Spanish Driver’s License: Photo Requirements and Application Process

What is a Spanish Driver’s License?

The Spanish driver’s license is the official document that authorizes a person to drive vehicles in Spain and other European Union countries. Its validity varies by category: 10 years for cars (Class B) and different periods for other categories.

Photo Requirements for Driver’s License

Mandatory Technical Specifications

• Size: 35 × 45 mm
• Face Height: 32–36 mm (chin to crown)
• Background: Light and uniform (white or light grey)
• Quality: High resolution, sharp, colour, no digital retouching
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Composition Requirements

• Position: Frontal, looking directly at the camera
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and visible
• Lighting: Even, without strong shadows or reflections
• Focus: Sharp throughout the image, especially on the face

Clothing and Accessories Guidelines

• Glasses: Allowed if they don’t produce reflections and eyes are clearly visible
• Head Coverings: Only for religious or medical reasons, with face visible
• Jewelry: Permitted if it doesn’t interfere with facial identification
• Clothing: Avoid colors very similar to the background

Driver’s License Application Process

First Issuance (Class B - Cars)

Prerequisites:

• Minimum age: 18 years
• Legal residence in Spain
• Psychophysical aptitude certified by authorized medical center

Required Documents:

• DNI or NIE original and valid
• Photograph meeting specified requirements
• Medical certificate of psychophysical aptitude
• Payment receipt for fees

Mandatory Exams

Theory Exam:

• 30 multiple-choice questions
• Maximum 3 errors allowed
• Topics: Regulations, signage, road safety, basic mechanics

Practical Exam:

• Duration: Approximately 25 minutes
• Maneuvers: Parking, merging, urban/interurban driving
• Assessment: Driving technique and compliance with rules

Where to Process

• Provincial Traffic Headquarters
• Local Traffic Offices
• Authorized driving schools (for document management)
• Medical recognition centers authorized by DGT

Fees and Costs (2024)

• Theory exam fee: €94.05
• Practical exam fee: €94.05
• License issuance: €20.60
• Medical examination: €40-60 (varies by center)

Processing Time

• License issuance: 7-15 working days after passing exams
• Provisional license: Issued immediately after passing
• Mail delivery: Included in normal process

Driver’s License Renewal

When to Renew

• Class B (cars): Every 10 years until age 65, then every 5 years
• Professional: Shorter periods depending on category
• Up to 6 months in advance of expiration date

Documents for Renewal

• Previous license (original)
• DNI or NIE valid
• Updated photograph
• Medical certificate of psychophysical aptitude
• Payment receipt for fee

Common Photo Rejection Reasons

1. Incorrect dimensions or face outside scale
2. Inappropriate background (colored or with elements)
3. Lack of sharpness or low-quality image
4. Reflections on glasses preventing eye visibility
5. Inappropriate expression (wide smile, closed eyes)
6. Poor lighting with pronounced shadows
7. Old photo not reflecting current appearance

Special Cases

International Driving Permit

• Valid for 1 year from issuance
• Requires valid Spanish license
• Additional documentation required

Foreign License Exchange

• Countries with agreement: Direct exchange without exams
• Countries without agreement: Theory and practical exams required
• Specific documentation depending on country of origin

Practical Tips

• Use a trusted driving school for preparation and management
• Take photo at professional studio specialized in official documents
• Schedule medical examination in advance
• Study the official DGT manual for theory exam
• Practice sufficient hours before practical exam

Additional Information

For specific queries about driving licenses, contact DGT through their official website, call 060, or visit the nearest Traffic Headquarters.