DGT Updates Driving Licence Rules for Over-65s

Continuing to drive does not depend on age, but on the condition of the driver’s abilities and skills.

From the age of 65 onwards, and to ensure that the ability to drive remains intact, the validity period of the driving licence   reduced.
The aim is to increase the frequency of medical and aptitude checks so that continuing to drive remains safe for everyone.
In this way, the maximum validity periods for driving licences would be:

The medical examination that must be passed and the criteria to be evaluated are the same for any age. It is possible that if a disease or deficiency is detected during the medical examination that, while it does not currently prevent the renewal, may worsen in the future, the validity period of the driving licence will be shorter. In this case, the fee you must pay to renew it will also be lower.

If you are over 70 years old, you are exempt from paying the traffic renewal fees; you will only need to pay the cost of the medical examination.

Renewing a driving licence for someone over 65 is similar to any other renewal:

– Go to an authorised Driver Recognition Centre and let them know you want to renew your driving licence.
– You’ll be able to complete the entire renewal process there, including having your photo taken on the spot. They will charge you for the medical examination and the traffic renewal fee. If you are over 70, you are exempt from paying the fee.
– When the renewal process is completed, you will be given a provisional licence that allows you to drive within Spain until you receive the permanent one.
– You will receive your new licence at your home address in about a month and a half, with no further action or fees required.

To renew your driving licence:
Walk-in service for people aged 65 and over:
If you are 65 or older, you can go to our offices during the service hours indicated for each traffic office and carry out your procedure in person *without needing to book an appointment*. Please note that the procedure must be for yourself—you cannot come to carry out a procedure on behalf of someone else. Our staff will assist you and explain how to complete the process easily.

IMPORTANT: Licence exchanges for countries with agreements *cannot* be done without an appointment, as verification with the country of origin is required and must always be done by appointment.

• Procedure cost

Standard cost: €24.58
FEE TYPE: 4.3

Cost for those over 70 years of age:

Free of charge

Renew your Licence

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.