Big shake-up for Spanish driving licences

Spanish Driving Licences are being reformed.

The new Spanish driving test will place more emphasis on safety awareness and real-life scenarios.
Credit: Shutterstock, Savanevich Viktar

You’re preparing to obtain your Spanish driving license? It’s time to put aside all the advice your friends have given you about memorizing answers just before bed. Pere Navarra, the head of Spain’s DGT has revealed live on TV that the theory test for driving is going to undergo a major overhaul.

For the time being, everything is a little dated. You have to sit in front a computer, answer 30 questions with multiple choices, cross your finger and hope for no more than 3 wrong answers. You’re done! But not for very long. Soon, the theory exam will be updated to reflect modern times. You won’t only need to know what is on page 42 in the Highway Code, but also how you spot problems before they occur.

Spanish Driving Theory Test: New Video Scenarios explained

It gets more interesting now: Instead of asking, “What is this road sign saying?” you’ll be shown video clips of proper road scenarios—think dodgy overtakes, busy crossings, and all the little things that catch even seasoned drivers out. No longer is it enough to have a good memory. You’ll need to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and demonstrate that you could keep calm if the situation were real.

Navarro explained it clearly: “Before there was a question, and a response. We want to know what you would do if things got risky. What’s the message? No more cramming to pass the test. From the start, you’ll have to drive like a professional.

The Spanish driving test has been changed to reflect the safety of drivers.

Let’s not hide the fact that Spain’s safety record on the road could be improved. Too many people end up in hospital—or worse—because new drivers don’t know how to handle themselves when something unexpected pops up. The DGT decided that it was time to act. Plan is to ensure that new drivers are alert, switched on and prepared for the real world of driving. Fewer accidents and tragedies will bring everyone a little more peace.

Currently, the test has a digital format, is quick and, to be honest, is a little predictable. You can expect some real changes when video scenarios are introduced. It’s not yet official, but it’s a good idea to practice more than the basics if your goal is to pass a theory test.

Tips for Passing Spain’s New Driving Licence Exam

Here’s a piece of advice for those who are preparing to take their Spanish driving test: don’t focus solely on the rules and signs. Ask experienced drivers what goes wrong when driving, and watch real footage. Get used to spotting hazards as they happen. Soon, the test will check for this.

In the end, these changes aren’t about making life harder for learners—they’re about making Spanish roads a lot safer for all of us. We can all agree that this is a good thing.


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About Liam Bradford

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Liam Bradford, a seasoned news editor with over 20 years of experience, currently based in Spain, is known for his editorial expertise, commitment to journalistic integrity, and advocating for press freedom.

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