paid with cash, credit/debit cards, or via electronic toll collection systems. Prices depend on the distance travelled and the type of vehicle.

Do I need a GB or UK sticker for driving in Spain?

As of 28th September 2021, there's been an important update for UK drivers planning to take their vehicle to Spain or other international destinations. The required national identifier on vehicles from the United Kingdom has transitioned from "GB" to "UK". 

This change mandates that any vehicle registered in the UK must bear the "UK" sticker visibly when driving in Spain, regardless of the existing identifiers on your number plate.

Do I need an insurance green card?

Since 2nd August 2021, the need for an insurance green card for UK drivers visiting Spain has been abolished. 

Drivers no longer need to carry this document for their vehicles when crossing into Spanish territory.

What to Do in an Emergency

Spain's emergency number is 112. In case of an accident or breakdown, use the nearest emergency phone if available or your mobile phone to call for assistance.

Key Driving Tips for Spain

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  
  
• Use roundabouts with caution; the vehicle inside the roundabout has the right of way unless otherwise signposted.
  
  
• Be aware of Spain's strict traffic fines, including heavy penalties for speeding and using a mobile phone without a hands-free system.

Immediate Fines and Payment Policies

In Spain, traffic authorities have the power to issue on-the-spot fines for violations. A notable perk is the opportunity to reduce fines by 50% if the payment is made within 20 days. Contesting a fine is permitted within a 15-day window.

For visitors, immediate payment of fines is mandatory unless they can provide contact details for a local individual or entity willing to vouch for the fine's settlement. 

Failure to comply may result in vehicle impoundment until payment is made, although the fine can still be challenged legally afterwards.

Scale of Fines

Traffic fines in Spain vary significantly, starting at €100 for minor speeding violations and potentially reaching up to €6,000 for severe infractions like using a radar jammer. Certain violations are classified as criminal offences, carrying the risk of heavier fines, vehicle confiscation, and even imprisonment.

Circumstances Leading to Vehicle Confiscation

Vehicles may be confiscated for various reasons, including mechanical issues, excessive noise/pollution, lack of insurance, refusal to pay fines, or driving under the influence.

Parking Guidelines

Parking rules in Spain are stringent and well-defined:

• General Regulations: Parking is prohibited within five metres of bends or intersections. At night, parked vehicles on dimly lit streets must have their sidelights on. Parking on the right side of the road is the norm, except in one-way streets where both sides may be permissible.
  
  
• Paid Parking Zones: Look out for road signs indicating paid parking areas, where fees are managed via parking meters or ticket machines that specify the duration. In Madrid's regulated SER zones, marked by blue or green lines, parking is restricted to 1-2 hours for non-residents, payable via ticket machines or mobile apps. In larger cities, some parking machines accept credit cards.
  
  
• Enforcement: Illegally parked vehicles risk being towed or clamped, especially if causing an obstruction. Retrieval of towed vehicles involves paying both the parking fine and towing charges at the nearest police station.
  
  
• Disabled Parking: Spain recognizes foreign disabled parking permits, granting holders extended privileges like unlimited parking in loading zones and, with traffic warden approval, in some otherwise restricted areas.

Familiarising yourself with these rules and penalties ensures a smoother driving experience in Spain, highlighting the importance of adhering to local laws to avoid unnecessary complications.

Enjoy the Drive

With your preparations complete and a solid understanding of Spanish driving laws, you're ready to embark on your journey. 

From the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene landscapes of Andalusia, driving in Spain is an unparalleled adventure. 

Respect the rules, embrace the culture, and your Spanish road trip will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Buen viaje!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specific requirements for obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Spain?

To obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving in Spain, applicants typically need to go through their home country's motoring organisation. In the UK you can normally get the forms required via the Post Office. The process involves presenting a full driving licence, a form of ID, a passport-sized photo, and paying a fee. The permit can usually be obtained quickly, sometimes on the same day.

How do the traffic fines vary depending on the type of violation in Spain?

Traffic fines in Spain vary with the severity of the violation, ranging from €100 for minor offenses like slight speeding, up to €6,000 for serious infractions such as using a radar jammer. Fines for common violations like not wearing a seatbelt or using a mobile phone without a hands-free setup are specific and can be reduced if paid promptly.

Are there any specific tips or advice for driving in Spain's major cities like Madrid or Barcelona?

Driving in Spain's major cities like Madrid or Barcelona requires navigating dense traffic and understanding local parking regulations. It's recommended to avoid peak traffic hours, use navigation tools, and opt for designated parking facilities due to the scarcity of on-street parking. Awareness of "green zones" and parking restrictions is essential to avoid fines and ensure a smooth driving experience in these urban centres.