Renewing your Spanish driving licence after 65: a comprehensive guide

For those over 65 in Spain, renewing a driving licence is a necessary procedure that must be completed every five years. This process ensures that older drivers maintain the necessary skills and health to navigate the roads safely.

According to the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), age does not restrict driving in Spain; rather, it is an individual's abilities and skills that determine their fitness to drive. While most drivers renew their licences every ten years, the timeline shortens significantly for those aged 65 and older. For drivers of buses and trucks, this period is even shorter, requiring renewal every three years.

With increased frequency of renewal comes a requirement for more regular medical and fitness checks, ensuring the safety of both the driver and other road users.

How to renew your licence

Renewing your driving licence can be done either online or in person, although the psychophysical exam must be completed in person.

In person

To begin the renewal process in person, visit an authorized Driver's Licence Recognition Centre. There are numerous Centros de Reconocimiento de Conductores throughout Spain, making it convenient to find a location nearby.

For those aged 65 and above, the DGT permits visits to any office during operating hours without needing an appointment. During this visit, you will undergo a psicotécnico exam, which evaluates your health, psychomotor abilities, reaction times, and balance. The medical report generated from this exam is valid for 90 business days, so it is advisable to complete your renewal promptly.

It is crucial to remember that the application must be submitted personally; you cannot apply on behalf of someone else. The process at these offices can also include taking your photo for the new licence.

There is a fee for the medical examination and traffic services, totaling €24.58. However, individuals over 70 are exempt from this charge. Once the renewal is finalized, you will receive a provisional permit, allowing you to drive while waiting for the official licence to arrive by post, which typically takes about six weeks.

Online

For online renewals, you will need to visit the DGT website. New users must register with a cl@ve PIN. The online form will require your personal details and the uploading of your medical examination results along with any necessary photographs.

This method provides a convenient alternative for those who prefer to handle their renewal digitally, although it still necessitates the completion of a medical exam in person.

Renewing your driving licence in Spain after the age of 65 is straightforward, with options available both online and in person. Understanding the requirements and processes involved will help ensure that you remain compliant and safe on the roads.