Brits In Spain Still In Doubt Over Driving Licence Exchange Following Embassy Update
Spain News
Published: 07 February 2022 14:02 CET
British expats living in Spain are currently, until the end of February, allowed to drive in Spain using their UK driving licences.
There have been several extensions to the UK licence expiry date since the Brexit transition period ended, however, following an update to their Facebook page, the British Embassy has said there can be ‘no guarantees’ that this will happen again.
Brits living in Spain who didn’t exchange their UK driving licence before the end of the transition period, have to apply for a Spanish licence if they wish to continue driving in the country. They will also need to take a theory and driving test in Spanish.
It might be possible for expats to take the theory test in English but they would have to pay an extra fee to do this.
The theory exam currently costs 92 euros (£77) while the practical test costs 123 euros (£103).
Taking a driving test in Spain is unlike the test you would take in the UK, as sometimes the test is taken by a group of people who take it in turns to drive.
On its official Facebook page ‘Brits in Spain’, the British Embassy said: “Many of you have been in touch with us to ask whether you will continue to be able to drive in Spain using a valid UK licence after February 28 2022, which marks the end of the current grace period.
“We recognise your concerns and want to reassure you that we remain fully committed to reaching a long-term agreement with Spain, so that residents can exchange their UK driving licences without taking a test.
“Spanish licence holders can in the UK and as UK licence holders can in the vast majority of other EU member states.
“Negotiations are ongoing. But we cannot provide any guarantees, so it is important that - if it is imperative for you to drive - you consider all your options, which may include looking into taking a driving test.
“We will continue to keep you updated on developments.”
The announcement prompted irritation and frustration among some British expats who do not wish to take a Spanish test, with comments such as the one from Carol Bell who said: “Having held a UK licence for over 50 years, and having worked as a driving instructor for a few years, I would find it very difficult to forget all the rules of the road that I have followed, and taught, over the years, and try to drive the Spanish way.
“Easier to just give up driving.”
Although Christine Gent commented “I’ve done the Spanish driving test after 47 years of UK and Italian driving.
“You would have no problem at all with it. Like anywhere, there are good and bad drivers in Spain.”
Joanne Whearity said “Ban the exchange of all Spanish licence holders to UK licences until reciprocal exchange arrangements are applied in Spain as your ‘diplomatic’ efforts don’t seem to be working.”
Whereas Michael Soffe said “As I am sure you know, many Brits never bothered to exchange when it was a straight swap and a simple process.
“They wish they had now.”
Graham Cunningham asked, “How many years have these people had to change over their licences?”.
“Wouldn’t it be better for the Embassy to use its resources to help out those who are in trouble due to unforeseen circumstances?”
The British Embassy has advised all British expats to follow the Brits in Spain Facebook page and register on the Government Living in Spain website in order to see all updates.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-spain
Source
https://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/1562042/british-expats-spain-driving-licence
https://www.facebook.com/BritsInSpain/posts/307429138084305
