New procedure to exchange your UK driving licence

The DGT has launched a new protocol overseeing the exchange of your UK driving licence, or obtaining a new Spanish licence, despite no official agreement having been signed between Spain and the UK. or having to obtain a new Spanish driving licence.

If you are a British citizen but have your habitual residence in Spain, you must submit an application before January 31st, 2020. If the application is lodged before the deadline you will be able to exchange your licence at your leisure during the following 9 months after Brexit, under the same conditions as other EU citizens.

Once the application has been accepted you will receive an email with confirmation of your request. If the traffic police need any more information from you they will call or email you. You will then recieve an email with confirmation of your request.

Two business days later you will be able to make an appointment to exchange your driving licence and receive your new Spanish licence. You have until nine months after Brexit to carry out the exchange.

This is perfect for anybody planning to come out to live in Spain this year.

After January 31st, normal EU protocols will not apply to British citizens exchanging their licences in Spain. A new protocol will be developed once an agreement has been reached between both countries.

Contact us if you need help exchanging your licence or importing your vehicle into Spain. Don’t delay, you only have until the end of the month and any mistake could cost you dearly!

Maria Luisa

María Luisa Cervantes is a chartered accountant who graduated from the University of Granada in 2002. Founder of Cervantes Alarcón Consulting, she is an experienced accountant and financial advisor who is a member of the Almería guild of economists. With more than 15 years of experience in business administration and international trade, she is also a subject matter expert in the UK - Spanish bilateral agreements which cover the rights of expats to live, work and retire in Spain.