The DGT Digitalises the Exchange of Driving Licences

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has launched a new digital service for exchanging driving licences from non-EU countries, aiming to simplify and expedite one of the most complex procedures for drivers. This initiative, available from today, primarily seeks to enhance citizen service quality and optimise the management of in-person appointments, freeing up space for other processes.

Until now, the process of exchanging a foreign licence, which includes verifications with the country of origin, medical checks, proof of residence, and, in some cases, additional exams, required obtaining an in-person appointment, often leading to frustration.

With the new system, the process is conducted almost entirely online via the DGT's Electronic Headquarters. Applicants will only need to visit the Provincial Traffic Headquarters once: to submit their original, valid licence and collect their provisional authorisation to drive in Spain. Subsequently, the definitive licence will be sent by post to their home address.

To access this service, citizens must be registered in the Cl@ve system, possess a digital certificate, or appoint a representative through the Power of Attorney Register.

It is important to note that this digital procedure is exclusively available for countries with which Spain has signed a bilateral agreement for mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences. For countries like Algeria, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, or Morocco, among others, a prior verification of the licence by the issuing authority is required, a process that can vary in response times. For others, such as Argentina, Andorra, or the United Kingdom, the exchange is requested directly.

In addition to the online application, it is essential to have a psychophysical aptitude report issued by a Driver Recognition Centre and provide identification and proof of residence documentation, as well as demonstrate that one did not reside in Spain when the licence to be exchanged was obtained. Payment of the corresponding fee, which may vary if additional tests are required (for professional group II licences, such as trucks or buses), is also a necessary step.

Once the application is submitted, a DGT official will review it. If everything is correct, the applicant will receive an email with the date or time for their final in-person appointment. This digitalisation represents a significant step forward in simplifying the lives of thousands of foreign citizens in Spain.