SPAIN’S driving licence rules for over-65s are getting a refresh in 2026 – here’s what you need to know.
Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, have announced that, starting this year, over-65s will have to renew their driving licence, for both cars and motorcycles, every five years, compared with the previous ten year rule.
For professional drivers, including lorry drivers, the renewal period is shorter: they must renew every three years if they are over 65.
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To renew your licence you must attend a Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores and undergo a medical assessment.
During the assessment your vision, hearing, reflexes and blood pressure are checked to determine fitness to drive.
Provided the test goes smoothly staff will then take a photo, issue paperwork and send the renewal information to the DGT.
You will then be issued with a temporary driving permit and a new physical licence will arrive in the post within a few weeks.
The process comes with a fee: the DGT currently charges €24.58 to renew while test centres typically charge between €20 and €50 for a medical check.
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Over 70s do not have to pay the DGT fee but must still undergo a medical test and cover the cost.
There is still no upper age limit for driving in Spain with all motorists permitted to stay on the roads provided they pass medical tests.
The new measures are designed to strengthen road safety by ensuring that older drivers are regularly assessed for their continued fitness to drive.
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