There are so many conflicting stories about foreign nationals having to change their driving licenses when they reside in Spain.
So, what is correct? Do you have to change your driving license or not?
You have to exchange your driving license if it was expedited in a country that forms part of the European Union or the European Economic Area when you are RESIDENT in Spain, and if applies to you any of the following cases:
- If your driving license expires in 15 years or more or your current driving license has no expiry date for the AM, A1, A2, A, B, BE group or in five years or more or your driving license has no expiry date for the BTP,C1,C1E,C,CE,D1,D1E,D,DE group and you have been a Spanish resident before the 20th of January of 2013, you are required to exchange your license within a period of two years (up to the 19th of January 2015).
- If your driving license expires in 15 years or more or your current driving license has no expiry date for the AM,A1,A2,A,B,BE group or in five years or more or your current driving license has no expiry date for the BTP,C1,C1E,C,CE,D1,D1E,D,DE group and you have been a Spanish resident after the 19th of January 2013, you are required to exchange your driving license within the period of two years from the date when your residencia was issued.
- If your driving license expires before 15 years, you will have to renew your driving license in the country where you are RESIDENT before the expiring date.
What happens if I do not exchange my driving license?
Those who do not exchange their driving license face a hefty fine of up to 200 euros.
What paperwork will I need to exchange my driving license?
- Original driving license
- Application forms
- Medical certificate when necessary
How long will it take to exchange my driving license?
It will depend on the Spanish Traffic department workload. You can contact them in order to get an idea of how long it will take to complete and get the necessary paperwork approved by the Spanish traffic department (DGT). However, we recommend that you allow plenty of time for this process as it can take weeks or even months.
At Pellicer & Heredia Lawyers we can help you an exchange or renew your driving license. Our qualified and registered team of experts (tráfico gestores) will be able to assist you on this matter and any other gestoría services that you might need while you are in Spain.
