If you were living in Spain before 1 January 2021, your valid UK driving licence will be recognised for driving in Spain until 28 February 2022.
If you moved to Spain after 1 January 2021, your valid UK licence will be recognised for 6 months from the date you obtained residence, or until 28 February 2022, whichever is later.
If you live in Spain, you must exchange your UK driving licence for a Spanish one. You cannot use an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead.
Read the Spanish Traffic Authority’s (DGT) guidance on using and exchanging licences in Spain (in Spanish, with English translation).
If you registered your details with the Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) before 30 December 2020
If you lived in Spain before 1 January 2021 and registered your details and intention to exchange with the DGT before 30 December 2020, you should have requested an appointment with the DGT to exchange your UK licence by 31 December 2021. If you did not complete the exchange before the deadline and need further information, contact the DGT.
If you did not register your details with DGT before 30 December 2020
If you did not register with DGT before 30 December 2020 and wish to obtain a Spanish driving licence now, you should follow the DGT process for non-EU nationals. This includes taking a driving test.
Driving in the UK with a Spanish licence
You can use your Spanish licence in the UK for short visits, or exchange it for a UK licence without taking a test.
Lost, stolen or expired UK licences
If you live in Spain, you will not be able to renew your driving licence in the UK. If your UK licence is lost, stolen or expired, you will need to apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for a ‘certificate of entitlement’ to be able to apply for a Spanish driving licence.