Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Changing your driving license in Spain is an essential step if you’re planning to stay in the country for an extended period. The good news is that the process is relatively straightforward, and all you need to do is to gather the required documents.
The first document you’ll need is an official translation of your current driving license. This should be done by a sworn translator who is accredited by the Spanish government. You can find a list of these translators on the Spanish government website or your embassy in Spain.
Additionally, you’ll also need a medical certificate issued by a licensed medical practitioner. This document certifies that you’re physically and mentally fit to drive and meets the specifications set out by the Spanish government. It’s worth noting that not all doctors can issue this certificate, and you’ll need to find one who can.
Lastly, you’ll need your NIE (Your Foreigner’s Identification number in Spain) and proof of residency in Spain. To obtain your NIE, you’ll need to visit your nearest police station and fill out the necessary forms. Proof of residency in Spain can be obtained by providing a rental agreement or utility bill in your name.
Once you’ve collected all the required documents, you can move on to the next step in the process of changing your driving license in Spain.
Step 2: Book an Appointment at the Traffic Department
Now that you have gathered all the necessary documents, it’s time to make an appointment at the Traffic Department to begin the process of changing your driving license in Spain.
The appointment can be made online using the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) website. You will need to provide your personal details and select the office where you want to make the appointment.
Make sure to choose a date and time that is convenient for you, as rescheduling can be a hassle.
It’s important to note that the Traffic Department can be quite busy, so it’s advisable to book your appointment well in advance to avoid any delays in the process.
On the day of your appointment, make sure to arrive on time, as being late can also cause delays.
Once you arrive at the Traffic Department, you will need to present your documents and have your photo taken. You will then be given a code that will allow you to track the progress of your application online.
After your application has been processed, you will receive a notification via SMS or email to collect your new Spanish driving license.
Overall, booking an appointment at the Traffic Department is a crucial step in the process of changing your driving license in Spain. Make sure to prepare all the necessary documents and choose a convenient date and time to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
Step 3: Take a Medical and Psychological Exam
Now that you have gathered all the documents required for changing your driving license in Spain, it’s time to move on to the next step.
The third step is to take a medical and psychological exam.
This exam ensures that you are fit to drive and can safely drive on the roads of Spain. The exam is mandatory for all drivers, regardless of the type of driving license they hold.
The medical examination includes a general check-up, eye test, and hearing test. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure to wear them during the eye test. You will also be asked about any chronic diseases or medications you are taking.
The psychological examination includes a test that assesses your reaction times, decision-making abilities, and attention span. The test is meant to determine whether you are fit to drive and have the right mindset while doing so.
You can take the medical and psychological exam at any authorized center in Spain. Once you pass the exam, you will receive a certificate that you need to submit along with the other documents in step four.
Step 4: Provide Payment and Submit Your Application
After successfully filling out the required application form and ensuring that you have all the necessary supporting documents, the next step towards getting your Spanish driving license would be making the payment and submitting your application.
The payment for the application can be made at any of the authorized driving license offices in Spain. The cost of changing your driving license varies depending on which country’s license you are converting. It is also worth noting that the fee is non-refundable, so make sure you have all the required documents and information before paying.
Once you have made the payment, you can submit your application. You can either submit it in person at the DGT office or send it by post. If you choose to send it by post, be sure to do so via a registered postal service and ensure that all the required documents are attached.
The processing time for your application can take up to three months, although it can be shorter depending on the time of the year you apply. During peak periods, like summer holidays, it can take longer than three months, so make sure you plan accordingly.
It is also worth noting that your original driving license will be returned to you via post within a few weeks of processing your application.
Once your new Spanish driving license is ready, you will be informed by email or post. You can then collect it in person or request for it to be sent to your home address. Congratulations, you now have a Spanish driving license!
Step 5: Await Your New Spanish Driving License
Now that you have submitted your application to change your driving license in Spain, it’s time to wait for your new driving license to arrive. The process typically takes around two to three months to complete, but it may take longer depending on the time of year and the number of applications being processed.
In the meantime, you can continue to use your current driving license from your home country as long as it is still valid. Be sure to carry it with you at all times when driving in Spain, just in case you are stopped and asked to show it to a police officer.
If you need to travel outside of Spain while you are waiting for your new driving license to arrive, you can request a certificate from the traffic department (Jefatura de Tráfico) that verifies that you have initiated the process to change your driving license. This certificate should help you avoid any potential issues with local authorities in other countries.
Once your new Spanish driving license arrives, be sure to check it carefully to make sure that all of the information is correct. If you notice any errors or discrepancies, contact the traffic department immediately to have them corrected.
Finally, congratulations on successfully changing your driving license in Spain. You are now legal to drive in Spain with a Spanish driving license!
Conclusion
Conclusion:
Changing your driving license in Spain is a process that requires patience and persistence. However, if you are prepared and follow the steps outlined above, you can avoid unnecessary complications and delays. Remember to gather all the required documents, choose a convenient date and time for your appointment at the Traffic Department, take the medical and psychological exams and make your payment, and then wait for your new Spanish driving license to arrive. By completing all these steps, you can legally drive in Spain and enjoy exploring this beautiful country with confidence.
