Driving in Spain 2025 Road Signs, Laws, Licenses & Rental Rules for Tourists
If you just landed in Spain and plan to drive understanding Spanish road signs is your first real test. its literally very complicated many are similar to what you’d find in the UK or other EU countries, but the layouts, placements, and even some symbol meanings are just different enough to trip you up. After years of driving in and around Murcia, I have learned this the hard way especially in roundabouts or village detours where signage can feel optional. What throws most tourists off isn’t that signs are in Spanish it’s that Spain’s road signs and meanings often use unfamiliar shapes, colors, or combinations that don’t always align with what visitors are used to. You’ll see yellow diamonds in rural areas, flashing green arrows in towns, and signs warning of Radar even where there is no camera. Understanding these early saves you from fines, missed turns, and awkward honks from locals behind you.
Driving License Spain in English What You Need to Know
If you’re wondering whether your license works here, the short answer is yes for many. UK, EU, and even some non-EU licenses are accepted in Spain, but the fine print matters. Spain officially recognizes many foreign licenses, but if you’re staying long-term or planning multiple visits, consider applying for an International Driving Permit for Spain.Most rental agencies will ask for a physical license (not just a digital photo) and may require an IDP if your license isn’t in English or Spanish. You don’t need to take a test, but you do need to carry both your license and passport while driving.
Rules of Driving in Spain The Stuff You Don’t Learn on Google
Driving in Spain isn’t hard, but tourists often get caught out by the small things. Speed limits are strict here, especially in little villages and near schools it can drop to 30 km/h and yes, people do get fined for going just a bit over. Another one is headlights in tunnels even in broad daylight, you’re expected to turn them on. I’ve seen visitors forget and get pulled over for it. And if you wear glasses while driving, you’re supposed to carry a spare pair in the car that’s actually law. Same goes for driving in flip-flops, or shirtless, or while eating they’ll fine you for that too. Might sound odd, but that’s how it is here. People also don’t realise that if you’re the last car in a traffic jam on the motorway, you should put your hazard lights on it’s just how drivers let others know there’s a hold-up. You won’t find that in the official handbook, but locals do it all the time. Honestly, most of what you learn about driving here doesn’t come from rules online it comes from what drivers around you do. Little honks, light flashes, hand gestures you figure it out quick once you’re on the road.
Drink Driving Law in Spain What Locals Know That Tourists Don’t
The Limit Is Lower Than Back Home
In Spain, alcohol limit is 0.5mg/ml for most drivers, and just 0.3mg/ml for those who’ve had their license for less than two years. Many visitors don’t realise it’s stricter than the UK or Ireland. Even one small beer can push you over.
Random Breath Tests Are Common
Local traffic police (Guardia Civil de Tráfico) set up roadside checks regularly especially on weekends, public holidays, and near beach areas like Puerto de Mazarrón and Cartagena. They don’t need a reason to stop you. It’s routine.
Renting a Car? Penalties Are Higher Than You Think
If you’re caught drink driving in a rental car in Spain, you won’t just pay a fine. You risk losing your right to drive in the country sometimes even on your own national license. We’ve had guests who got banned from driving in Spain for years over one bad decision.
Insurance Might Refuse to Cover You
Spanish insurance companies are very clear if alcohol is involved in an accident, coverage may be denied completely. That means you could be left paying for damage to the car, other vehicles, or injuries out of your own pocket.
Most Locals Avoid Alcohol If Driving
Here along the Costa Cálida, especially in family-friendly towns like Bolnuevo or Camposol, it’s normal for the person driving to skip alcohol completely. You’ll see locals stick to soft drinks at lunch or dinner if they’re behind the wheel.
What I Tell Every Traveller
Look, you’re here to enjoy your time. But if you’re planning to drive whether it’s from Murcia Airport to your villa, or just heading down to Playa de Percheles don’t take chances. Wait until you’re home for that sangria or cold beer. It’s not worth the risk.
Can Tourists Drive in Spain? Yes But Read This First
Yes, tourists can drive in Spain without issues as long as your license is valid and readable. That said, navigating Spain’s road networks isn’t always straightforward. Cities like Madrid or Valencia have low-emission zones, restricted access areas, and confusing signage.
In beach towns like Puerto de Mazarrón or Bolnuevo, things are more relaxed but parking rules still apply. Knowing local customs helps, especially when dealing with car parking rules in Spain, which are rarely written in English.
Driving in Spain on UK License: Still Valid Post-Brexit?
Post-Brexit, the good news is that UK driving license is still valid in Spain for short-term visitors. You won’t need an IDP unless you’re staying longer than six months. But one thing Brits often overlook: Spain car rental tips include bringing proof of accommodation and insurance coverage. Some rental companies have added extra deposit requirements for UK license holders, so double-check in advance.
Spain Rental Car Rules | What They Don’t Always Tell You
Whether you’re picking up from the airport or a small town office, Spain rental car rules tend to follow a national standard—but with lots of local variations.
Fuel policy: Full-to-full is standard, but some small agencies still use pre-paid tanks.
One-way fees: They can be steep, especially between coastal and inland locations.
Added drivers: Usually charged per day unless you rent with local companies.
I’ve personally found car rental in Spain as a tourist to be smoother when booking through local businesses—especially those that explain rules upfront.
Final Thoughts from the Road
If you’re planning a trip and want a stress-free driving experience, don’t overthink it. Spain is a fantastic place to drive once you get used to the signage and rhythms. Renting from a local office like those in Puerto de Mazarrón or Bolnuevo gives you a head start. They’ll often walk you through things in English, help with parking suggestions, and even give tips about speed cameras or fuel prices.
When in doubt, just drive like a local but skip the sangria.