Driving licence renewal in Spain
How to renew a driving licence — how it works anywhere
Renewing a Spanish driving licence involves undergoing a mandatory psychophysical aptitude test and submitting an application to the traffic authority. The process can typically be completed online via the DGT electronic portal or in person at a Provincial Traffic Headquarters.
It is generally recommended to begin the renewal process at least three months before the expiration date to account for potential appointment wait times at medical centers or traffic offices. Driving with an expired licence is prohibited and may result in penalties.
Start 90 days ahead
Allows time for the medical certificate issuance and potential administrative processing delays.
The process
- 1Obtain a report of medical aptitude from an authorized Driver Recognition Center (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores).
- 2Prepare the required documentation, including proof of identity and the medical certificate.
- 3Pay the applicable administrative fee to the DGT.
- 4Submit the application online through the DGT electronic office or schedule an appointment at a Provincial Traffic Headquarters to submit in person.
- 5Receive the temporary authorization document, followed by the permanent physical licence sent via postal mail.
What to bring
- Valid DNI or NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) and passport
- Medical aptitude report (Informe de aptitud psicofísica)
- DGT fee payment receipt
- Current driving licence
Who handles it
Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) - Directorate-General for Traffic
https://sede.dgt.gob.es/es/permisos-de-conducir/renovacion-permisos/
Fees are set by the government and adjusted annually; applicants should consult the official DGT 'Tasas' page for the current rate applicable to renewal (Tasa 4.3).
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensuring the medical certificate is from an officially authorized center within the DGT network.
- Verifying that personal contact information held by the DGT is up to date to ensure the physical card arrives correctly.
- Confirming payment of the correct fee code, as specific administrative codes apply to renewals.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 90 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.