Driving licence points system in Spain

This article is to guide you through the points system for motoring offences in Spain. Primarily designed to promote road safety and responsible driving.

In Spain, the points system is officially known as the “Permiso por Puntos” or “Driving License Points System.” It was introduced to encourage safer driving habits by linking driving privileges to the accumulation or loss of points based on drivers’ behaviour on the road.

Unlike in the UK, each driver begins with 12 points on their license, which are reduced with fines if an offence is proven. 0 points means the licence will be suspended.

For new drivers, specifically those who have held their license for less than 3 years, the starting balance is 8 points, not 12. Points are deducted for traffic violations or motoring offences. The number of points deducted depends on the severity of the offence.

For example, minor infractions might result in a 2-point penalty, while more serious violations can lead to a 6-point penalty or more.

If a driver loses all their points, the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) automatically suspends their license, and they must undergo a mandatory fixed period without driving.

Following this suspension, the driver must attend a driving awareness and rehabilitation course before they can regain their license and start driving again with a reduced number of points.

It is important to note that points can also be regained over time. Drivers who maintain a clean record for two consecutive years after committing minor offences can recover up to 2 points.

Those who have not committed any infractions for three years can have their full points balance restored.

This system serves not only as a deterrent to reckless driving but also as an educational tool, encouraging drivers to obey traffic laws for their safety and that of others.

In conclusion, the points system in Spain is seen by the DGT as a vital component of road safety enforcement.

It holds drivers accountable while providing the opportunity to regain trust and continue driving responsibly. Understanding and respecting this system is essential for all motorists in Spain.