Traffic fines and penalties

Overview

Spanish traffic offences are classified into three severity levels, each with different fine amounts and, for the more serious ones, an automatic points deduction alongside the fine.

Requirements

• Applies to any driver committing a traffic offence in Spain, regardless of nationality

Step-by-step process

• Leve (minor) offences: fines up to €100, generally without a points deduction
• Grave (serious) offences: fines around €200, sometimes with a points deduction depending on the specific infraction
• Muy grave (very serious) offences: fines around €500, always with a points deduction
• If you receive a fine, review the notification for the specific offence, amount, and payment/appeal deadlines

Required documents

• The fine notification itself, which contains the reference number needed for payment or appeal

Common mistakes

• Assuming every fine reduces your points — only grave and muy grave offences do, not leve ones
• Missing the response window, losing the option for either the early-payment discount or a formal appeal

Practical tips

• See 'Paying traffic fines' for the early-payment discount available on leve and grave fines
• If you believe a fine was issued incorrectly, formal appeals (alegaciones) must be filed within 20 calendar days of notification — but filing one forfeits the early-payment discount if your appeal is unsuccessful

How Tuchati can help

If you've received a fine and aren't sure whether to pay or appeal, Tuchati can help you understand your options.