Driving Licence Fine Appealed Successfully

CAB Spain was asked by one of her members to assess the validity of a fine received for not having changed a UK licence for a Spanish driving permit. Member RJC was stopped in La Linea for having a headlight out and fined on one of the first days of January this year, so just after the ´no-fines window´ of one year since the ´2 year resident protocol´ from DGT/Trafico was introduced, had ended.

She had been a resident in Spain for over 2 years, but had a pink photo card licence issued for only Categories B and B1. In our opinion, as the licence was valid for 10 years, it was within the maximum number of 15 years for that category. The licence was valid and legal.  We advised RJC  to appeal and also advised on the correct procedure to do so which included to not make use of the discounted payment as by doing that, you waive your rights to an appeal.

RJC decided not to pay the fine, but to visit Trafico instead. They would not respond to her questions about the legality of the fine, so she filled out the forms  there and then and appealed the fine.

Last week, after a further visit to Trafico to enquire after any response to her appeal, she was informed that the fine was not justified, she could basically rip up the fine and the policeman who had issued the fine was incorrect.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.