Validity of the German driving license in Spain: A comprehensive guide
Introduction
The question of whether a German driving license is valid in Spain is a concern for many Germans who either live in Spain permanently or wish to visit the country. In principle, German driver’s licenses are recognized in all member states of the European Union. Nevertheless, there are specific regulations, especially for people with permanent residence in Spain.
EU-wide recognition of driving licenses
In accordance with Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament, implemented in Spain by Real Decreto 818/2009 of 8 May 2009, driver’s licenses issued in the EU are mutually recognized. This means that German driving licenses are generally also valid in Spain. The only exceptions are if the licence holder is not yet 18 years old or if certain national driver’s license categories do not have to be recognized in other member states.
Special regulations for residents in Spain
Additional provisions apply to persons who have their habitual residence in Spain. The Spanish legislator has taken the opportunity to only recognize temporary driving licenses. Therefore, German driving licenses issued before 19 January 2013 without a limited period of validity must be exchanged for a Spanish driving license within two years of establishing residence in Spain. Failure to comply with this deadline may result in a fine of €200.
German driving licenses issued after 19 January 2013 with a validity period of 15 years are recognized in Spain and only need to be exchanged for a Spanish driving license after these 15 years have expired.
Driving license exchange process
The exchange of the driver’s license takes place at the competent Spanish road traffic authority (Jefatura de Tráfico). The required documents are
- Valid passport or identity card
- Proof of residency
- Original German driver’s license
- Current passport photo in 32×26 mm format
- Certificate that you have passed the road medical examination
The traffic medical examination is carried out in authorized examination centers (Centros de Reconocimiento de Conductores) and includes tests for reaction time, eyesight and hearing as well as a general health aptitude test.
Period of validity of the Spanish driving license
In Spain, driving licenses have different periods of validity, depending on the age of the holder:
- Up to the age of 65: 10 years
- From the age of 65: 5 years
At the end of these periods, the driver’s license must be renewed and a new medical examination is required.
Points account in Spain
When you receive a Spanish driving license, a points account is also set up, comparable to the “traffic offender register” in Flensburg. The Spanish points account starts with a points balance of 8 points for novice drivers (up to 3 years of driving experience) and 15 points for experienced drivers. Points are deducted for violations of the road traffic regulations. Once the credit has been used up, the driver’s license is revoked.
Conclusion
German driving licenses are generally recognized in Spain. However, residents are obliged to exchange their permanent driving licenses issued before January 19, 2013 within two years of taking up residence in Spain. Temporary driving licenses must be renewed when they expire. It is advisable to find out about the specific requirements and deadlines at an early stage in order to avoid legal consequences and ensure your own mobility in Spain.
