Spain expat fury as new post-Brexit driving rules remain in place with potential for fines | Travel News | Travel
In May 2022, new post-Brexit rules came into force in Spain, meaning British expats are now unable to drive in the country on their British licence. Though both countries had been in talks regarding this rule, since the change any expats who have been resident for more than six months and have not exchanged their UK licence for a Spanish one will no longer be able to drive.
According to Spanish News Today, motorists driving on expired licences will be fined €200, and in the event that the driver has had his licence revoked, the penalty goes up to €500.
Following an outcry from Britons, both Governments said they would resume talks to negotiate a deal where expats can change licences without needing to take a Spanish practical driving test.
However, so far, nothing further has emerged from the talks.
READ MORE: Cruising: Jane McDonald’s home comfort she can’t travel without
It states: “The Government should seek to negotiate with the Spanish Government for mutual recognition of UK and Spanish driving licences, so UK expats in Spain are able to quickly and easily exchange their UK drivers licences for Spanish ones.”
At the time of writing, it has garnered 4,645 signatures.
However, on July 9, it was reported there had been “radio silence from Spanish authorities” on the matter.
