Quick answer
UK licences can be exchanged with no test (2023 agreement). EU/EEA licences are valid but must be registered with the DGT. US and other non-EU licences can only be exchanged if your country/state has an agreement — otherwise you take the Spanish exams. You have 6 months from gaining residency, and all routes need a psicotécnico medical check.
By nationality
| Licence from | What you do |
|---|---|
| EU / EEA | Valid to use; register with the DGT. Exchange when it expires. |
| United Kingdom | Exchange with no test (2023 agreement) + psicotécnico. |
| United States | Exchange only if your state has an agreement; otherwise take the Spanish exams. |
| Other non-EU | Exchange if there's an agreement; otherwise take the theory + practical tests. |
The exchange process
- 1Book a DGT cita previaAppointments at the Jefatura de Tráfico go fast — book early or use a gestor.
- 2Do your psicotécnicoQuick medical/reflex check at an authorised centre.
- 3Submit your fileForeign licence, NIE/TIE, empadronamiento, photo, form and fee.
- 4Drive on the receiptYou usually get a temporary permit while the Spanish card is produced.
Skip the DGT paperwork
A gestor books the cita, handles the DGT file and the psicotécnico for you. We'll match you with an English-speaking one — free, no obligation.
Get help exchanging my licenceFrequently asked questions
Can I exchange my UK licence for a Spanish one without a test?▼
Yes. Under the UK–Spain agreement in force since 2023, UK licence holders resident in Spain can exchange (canjear) their licence for a Spanish one without sitting theory or practical tests — you just complete the DGT paperwork and a medical check.
How long can I drive in Spain on a foreign licence?▼
Once you become a legal resident, you can generally drive on a valid EU/EEA licence indefinitely (though you must register it), and on a non-EU licence for up to 6 months from gaining residency — after that you must exchange it or, where no agreement exists, take the Spanish test.
Can I exchange a US driving license in Spain?▼
It depends on your state. Spain has exchange agreements with only some US states; if yours isn't covered, you'll need to pass the Spanish theory and practical exams to get a licence. Check the current DGT list for your state.
What is the psicotécnico test?▼
It's a quick medical and psychometric fitness check (vision, reflexes, coordination) done at an authorised centre (centro de reconocimiento). It's required for the exchange and for renewing Spanish licences — it takes about 20 minutes.
What documents do I need to exchange my licence?▼
Typically: your foreign licence, passport and NIE/TIE, proof of address (empadronamiento), a photo, the psicotécnico certificate and the DGT application form and fee. A gestor can handle the DGT file and appointment for you.
Related guides & services
General information, not legal advice. DGT rules and country agreements change — confirm the current position for your licence with the DGT or a licensed gestor.