Driving Licence Points In Spain And How The System Works
Expat Tips
Published: 03 July 2019 01:01 CET
Updated: 27 April 2025 16:42 CET
How Spain’s Driving Licence Points System Works
Since 2006, Spain has used a points-based driving licence system to encourage safer driving and reduce road accidents. Every driver starts with a certain number of points, and these can be lost due to traffic violations. If you lose all your points, you lose your licence. The system is overseen by the DGT, which uses roadside checks and automated cameras to track infringements.
Understanding how the points system works can help you avoid fines, penalties, and long-term restrictions on your driving rights in Spain.
Starting Points
Every driver begins with a different points allocation depending on their experience level. The progression system rewards safe behaviour over time, allowing drivers to build up a larger buffer against minor infractions.
- New drivers begin with 8 points.
- After 3 years without losing points, you increase to 12 points.
- After another 3 years with a clean record, you can reach a maximum of 15 points.
How You Lose Points
Common Infractions
Points are deducted when you commit traffic offences. Many of these are monitored by DGT officers, fixed speed cameras, or mobile enforcement units placed across Spain’s road network.
- Using a mobile phone while driving: 6 points
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: up to 6 points
- Speeding: 2 to 6 points depending on severity
- Not wearing a seatbelt or helmet: 4 points
- Ignoring traffic signals: 4 points
Fines That Might Surprise You
Unexpected Penalties
Not all fines are for obvious offences. Here are some unexpected ways you can lose points or face hefty penalties in Spain:
What Happens If You Lose All Your Points?
If you run out of points, your licence is revoked. This is taken very seriously by the DGT, and driving after revocation is considered a criminal offence in Spain under Article 384 of the Penal Code. This can lead to fines, community service, or even prison sentences in serious cases.
- Wait 6 months (3 months for professional drivers).
- Take a road awareness and re-education course (24 hours).
- Pass a theory test.
How Points Are Deducted Automatically
Many modern penalties are triggered automatically. Speed cameras, belt-detection cameras, and mobile phone detection systems are linked directly to the DGT database. Once an infraction is verified, the system automatically deducts points and sends a notification to the driver’s registered address or their MiDGT digital mailbox.
How To Recover Points
Course Recovery vs Natural Recovery
If you’ve lost some points but not all, you can regain up to 6 points by attending a DGT-approved course — but only once every two years (once a year for professional drivers). These courses focus on risk awareness, attitude, and safe decision-making behind the wheel.
You can also recover points naturally by not committing any further infractions for 2 years (or 3 years if the offence was serious). Maintaining a clean record strengthens your long-term driving profile and reduces the likelihood of future penalties.
New in 2025
The DGT has introduced new measures to improve road safety for all drivers in Spain.
- A new optional course called “Conducción Segura y Eficiente” allows drivers to gain an extra 2 bonus points — only available to those with a clean record. This incentive aims to encourage proactive safe driving.
- Drivers aged 65+ must now pass enhanced medical and cognitive tests when renewing their licence, including reaction time and memory assessments.
How To Check Your Points
You can check your current balance of points easily through official DGT channels:
FAQ
Do foreign driving licences have points in Spain?
EU licences generally follow Spain’s points system once registered with the DGT. Non-EU licences normally do not have points unless the holder exchanges them for a Spanish licence.
Can you lose points while driving a rental car?
Yes. Rental companies are obligated to identify the driver to the DGT, so any points from a camera-detected offence are deducted from the renter’s licence, not from the company.
How long does it take to recover points automatically?
If you avoid further infringements, points return after 2 years, or 3 years if the original offence was serious.
Conclusion
Spain’s points-based driving licence system rewards safe drivers while penalising risky behaviour, making it essential to understand how points are gained, lost, and recovered. Staying informed helps you avoid unnecessary fines, maintain your driving privileges, and remain compliant with DGT regulations. Keeping track of your points and driving habits is one of the easiest ways to stay safe and legally protected on Spanish roads.
Because penalties, collisions, and licence issues can all lead to unexpected medical needs, many residents choose to have private health insurance for fast access to treatment. Road-related incidents — even minor ones — can require medical checks, scans, or emergency support, and private healthcare ensures you’re seen quickly.
View affordable Sanitas health insurance plans for residents in Spain — a reliable option if you want fast appointments, English-speaking support, and peace of mind while driving in Spain.
