Various Readers asked what driving in Spain is like. In the following article I sum up most of my answers on driving licenses, car hire and what to look for when driving a car in Spain.
When driving in Spain, it’s important to understand the rules of the road, classification of roads and laws of driving. Laws are strictly enforced. If you break a law, you will need to pay your fine on the spot. Lack of knowledge is not considered an excuse, so you won’t get out of it just because you are a tourist.
Driving in Spain: Roads and Parking
It’s important to understand the classification system for roads in Spain. This can help you in planning routes, reading maps and understanding road signs.
Autopista is a motorway. This will be designated with an A or E prefix before the road number on signs. These are often toll roads. The maximum speed limit on these roads is 120 kph.
Autovia is a dual carriageway. The speed limit on these roads varies from 80 to 140 kph. Since the limits can vary so much, it’s important to watch for signs.
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Take special care when driving at the roundabouts, as i had already my experience with weird driving.
Carretera Local is a local highway. The maximum speed on these roads is 100 kph. Some have lower speed limits, so always look for signs.
Carretera National is a national highway. The prefix for these roads is either an N or CN before the road number. The speed limit on these roads is generally between 60 and 100 kph.
Carretera Camarcal is a country road. The C prefix is used before the road number. The speed limit on these roads is usually between 80 and 100 kph-
On all Spanish roads, you drive on the right side. The general rule is to give the right of way to traffic from the left. Don’t pull into the middle of the road to turn left if there is a solid line in the road.
Parking:
There is no parking where signs are present. Parking is also prohibited in all areas where the curb is painted yellow.
Parking is metered in some areas. In other areas, spaces are marked in blue. A ticket needs to be purchased to park in these spaces. In some places, there is a machine for purchasing tickets. In other areas, an attendant is present to sell the tickets. Most of these areas have a two hour limit and fines are issued.
Pay attention to parking laws when you are visiting Spain. If you leave the car too long or park in a restricted area, your car may be towed. A sticker is left on the curb telling you where the car has been taken. The fines and fees are high to get your car back. Dealing with some companies is difficult if you don’t speak Spanish.
Driving in Spain: Laws
Always carry the proper documentation when driving in Spain. You will need to have your driver’s license, registration and a certificate of insurance. It’s a good idea to carry your passport as well. If you don’t own the vehicle, carry the agreement from the car hire company to prove you have the right to drive the car.
If you are from a country that is part of the European Union, you will need the EU driver’s license. If you are from a non EU country, you will be on the safe side if you have an international driver’s license. You should ask your car hire company beforehand and ask for any requirements they have. Otherwise this could lead to endless arguments at point of hire.
Carry a certificate of insurance in case you are stopped. If you have a car hire and have purchased the insurance, you should be given documentation. If you are using your home insurance, carry your certificate with you at all times. Keep in mind that this is generally only good for a stay of shorter than three months. If you are staying longer, contact your broker.
Spain has stricter drunk driving laws than many other countries. The legal limit is 0.05% and 0.01% for new drivers. They are serious about drunk driving and have strict penalties, such as heavy fines, loss of license and imprisonment.
Seat belts are required for all passengers, whether in the front or back seat of the vehicle. No children under the age of twelve should be in the front seat. Spain also has laws requiring small children be in an approved child safety seat in the back seat. Your car hire agency can provide a seat for you, just let them know at the time you reserve the car.
Talking on cell phones when driving is prohibited by Spanish law. This includes talking in your car when pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. You can talk with a completely hands free unit. Using an earpiece is also prohibited.