Do Traffic Fines Prescribe?

To answer that question correctly, we must differentiate between the notification of a traffic offence, and the actual demand for payment of the sanction issued as a result of that offence.

The notification of a traffic offence must be sent within 3 months of the date of the offence if it´s a leve (light) offence, sanctionable with an amount under 100 euros.
6 months if it´s a grave (serious) or muy grave offence (very serious), sanctionable with an amount of 100 euros or more.

If you have been fined in person by a traffic officer, there is no possiblity for the fine to prescribe, as you have been notified on the spot of the offence committed.

´Administrative actions´ like a request to identify the driver or his/her address or publication of the notification on other media, like TESTRA, will interrupt the prescription window.

The window to send the actual demand for payment of the sanction/fine is a lot longer, 4 years. If you receive an embargo after that time, you can appeal and if you can justify that the fine has prescribed, the embargoed amount must be returned.

To avoid missing notifications sent by mail, you can subscribe to electronic notifications and even sms alerts to them.

FAQS HOW TO MAKE SURE A TRAFFIC FINE REACHES ME

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.