Flip-flop shock: The truth about driving in sandals – and why the Guardia Civil might pull you over.
Credit: Circlephoto, Shutterstock.
Spain warns motorists: flip-flops may result in fines. The truth about driving in sandals – and why the Guardia Civil might pull you over.
There are many questions about whether it is legal to drive in flip-flops or sandals while in Spain. Is it legal to drive in flip-flops and sandals? Will you be pounced on by the Guardia Civil like Sergio Ramos? Will they let go of you like Harry Maguire after jogging around a corner, or will the Guardia Civil wave you through? Find out before you go.
This is the summer stinger which catches thousands of foreigners as well as Spaniards: you’re cruising along the Costa del Sol or zooming around the town in your comfortable flip-flops and then get hit with a fine, which stings worse than a Jellyfish at midnight on Benidorm Beach.
Can you? In order to get the best results, you should consider using Can you be fined in Spain for driving in flip-flops? Or is this just another urban legend about flip-flops?
The answer: yes… and no. Buckle up, because the Guardia Civil have spoken — and the rules might surprise you.
Technically, it is not illegal. It is a good idea to use a bilingual translator Risky
More and more people are switching from trainers to sandals or flip-flops as the temperature rises. While it may feel like you’re letting go, it can cost you a lot.
Flip-flops are not prohibited by law. That’s right – the Spanish traffic code doesn’t mention Chanclas By name, (that’s flip flops)
You can also read about it here here’s the catch: Articles 3.1, 17.1, and 18.1 of Spain’s Reglamento General de Circulación You can also say: Safe driving requires that drivers maintain control at all times and have the freedom to move about in a relaxed manner.
So, if a Guardia Civil officer decides your laid-back beach look is affecting your driving, you could be hit with a fine of up to €100. No points off your licence — but it still hurts.
Flip-flop fine or fashion faux pas?
Recent studies have shown that the number of people who are able to speak English is increasing. TikTok videoGuardia Civil slammed the door on the problem. What is their verdict?
‘Can you drive in flip-flops? Yes — unless they interfere with driving or could cause an accident.’
It’s the officer who decides. Expect a fine if you swerve or slid off the road because your flip-flops got stuck.
The DGT’s subtle hint: Ditch your beachwear
The Guardia Civil and DGT (traffic authority in Spain) recommend that drivers avoid wearing flip-flops, or loose shoes while driving.
Their advice? Choose proper shoes with a good grip that secure your foot — think trainers or closed sandals. You’ll stay on track and avoid trouble.
Because let’s face it — if your footwear could fly off at 120 km/h, it’s probably not roadworthy.
It’s not only your flip-flops which can get you into hot water
In Guardia Civil’s summer crackdown footwear isn’t only the fashion faux-pas that are under fire.
Wearing nothing but swimwear while driving, or having your music too loud, or even driving with your arm hanging out the window — all can be considered “distracted driving” or “unsafe posture” and lead to fines.
Here’s another twist to the story: Certain car colours are more frequently stopped by roadside checkersAccording to Guardia Civil, your car’s colour is a good indicator of its value. Is your car colour You can also find out more about the following: A red flag? That’s another story…
You can also find out more about the following: “” verdict
Driving in flip-flops It is a good idea to use a bilingual translatorn’t illegal in Spain — but it is Legal grey areas with teeth If your summer shoes interfere with driving, you can contact the Guardia Civil You can also find out more about us on our website. The right to fine you immediately.
Ask yourself this before you jump behind the wheels in your swimwear.
‘Will I be able to slam the brakes on every 35 seconds when a bike or car cuts me off?’
If the answer is ‘probably not,’ then maybe keep the flip-flops for the beach — and drive in something a bit more… pedal-friendly.
Flip-flops are not illegal in Spain. It is a good idea to use wreck your day.
Freshen up your life with more! Motoring News.
Find out more Spanish Living News.