Exchanging Your Driver’s License
Everything you Need to Know
What is it?
Understanding the Driver’s License Exchange
The driver’s license exchange is a process that allows individuals with a valid foreign license to drive legally in Spain. Instead of obtaining a new license, you can exchange your existing one for a Spanish equivalent. This procedure also recognises all driving authorisations on your original license, making it a simpler alternative to starting the licensing process from scratch.
Requirements
Eligibility for License Exchange
The requirements for exchanging your license depend on your country of origin. Generally, you must:
- Be a legal resident of Spain.
- Hold a valid driver’s license from an eligible country (EU, EEA, or one with a bilateral agreement).
- Ensure your license was obtained before you became a legal resident in Spain or before the agreement was signed.
- Have a license that is valid and not revoked.
- Surrender the original license upon exchange.
Important Notes:
- You cannot exchange your license if it was obtained in Spain or through an exchange from a country without an agreement.
- Licenses issued in PDF format, such as from Venezuela, cannot be exchanged due to non-compliance with European regulations.
Non-EU and EEA Licenses
Rules for Non-EU License Holders
If your license is from a non-EU or EEA country with an agreement, you can drive in Spain for up to six months after acquiring legal residence. After this period, you must exchange your license to continue driving legally.
Some countries with exchange agreements include:
- Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay.
- Other regions: Morocco, Tunisia, Ukraine, Turkey, and Serbia.
For a complete list of countries with agreements and details, visit the Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Yes, you have to otherwise you will be fined by the police.
Yes, but it depends as well on your age.
You should contact your local department and they should issue a document stating you were a holder of DL and you have to add the DENUNCIA – report from police about the lost of your DL.
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