Living in Spain with a UK licence?

To exchange your UK driving licence for a Spanish one after becoming a resident in Spain, here are the key steps:

1. Residency Requirement
2. You must first be officially registered as a resident in Spain (empadronamiento).
3. Documentation Needed
   • Valid UK driving licence
   • Proof of identity (passport or national ID)
   • Proof of Spanish residency (empadronamiento certificate)
   • Recent passport-sized photographs
   • Completed application form (available from the Dirección General de Tráfico, DGT)
   • Medical fitness certificate (issued by an authorised medical centre in Spain)
   • Proof of payment of the applicable fee (around €24)
4. Application Process
   • Visit your local DGT office (or apply online if available)
   • Submit all required documents
   • Undergo a medical examination to confirm fitness to drive
5. Waiting Period and Validity
   • The exchange process usually takes a few weeks.
   • Your new Spanish licence will have the same categories as your UK licence.
6. Important Notes
   • The exchange must be completed before your UK licence expires or within six months of becoming a resident.
   • UK licences are exchanged without a driving test because Spain has a bilateral agreement with the UK.

For the most up-to-date information and to download forms, visit the official Spanish traffic authority website: DGT – Dirección General de Tráfico.