Licence and speed limit changes could affect expats in Spain

Lower speed limits on many Spanish roads will come into effect in Spring

Two changes to the Spanish highways system enacted at the beginning of the year could potentially affect British expats who drive regularly in Spain.

Last week, Spain’s politicians voted to lower the speed limits across the country on most road types. The changes will come into effect in the Spring and will see urban roads that currently have a speed limit of 100 kph lowered to 90 kph, while roads with a current speed limit of 90 kph will see their speed limit lowered to 70 kph or 50 kph depending on how urban the landscape in which they pass through…

The speed limit on all Spanish motorways, however, will remain at 120 kph.

Further, British expats driving in Spain on their UK licence may be required to update it to a Spanish one if they have been registered as a resident in Spain for at least two years.

This change, enacted on January 19, means it is now illegal for residents to drive on a foreign-issued driving licence if they have officially resided in Spain for two years. The new ruling applies to motorists who have a licence that is valid for 15 years or more.

Driving licences in the European Union were standardised in 2013 to make the process of driving across the continent easier. But many foreign residents of Spain are likely to still use their old licence, putting them at risk of a fine if they are stopped by the Spanish traffic police.

To renew an outdated licence, British expats in Spain are urged to arrange an appointment at their local traffic HQ – this can be arranged by visiting the Dirección General de Tráfico website. Replacement licences cost a flat fee of €23.50.