The British expat community in Spain has some great news to share! The Spanish government stated on March 14, 2023, that it has approved the reciprocal recognition and exchange of driving licences with the UK. This means if you’re a British national residing in Spain, you may now exchange your UK driver’s licence for a Spanish one, and the other way around.

No more stressing over repeating the driving test or completing tedious paperwork!

All you have to do is present your documents, such your original driving licence, evidence of residency in Spain, and a medical certificate, to swap your licence. For Spanish nationals residing in the UK, it is rather simple and similar.

Despite the difficulties brought on by Brexit, we are delighted to see a continued collaboration between Spain and the UK. We believe that this is a promising indicator for the future and that there will be more good news to come.

According to the Spanish government, the new regulations will come into force in the upcoming months, and they’ll be providing more details soon on the precise requirements and procedures for swapping driving licences.

And that’s not all! The UK and Spain will be shared data on traffic violations connected to road safety, agreeing to exchange information on vehicles and their owners. This is important in situations like speeding, not wearing a seat belt, driving a vehicle when intoxicated or high on drugs, and using a mobile phone. So, if you’re driving on the roads in Spain or the UK, pay attention to the traffic laws and be careful!

This recognition and exchange of driving licences between Spain and the UK, in conclusion, is great news for expats in both nations. It will greatly simplify things for individuals wishing to get behind the wheel and is a move towards more cooperation.