Driving licence validity in Spain (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: A Spanish category B permit is valid for 10 years, or 5 years from age 65. Renewal requires proof of psychophysical fitness, and an expired permit does not allow driving.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Validity of a car licenceLicence validity | A category B permit is valid for 10 years while the holder is under 65, and for 5 years from the age of 65. [1] |
| Medical check for renewalLicence validity | Extending the validity requires the holder to prove that they still have the psychophysical aptitudes needed for the permit. [1] |
| Rules for older driversLicence validity | From the age of 65 the validity of a category B permit drops from 10 years to 5 years. [1] |
| Who renews the licenceLicence validity | The Jefaturas Provinciales de Tráfico (provincial traffic offices) extend the validity of permits on request. [1] |
| Driving with an expired licenceLicence validity | A permit whose validity has expired does not allow the holder to drive. Using it leads to its immediate seizure by the authority or its agents, who send it to the provincial traffic office. The text does not give a fine amount. [1] |
Notes
- The fine for driving with an expired permit is set in the traffic law and its penalty schedule, which were not read for this entry.
Sources
- Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado: Real Decreto 818/2009, de 8 de mayo, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento General de Conductores (texto consolidado) (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.