Driving Licence in Galicia for Foreigners: Complete Guide 2025

Introduction to Driving in Galicia for Foreigners

If you have decided to make Galicia your home, whether on the dramatic coastlines of the Costa da Morte, in charming fishing villages like Corcubión or Fisterra, or in cities such as Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña, understanding the Spanish driving licence system is essential. Galicia offers breathtaking driving routes through green mountains and along coastal cliffs, but it also presents unique challenges that every foreign driver should be prepared for.

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) is the national authority responsible for issuing and managing driving licences across Spain, including Galicia. The main offices in the region are located in A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, Ourense, and Lugo. It is highly recommended to book an appointment in advance through the DGT website or by calling 060.

European Union Citizens

EU citizens can drive in Spain using their national driving licence as long as it remains valid. However, if you establish habitual residence in Galicia, you must register your licence with the Central Registry of Drivers and Offenders within two years of the licence issue date or when you reach the equivalent age requirement in Spain.

The registration process is free and takes place at your local Traffic Office. You will need to provide:

• Valid National Identity Document or passport
• Padrón (municipal registration) from a Galician town hall
• Original European driving licence
• Recent colour photograph
• Declaration that you are not disqualified from driving

For a voluntary exchange of your EU licence for a Spanish one, the process is similar and allows you to renew your licence under Spanish regulations. This is particularly useful if your original licence is approaching its expiry date.

Non-EU Citizens: The Six-Month Grace Period

If you come from a country outside the European Union, you may drive in Galicia using your International Driving Permit or your national licence for a maximum of six months from your arrival in Spain. This period is counted from the date you obtain residency or from your date of entry if you are a tourist.

After these six months, you must obtain a Spanish driving licence. Depending on your country of origin, there are three possible routes:

1. Direct exchange: Countries such as Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Morocco, Peru, Dominican Republic, Uruguay, and Venezuela have reciprocal exchange agreements with Spain.
2. Theory and practical test: For countries without an agreement, you must pass both tests at the DGT.
3. Theory test only: Some countries require only the theoretical exam in Spanish about traffic regulations.

Theory tests can be taken in Spanish, Galician, English, or French at DGT offices in Galicia, which is a significant advantage for foreign residents.

United Kingdom Post-Brexit: Current Situation

Following Brexit, British citizens residing in Galicia must exchange their UK driving licence for a Spanish one. The agreement between the UK and Spain allows for exchange without additional testing. The deadline for this exchange is six months from establishing residency.

Required documents for UK licence exchange:

• Valid UK driving licence
• Identity document or passport
• Certificado de empadronamiento
• UK certificate of entitlement to drive (D741 or equivalent)
• Colour photograph
• Exchange fee (approximately 26.20 €)

Buying a Car in Galicia

Once your licence is sorted, the next step is acquiring a vehicle. Buying a car in Galicia follows the same process as in the rest of Spain. You can choose between a new or second-hand vehicle. Dealerships in towns like Cee and Camariñas offer vehicles suited to Galician road conditions.

The purchase process includes:

• Sale contract: Signed document between buyer and seller
• Transfer at Traffic Office: Fee of approximately 55 € for cars
• Property Transfer Tax (ITP): Variable, 8% in Galicia for second-hand vehicles
• Mandatory insurance: Minimum third-party liability
• Valid ITV: If the vehicle is over 4 years old

ITV (Vehicle Inspection) in Galicia

The Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV) is mandatory and must be carried out at authorised stations. Galicia has ITV stations in all major cities and comarcas. The frequency depends on the vehicle's age:

The cost of an ITV in Galicia ranges from 35 € to 55 € depending on the type of vehicle. Driving without a valid ITV can result in fines of up to 500 € and vehicle impoundment.

Mandatory Car Insurance

In Spain, third-party liability insurance is compulsory for all vehicles. In Galicia, the most popular insurance companies include Mapfre, Adeslas, Mutua Madrileña, Pelayo, and Verti. Prices vary by driver profile, but as a reference:

• Basic third-party: 300-500 €/year
• Extended third-party: 450-750 €/year
• Comprehensive: 600-1,200 €/year

Tip: If you have recently arrived in Galicia and have no claims history in Spain, ask about policies for foreign drivers. Some insurers like Línea Directa or Qualitas Auto specialise in this market and accept no-claims records from other countries.

Fuel Prices in Galicia

Fuel prices in Galicia are generally in line with the national average, though service stations in rural areas like the Costa da Morte or Muxía may be slightly more expensive due to logistical costs. As of 2025, approximate prices are:

Driving on Galician Mountain Roads

Galician roads present unique characteristics that every driver should be aware of, especially in the Costa da Morte region and the mountainous interior. County roads are often narrow, with tight bends and limited signage in some areas. During winter, fog and rain are frequent and can significantly reduce visibility.

Specific tips for driving in Galicia:

• Reduce speed on secondary roads, especially between Corcubión and Fisterra
• Exercise extra caution in fog on the inland mountain ranges (Ourense, Lugo)
• Check tyre condition before travelling along the Costa da Morte
• Carry snow chains in winter if you plan to visit mountain areas
• Be patient with agricultural vehicles on country roads

DGT Offices in Galicia

For any driving licence-related procedures, you can visit the following DGT offices:

• A Coruña: Av. de Fisterra, 34 - Polígono de Vioño, Arteixo
• Santiago de Compostela: Rúa do Restollal, 29, Boisaca
• Pontevedra: Av. de Marin, 4, Marín
• Ourense: Rúa de Ourense, 6, San Cibrao das Viñas
• Lugo: Av. de Madrid, 54

Remember to request an appointment in advance through the DGT website (www.dgt.es) or by calling 060. Walk-in visits are not accepted at most offices.

Conclusion

Obtaining your driving licence in Galicia as a foreigner is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Whether you are an EU citizen, British, or from any other country, the available options allow you to be legally behind the wheel in no time. With your licence in order, you can enjoy the freedom of Galicia's roads, from the cliffs of Fisterra to the green valleys of the interior. Always keep your insurance up to date and respect speed limits, especially on the winding roads of the Costa da Morte.