How to Change Your Foreign European Driver’s License to a Spanish One

If you’re a European immigrant living in Spain, at some point you will need to change your foreign driver’s license to a Spanish driver’s license. Although there’s no immediate rush to do so until your current license nears expiration, it’s recommended to start the process about six months before the expiration date. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

When to Change Your License

You only need to change your foreign license before it expires. However, you can begin the process sooner if you wish. Starting the process six months before your license expires is ideal to ensure everything is completed in time.

The Psicotécnico Test

One mandatory requirement for obtaining a Spanish driver’s license is the psicotécnico test, a standard procedure for all Spanish drivers and those converting to a Spanish license. Up to the age of 65, the test and license renewal occur every 10 years. After the age of 65, you will need to renew every 5 years. Each renewal also requires completing the psicotécnico test.

Steps to Change Your License

Step 1: Schedule Your DGT Appointment

Before anything else, you need to make an appointment at the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico). This step is crucial because getting an appointment can be challenging, so it’s important not to wait until the last moment. Appointments can be made online via the DGT appointment system.

Step 2: Get Your Picture Taken

You will need to bring a photo with the dimensions of 32×26 mm. The photo requirements are the same as for an ID: no smiling, ears visible, and a plain background. You can go for example to Foto Express, and get a set of 8 photos for €5.50. When you inform them that the photo is for a driver’s license, they will ensure it meets the correct specifications.

Step 3: Schedule and Complete the Medical Test

Once you have your DGT appointment, you can then book an appointment for the medical test. This can be done online at (for example) Reconocimientos Médicos Canarias. When you go for the test, bring your ID/passport, your green NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), and your driver’s license. At the medical center, inform them of your appointment for the psicotécnico test. They will take a picture of you (which is not for the driver’s license, it’s only for this test) and you will need to confirm some personal details such as your country of birth, zipcode, and address.

The first part of the test is a reflex test where you will sit in a chair with a screen and a machine with two handles. The screen will display two wide red lines with white balls in the middle, and you need to keep the white balls in the middle of the red lines as they move and curve using the handles.

After passing this test, you will move on to the medical check, which includes checking your blood pressure, answering questions about your health, any medication you take, and any past accidents. You will also perform a simple eye test. If you pass all these checks, you will receive a certificate, which you can bring to the DGT. The entire process typically takes about 10 minutes from entering to leaving, including the tests.

Step 4: Attend Your DGT Appointment

The DGT is conveniently located in the same building as the Fayna Medical Center. After leaving the medical center, turn left, and you will find the DGT entrance. You can check in at the ‘pantalla’ (screen) with your NIE number 30 minutes before your scheduled time to get a number and wait for your turn.

Make sure to bring the medical test results, your ID/passport, your green NIE, your driver’s license, and the filld in application form, and an ID picture sized 32×26. It’s recommended to also bring your volante de padrón, in case there’s doubt about your residency address.

When it is your turn, submit all the paperwork. You will receive a temporary driver’s license and surrender your foreign driver’s license. Your new Spanish driver’s license will arrive by mail within 1,5-6 months maximum.

Costs Involved

The process involves several costs. The fee at the DGT can vary approximately between €24 and €29. The Fayna Medical Center charged €45 for the medical test, though prices may vary per medical center. The photos cost €5.50 at Foto Express.

Choosing the Fayna Medical Center is particularly convenient due to its proximity to the DGT.

Summary

What to Prepare?

• Schedule your DGT appointment first.
• Book your medical test appointment.
• Arrange for a passport-sized photo with dimensions of 32×26 mm. Ensure it meets ID photo requirements (no smiling, ears visible, plain background).

What to Bring?

For the Medical Test:

• ID/Passport
• Green NIE
• Driver’s License

For the DGT Appointment:

• Results from the medical test
• ID/Passport
• Green NIE
• Passport-sized photo
• Filled in application form
• Recommended: Volante de empadronamiento (certificate of residence)

Cost

• DGT fee: €24.58 (prices may vary)
• Medical test fee at Fayna Medical Center: €45 (prices may vary)
• Passport photo at Foto Express: €5.50 (prices may vary)

Conclusion

Changing your foreign European driver’s license to a Spanish one is a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Make sure to book your medical test well in advance and bring all necessary documents to avoid any delays. Don’t forget to make your DGT appointment early to ensure you secure a slot. Once you complete the process, you can look forward to receiving your new Spanish driver’s license in the mail. Good luck!