If you’re visiting Spain, you can drive on your UK licence. Once you become resident, though, you have six months to exchange it for a Spanish one. Do it in time and there’s no test; after six months, a UK licence is no longer valid for residents.

When the six months start

Your six months usually start from the date on your residence card or your padrón registration. Note the date and book early. If your UK licence has expired, renew it with the DVLA before you exchange it.

What you’ll need

Get a driver’s medical certificate from an authorised centro de reconocimiento de conductores, and a recent padrón certificate, as many DGT offices want one under three months old. Pay the fee of about €28.85 with modelo 790 código 011. Bring your UK licence, passport, TIE, padrón certificate, a photo, the medical certificate and the fee receipt.

At the appointment

Book the canje, the licence exchange, on the DGT electronic office. You hand over your UK licence, which is sent back to the DVLA, and get a temporary Spanish permit. The plastic card arrives by post within a few weeks. Remember to give your insurer your new licence details.

Don’t miss the deadline: follow our exchanging your UK driving licence checklist, and see our guide to moving to Spain from the UK.