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The Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) issues the Spanish driving licence.
How the Spanish points-based system for driving licences works
Credit: Shutterstock, Lucia Fdez
Spain has a system of points-based licences, in which drivers begin with points that they lose for traffic violations. Spain rewards safe driving while punishing repeat offenders.
How many points will you start off with?
Drivers who have been licensed for over three years will start off with 12 points. New drivers who have less than three year’s experience begin with eight points. To reach the standard 12, they must show good driving behaviour.
How can you lose points from your driving licence in Spain
For traffic violations, drivers lose points. Some traffic violations result in a loss of only 2 points while serious offenses can lead to a loss of 6 points.
The consequences of speeding include Loss of 2 to six points are awarded depending on how far the driver went over the speed limit. The penalty for using a cell phone while driving is now six points. The penalty for drinking and driving is either 4 or 6, depending on your blood alcohol content. Both dangerous overtaking and running red lights result in a 4 point deduction. Seatbelt failure also results in a 4-point loss.
After a driver has reached zero points, his or her licence is revoked. To get it back, they must complete a road safety course, which costs more than €400, and pass a new driving test.
How can you recover points?
After three years of not committing any infractions, a driver’s total points will be restored to 12. After a driver has 12 points and drives safely for an additional three years, their total will be 15 points. What is Maximum allowed
Every two years, a driver can take a course in road safety to recover 6 points.
Spain has some the strictest road safety legislation in Europe. The points system, which is constantly updated to reduce accidents and stop reckless driving, has recently been increased in penalties for drunken driving and mobile phone use while driving.
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