Driving in Spain with a coat? You could face a €200 fine – here’s why

It might feel like common sense to keep your coat on in winter – but in Spain, doing so behind the wheel could actually land you a fine of up to €200. The coat is not important, but the effect it has on your driving.

As the temperatures begin to drop, many drivers will get into their vehicles still wearing thick jackets or padded outerwear. Spain’s Traffic Authority, however, has a different view. DGT, is warning that this everyday habit can become a problem – especially if it limits your movement or affects how your seatbelt works.

Spain driving regulations: wearing a coat could get you fined

There’s no specific law that says “you can’t drive with a coat on” – and that’s where many people get confused.

The actual law says more. According to Spain’s General Traffic Regulations (GTR), drivers must maintain complete control over their vehicle, be able to move freely, and have a wide field of vision.

In other words, anything that interferes with those basics can become an issue – including what you’re wearing.

For example, a bulky winter jacket can make it difficult to turn the steering, change gears, or look around. If your jacket is too tight or stiff around the neck, even something as simple turning your head quickly becomes more difficult.

Here’s the danger of a fine.

Seatbelt warnings: a detail that many drivers ignore

One of the biggest concerns raised by the DGT isn’t just movement – it’s safety.

Your coat from getting too thick seatbelt The belt does not sit properly against the body. Instead of fitting snugly, the belt rests on layers of padding and creates extra slack. This gap can decrease the effectiveness of a seatbelt in an accident and increase the risk for injury.

It’s a small detail, but an important one – and one that traffic officers are increasingly paying attention to.

When you could actually be fined – and how much it costs

Due to the lack of an explicit ban, enforcement is largely dependent on the judgment of officers from Guardia Civil or traffic police.

If they believe your clothing is affecting your ability to drive safely – whether that’s limiting your movement, reducing visibility or compromising the seatbelt – you could be fined.

In most cases, penalties range between €80 and €200, depending on how serious the situation is considered. It’s good to know that you won’t have any penalty points added to your license.

These are the situations that will likely lead to an increased fine:

• Very large or thickly padded jackets can make it difficult to steer or maneuver.
• High collars and hoods that limit neck movement or side visibility
• The seatbelt does not fit properly when wearing thick clothing

Simple advice to stay warm – and avoid problems

The solution is simple.

Check that you’re able to move easily in the car by warming it up. If your coat feels restrictive, it’s worth taking it off – even if just for the journey.

DGT advises that your seatbelt must be close to your body and your movements should always feel unrestricted and natural.

For expats in Spain – especially those not used to local driving rules – this is one of those small but important differences that can catch you off guard.

It’s important to understand that fines can be imposed for things other than the obvious.

The habits that you do not think twice about.