The following ages apply for driving in Spain:

• Mopeds and vehicles for people with reduced mobility - 15 yrs
• Motorbikes maximum power 11 KW and 125cc - 16 yrs
• Motorbikes, with at least two years experience driving motorbikes of maximum power 11 KW and 125cc - 18 yrs
• Vehicles with a maximum weight of 3.500 Kg and with a maximum of 9 seats, including the driver's - 18 years
• Vehicles with weight over 3.500 Kg - 21 years
• Vehicles for the transport of passengers - 21 years

Many countries have reciprocal agreements with Spain, meaning you can drive using your existing driving licence from your home country.  If you have a valid EEC driving licence then you can drive using this in Spain, but you must carry it with you when you are driving.

Changing your EEC driving licence for a Spanish licence
Some people prefer to change their EEC licence for a Spanish driving licence, although there is no legal requirement to do this and there are no real advantages.

If you wish to do this you will have to apply at the Traffic Department (Jefatura de Tráfico) at Alicante with the following:

• A completed application form available from the Traffic Department.
• Proof of residence (residencia or NIE number).  Take photocopies.
• Your current driving licence and a photocopy.
• Your vehicle registration document.
• Two passport photographs.
• The fee (approximately 20-25 euros).

A Spanish driving licence should be renewed at regular intervals.  A private car or bike licence is valid for:

• ten years when the holder is under 45 years of age
• five years between 45 and 70
• two years from 70