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Driving in Spain? Be prepared before you drive in Spain by knowing these rules.
Credit: Yta23, Shutterstock.
From speed traps to toll traps – what every driver must know before getting behind the wheel in Spain. Before you grab the keys to your car in Spain and rev off into the sunset, read this – because Spanish roads are not as carefree as you’d expect.
If you don’t know the driving rules in Spain, your road trip can become a nightmare.
Here’s your crash course in how to drive in Spain without landing yourself a massive fine – or worse, a starring role in ‘Plonkers Abroad.’
Speed limits can cost you your holiday money
Spanish roads can be smooth, scenic, and deceptively inviting when there are no other drivers around – but don’t be fooled. It is not uncommon for speed limits to change from 80 to 120 without any apparent reason. This is especially true when you approach a speeding camera. When it comes to speeding, ignorance is not an excuse. Guardia Civil The door is knocking.
- In most urban areas, 30 km/h is the speed limit. – but some are 50 km/h. And some are only 20. Confused?
- Country Roads max out at 90 km/h – but can drop to 80 or 60 without warning.
- Motorways (autopistas)? The top speed is 120 km/h i most areas – unless there’s a jam, a cop, or a camera waiting. As previously mentioned, drivers can reduce their speed without any apparent reason. There are no obvious hazards ahead.
No comment on Rule 2.
There is no comment to be made on roundabouts. Just to say – the rule in theory – are the same as in the UK and every other European country. To find out the truth, read about Driving on Spanish roundabouts here.
What is the third rule of drinking and driving? Rule 3) Drink driving?
Spain’s drink-drive limits are lower than the UK – and enforcement is now high.
New Legal Limits for 2025
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): Reduced to 0.2g/L from 0.5g/L.
- Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC): Reduced from 0.25 to 0.10 mg/L.
That’s Just a little bit of wineFanta is the best choice for driving.
Expect frequent roadside inspections. You can expect frequent roadside inspections. Guardia Civil The following are some examples of how to get started: Policía Local love a random alcohol test – especially near bars and after big football matches.
Rule 4) Don’t leave home without an emergency kit
You must have a car kit with you in case you breakdown.
Complimentary gear
- Reflective yellow vest Put it on Then, (Exiting your vehicle)
- Warning triangles They’re being phased-out.
- V16 emergency beacon The new must-have item for 2026 is the flashy, brightly colored gadget.
Rental cars are available. Take a look at the following: Kit yourself out. But double check – or face a fine if you’re caught without the proper gear.
Rule 5) Toll roads: Pay to play – or sit in traffic
Some regions are in love with toll roads, while others could care less. Madrid? There aren’t many. Valencia? Toll City
You can use:
- You can pay with cash, credit card, or a phone at the booth.
- Telepeaje Electronic Tag (Go Right)
Pro tip? Toll roads are usually empty – locals avoid them unless they’re in a real rush.
Rule 6) Parking zones: Green vs Blue – what’s the deal?
You can park with ease If you want to know more about if You know the system. Spain uses a code of two colours:
- Blue zones: Cheapest. Parking is usually free. Up to 4 hours.
- Green zones: For residents – outsiders get Two hours maximum You’ll pay more.
You’ll need either:
- It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. parking app Easy and location-based
- Or, you can use an old-fashioned ticket machine on the street (reliable and reliable). You can normally pay by cash, card or phone. Some older machines will only accept coins. Try to find a new one. Also, if the old one is broken, you can warn the parking attendant. Usually, they’re very reasonable.
Underground car parks are plentiful – but some are expensive, particularly in city centres.
Rule 7) Cyclists and bikers rule the roads – and not always by the book.
There are more than just cars on the road in Spain. Cyclists and motorbikes are everywhere – weaving through traffic, squeezing into gaps, and often moving much faster than the rest of us.
By law, drivers must leave at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking a cyclist – and that rule is there for good reason. Even though cycle lanes exist, they are not always clearly marked. Many cyclists choose to ride on the main road, even when there are no designated bike lanes. You’ll also see cyclists riding between cars, sometimes through red lights or in unexpected places. Whether it’s due to habit, confidence, or simply the layout of local roads, it means cyclists can be difficult to anticipate – so stay alert.
Motorbikes, meanwhile, move fast. Very fast. In the city and on motorways, cyclists often overtake and change lanes without warning. If you drive regularly in Spain, you’ll know just how often this happens – it’s part of daily life on the road.
But that doesn’t mean all two-wheelers will be reckless. But given their size and speed, they can appear suddenly in your blind spot – especially at roundabouts or in dense city traffic. Keep calm, drive predictably. It’s worth being extra cautious.
Rule 8) Mobile phones: Hands-off
Why is it illegal to drive with a phone in your hand? Illegal. Texting? Texting? The following are some examples of how to get started: illegal. Even headphones have been banned.
The fine? €200+. Yes, you can get the police for more than EUR200. You can also find out more about the following: It is a must.
Use a proper dashboard mount for GPS if you must – but don’t touch the phone unless you’re parked with the handbreak on and the engine off.
No stickers for low emission zones? No entry.
In cities like Madrid, Malaga y Barcelona, green is the new black – and petrolheads aren’t welcome without the right eco-sticker.
The sticker breakdown is as follows:
- B (yellow).: Older petrol and some diesel cars – least access
- C (green): Slightly newer petrol/diesel – limited access
- ECO: Hybrids and gas conversions – more access
- Zero (blue): Electric only – full access
No sticker or the wrong sticker? Say adiós to the city centre.
Drive safe, but smart
Driving in Spain can be a dream – or a bureaucratic road rage nightmare if you don’t follow the rules. Be aware, respect the road hierarchy and stick to the limit.
Take the train, and you can drink sangria with no worries.
Have you ever experienced a horror driving story in Spain? Do you have any driving horror stories to tell? Comment below to help other drivers stay out of trouble.
Hasta luego!
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