TRAFFIC RULES IN SPAIN

Driving in Spain requires adherence to specific traffic regulations to ensure safety and compliance. Here are key rules to be aware of:

Driving wide and overtaking

Right-Hand Driving: Vehicles drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
Overtaking Restrictions: Overtaking is prohibited in certain conditions, such as near pedestrian crossings or on curves with limited visibility.

Speed limits

Motorways (Autopistas and Autovías): The general speed limit is 120 km/h for cars and motorbikes.
Rural Roads: The limit is 90 km/h for cars, buses, and motorbikes.
Urban Areas: Speed limits vary:

• 50 km/h on roads with two lanes per direction.
• 30 km/h on roads with one lane per direction.
• 20 km/h on roads shared with pedestrians.

Note: Speed limits may change based on road conditions or specific signage.

Seat Belts and child restraints

Seat Belts: Mandatory for all occupants.
Child Restraints: Children under 135 cm must use appropriate child seats.

Alcohol and drug regulations

Blood Alcohol Limit: The maximum permitted level is 0.5 g/l for experienced drivers and 0.3 g/l for novice drivers (less than two years of experience) and professional drivers.
Zero Tolerance for Drugs: Driving under the influence of drugs is strictly prohibited.

Mobile phones

Using a mobile phone without a hands-free system while driving is illegal and subject to fines.

Documentation

Drivers must carry a valid driving licence, vehicle registration, and insurance documents at all times.

Traffic signs

Familiarise yourself with Spanish road signs, which conform to European standards but may have unique local variations.