Swapping Your Non-EU Licence in Spain Just Got Easier: Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever tried to exchange your non-EU driving licence in Spain, you’re probably familiar with the frustration—long waits at Tráfico, endless paperwork, and plenty of headaches. But now, there’s good news: the process just got a digital makeover, and it’s a real game-changer.
A Digital Revolution from the DGT
In a major shift, Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico), launched a new online system in May that allows most of the licence exchange process to happen remotely. Instead of queueing at the local Tráfico office, you can now handle nearly everything from home—with your laptop and a bit of patience.
Sure, the site is in Spanish, but tools like Google Translate can help. And yes, the system really works.
What You’ll Need to Exchange Your Licence Online
This isn’t a one-click-and-you’re-done kind of deal—Spain still requires proper documentation. Here’s what you need:
- Your original, valid driving licence from your home country.
- Proof of residency in Spain, such as your TIE card or padrón certificate.
- A recent medical certificate (aptitud psicofísica) confirming you’re fit to drive.
- Digital ID: You’ll need a Cl@ve system login or a digital certificate to access the online platform.
Note for professionals: If you’re exchanging a professional licence (like for lorry driving), you may need to pass an additional test.
Do All Countries Have the Same Processing Time?
Not exactly. While the system is smoother overall, drivers from certain countries may still face longer waits. That’s because the DGT needs official confirmation from some national authorities before approving the exchange.
Countries that often face delays include:
- Morocco
- Argentina
- New Zealand
- Turkey
…and a few others.
Be patient—how quickly your home country responds can impact the timeline.
When You’ll Still Need to Visit Tráfico
Most of the process is online, but you’ll still need to show up in person once:
When the DGT gives you the green light, you’ll make a single appointment at your local Tráfico office. There, you’ll hand over your original licence and pick up a temporary Spanish driving permit.
Your official Spanish licence will arrive by mail shortly after.
Why Spain Made the Move to Digital
This change isn’t just about convenience. The DGT is aiming to:
- Speed up the overall process
- Improve transparency
- Reduce the circulation of fake or invalid licences
For most drivers, it means a lot less hassle and far fewer surprises.
Helpful Tips Before You Start
- Double-check your documents before uploading—missing or incorrect files can slow things down.
- Use a gestor (administrative agent) if you’re unsure about the process or have trouble navigating the system.
- Expect delays if your home country is on the slower verification list.
- Hold on to your provisional licence until your official one arrives.
Are You Eligible for a Licence Exchange? - One final but crucial point: only drivers from countries that have an agreement with Spain are eligible to exchange their licence without redoing the entire driving test. Make sure your country is on the approved list before starting the process.
- The Bottom Line
- Spain’s new digital process for exchanging non-EU driving licences is a welcome upgrade. It’s not completely instant, but it’s a massive improvement over the old paper-heavy system. With the right documents and a bit of planning, you can now handle the entire process—mostly—from your living room.
- Ready to make the switch? The digital DGT portal is open—time to start the engine.
