EUROPEAN DRIVING LICENCE AND THE SPANISH VERSION

There was some panic on the Costa, as expatriates read various irresponsibly written articles, which were recently published in a few of our English language newspapers.  These apparently informative articles, with titles such as; ‘New European ruling,  a medical certificate must accompany your European driving licence to legalise the permission’  One of the authors was either lethargic or solely interested in sensationalistic titles, obviously without checking his or her information,  readers were provided with a link which lead them to the British embassy website.  Sigh of relief?  No wait for it, this link was supplying useful information from DVLA.  This is handy if you are living in the UK and you are seeking information regarding your British driving licence.  

Whatever the rules from Europe, Spain or any other European countries, the facts are confusing. Trafico have had to do their homework but do not appear to have the solution.  They too suggest that there is a law which agrees with the health test.  Until there is some logical and consensual information, my suggestion is that you either continue with your present licence or, (as the Spanish law states) ‘residents in Spain, must conform to Spanish laws’ this taken literally means, changing your permit for the Spanish equivalent.

Changing you licence is a simple process.  A Spanish model is very useful both relieving you of any problems with the traffic police and as an additional form of identity.  For those using addresses in the UK to continue to illegally renew their licences in the UK will find that this avenue will in time, be closed to them. Please note; the official medical testing centres, will only provide you with a medical certificate valid for three months, this (where necessary) used to exchange your licence.  You will not be provided with a certificate for five or ten years. This is only available with a Spanish licence.  For those who have already taken a medical test, please check at the bottom of the certificate where you will see printed ‘caducado en tres meses’ (expires in three months).