In Spain, the majority of roads in the national network are free to use, including dual carriageways, which are separate carriageways in both directions with no level crossings. However, some roads may be subject to tolls, such as motorways. Toll charges vary depending on the road, but there are always alternative routes available that are free of charge. You can view the list of toll motorways via this link.

Tolls can be paid in cash, by bank card or via electronic toll collection. The latter requires a device to be fitted to your car.

Driving licences and accessories

When travelling by car, it is important to check whether your driving licence is valid for driving in Spain. Licences issued by countries in the European Union and the European Economic Area – which include Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway – are considered valid in Spain provided they are still valid.

However, if you are coming from a country outside this area, it is recommended that you apply for an international driving permit before arriving in Spain. This permit supplements your original driving licence and is valid for one year. You must also present your passport and your foreign driving licence, in addition to the international driving permit, in order to drive legally.

As regards vehicles, they must be fitted with the following equipment in the event of an emergency:

• Two red warning triangles, one of which must be placed in front of the vehicle and the other behind it in the event of an accident or breakdown;
• A high-visibility vest, kept inside the passenger compartment (not in the boot), which you must wear if you leave the vehicle in the event of a breakdown or an accident;
• A spare tyre and a repair kit;
• A complete set of spare bulbs, along with the tools needed to replace them;
• Snow chains if you’re travelling in adverse winter conditions.
• If you plan to travel abroad with your vehicle, your number plate must display the Latin capital letters corresponding to the Arabic letters in the number. You must also display the ‘MA’ symbol on the rear of the vehicle to indicate that it is registered in Morocco.
• Your vehicle must be covered by a motor insurance policy that is valid internationally.

Key regulations

In Spain, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. All passengers are required to wear seatbelts, and there are speed limits on all roads. The speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways and dual carriageways, 90 km/h on ordinary roads and 30 km/h in built-up areas.

It is also important to comply with the following standards:

• The use of a mobile phone whilst driving is prohibited unless a hands-free device is used;
• Overtaking must only be carried out on the left;
• Children under 135 centimetres in height are not permitted to sit in the front seat and must always be secured in an approved child restraint. It is recommended that backrest car seats be used until the child reaches a height of 150 centimetres.

Any breach of these rules may result in a fine payable on the spot.

Support and emergencies

Here are some telephone numbers that may be useful in the event of a breakdown, a medical emergency, theft, etc.:

• Emergencies (medical, breakdowns, etc.): 112;
• National Police: 091;
• Municipal Police: 092;
• Guardia Civil (national police force): 062;
• Fire brigade: 080 or 085;
• Traffic information (DGT): 011;
• If your bank card is stolen:
  • To cancel a Visa card in Spain: 900 991 124;
  • To cancel a MasterCard in Spain: 900 971 231;
  • To cancel an American Express credit card in Spain: 900 814 500.

Important: In the event of a medical emergency, do not worry about insurance issues and go straight to the nearest A&E department (urgencias). Under Spanish law, all healthcare centres (whether private or public) must treat a patient in an emergency, regardless of their insurance cover or nationality!

However, it is up to the nurse or doctor you call to decide what constitutes a genuine emergency. Use the European emergency number 112 if you need an ambulance.

Finally, for a list of doctors who speak a foreign language, it is advisable to contact the local embassy or consulate. They will provide you with a list of authorised doctors.

• Crossings
• Temporary Admission of Vehicles
• Luggage and formalities