Driving in Spain
Many of the same driving rules apply in Spain as in the UK, but there are some key differences to bear in mind to avoid any unnecessary mistakes when driving.
Rules of the road
- Stick to the right: Unlike the UK, in Spain you drive on the right-hand side, so stay alert, especially when pulling out of junctions.
- Give way to the right: Drivers need to give way to vehicles approaching from their right at crossroads and intersections.
- Quiet that horn: The car horn should only be used in emergencies, particularly in urban or built-up areas.
- On-the-Spot fines: Spanish police can fine motorists for any driving infractions. For visitors and tourists, these must be paid immediately, or the car could be confiscated.
- Seat belts: All passengers must wear seat belts in both the front and back seats. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
- Speed limits: The general speed limits are 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, 100 km/h (62 mph) on main roads, 90 km/h (56 mph) on other roads, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas. Some residential areas have limits as low as 30 km/h (19 mph).
Important equipment for your car
You are legally required to carry at least one of each of the following items in your vehicle when driving in Spain:
- Reflective jacket: You must wear it if you need to get out of the car on the road or the hard shoulder.
- Warning triangle: For placing on the car should you need to stop unexpectedly.
- Spare tire and tools: Necessary to replace it.
- Set of bulbs and tools: Necessary to replace the bulbs.
- Headlamp beam deflectors: Required for driving at night.
Keep change for tolls
Make sure to keep money handy on any long drives, as it is possible that you will incur tolls when driving on most of Spain's major motorways and some smaller roads. The AA has a useful guide showing the cost of tolls for cars in Spain, so you can plan and prepare for the extra costs before you set off.
Embassies
In case of an emergency, you can contact your embassy for help:
- British Embassy Madrid: +34 917 146 300
- British Consulate Alicante: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate-General Barcelona: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate Ibiza: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate Malaga: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate Palma de Mallorca: +34 913 342 194
- British Consulate Santa Cruz de Tenerife: +34 913 342 194
*Content correct at time of writing and subject to change.
