Spain introduces online driving licence validation for residents

In a bid to alleviate bureaucratic delays and streamline processes, Spain's Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) is set to digitalize the application procedures for residents wishing to validate and exchange their foreign driving licences without the need for an in-person visit.

Soon, residents in Spain will have the ability to validate their foreign driving licences online, eliminating the tedious requirement of navigating the documentation process at DGT offices. This initiative aims to address the significant backlogs and limited availability of appointments that have plagued the system.

As reported by various sources, including The Local, securing an appointment at the DGT can often feel like an insurmountable challenge. The situation has escalated to the point where the Spanish daily El País has characterized it as “an almost impossible mission.”

The scarcity of available appointments is compounded by the fact that many are monopolized by private entities or individuals who block-book slots. Additionally, a shortage of DGT staff at physical locations further exacerbates the problem, causing even basic procedures to take weeks or months. The DGT has acknowledged that validating foreign driving licences is among “the most complex procedures” it handles.

The process of exchanging a driving licence can be lengthy and frustrating. It requires prior verification from the issuing authority, a medical examination, proof of residence in Spain, and, for professional drivers, an aptitude test. This entails multiple documents and often necessitates several visits to the DGT office.

The forthcoming online system is designed to expedite these procedures. However, it will only be accessible to drivers from countries with which Spain has bilateral agreements for the reciprocal recognition and exchange of driving licences. The DGT provides a list of these countries, which includes non-European Economic Area (EEA) states such as Andorra, Argentina, Algeria, and Brazil, among others.

Drivers holding licences from other non-EU nations will face the requirement to retake both the theory and practical driving exams after six months of residency in Spain. Conversely, those with licences from EU and EEA countries may continue driving in Spain, provided their licences are valid. They also have the option to exchange their licences voluntarily at any point.

The online application process will require users to submit all relevant documents electronically. Applicants will need to visit their nearest provincial DGT headquarters to present their original, valid licence and receive a provisional licence, which will later be mailed to their home address.

To access the DGT’s ‘Electronic Headquarters,’ users must be registered in the Cl@ve system or possess a digital certificate. During the application, individuals must indicate the class of licence they wish to exchange. If the licence pertains to a lorry or bus, additional tests may be mandated, contingent on the issuing country.

For licences issued by certain countries, including Algeria, Bolivia, and Colombia, prior verification from the original issuing authority is required before proceeding with the exchange. Applicants will receive an email notification regarding the status of their verification request, which includes essential details such as the date of issue and expiry.

This innovative approach promises to make the process of driving licence validation and exchange in Spain more efficient, ultimately benefiting residents navigating the complexities of administrative procedures.