Driving Licences
Renewing a Spanish driving licence
How often a Spanish driving licence needs renewing, and the process to do it.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-15The medical test itself is usually quick; the renewed card is typically issued within a few weeks of application.
This guide is not yet verified by Tuchati's editorial review — treat it as a helpful starting point, not a final legal answer.
Overview
Spanish driving licences have a limited validity period, tied to your age, and need periodic renewal, including a fresh medical/psychological assessment each time.
Requirements
- Validity periods generally run 10 years for most drivers under 65, reducing to 5 years from age 65, though the exact bands can vary by licence category
- A current medical/psychological aptitude certificate is required for every renewal
Step-by-step process
- Check your licence's expiry date, printed on the card itself
- Book and complete a medical/psychological aptitude test at an authorised centre close to your renewal date
- Submit your renewal application, either through the authorised medical centre (many can process it directly) or via the DGT's electronic office
- Pay the renewal fee
- Receive your renewed licence
Required documents
- Current driving licence
- Medical/psychological aptitude certificate
- Passport-style photo
Common mistakes
- Letting the licence fully expire before starting renewal, which can mean you're not legally permitted to drive in the meantime
- Not realising the renewal interval shortens as you get older — assuming your last renewal period still applies
Practical tips
- Many authorised medical centres can submit your renewal application directly after your test, saving you a separate DGT visit
- Start the renewal process a few weeks before expiry to avoid any gap in valid driving status
How Tuchati can help
If you're not sure when your licence is due for renewal or want help booking the medical test, Tuchati can guide you through it.