Cars & Transportation Spain

Spain offers a variety of public transportation options, making travel across the country convenient and accessible for locals and tourists alike.

```html

 

Trains

Spain is known for its developed rail transport network. The main operator is Renfe, which operates both high-speed (AVE) and regular trains:

- High-speed AVE trains: These trains connect major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Malaga. They offer fast and comfortable travel with plenty of onboard amenities.

- Regional and suburban trains: Include Cercanías networks which provide transportation within urban agglomerations and suburbs. For example, Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have well-developed suburban train systems.

 

Buses

Bus transportation covers all regions of Spain and is a convenient and economical way to travel:

- Intercity buses: Major operators such as Alsa and Avanza offer regular routes between large cities and tourist destinations. Buses are equipped with air conditioning, toilets, and free Wi-Fi.

- City buses: In major cities, there are extensive networks of city buses providing access to various districts and suburbs. For instance, EMT operates buses in Madrid, and TMB in Barcelona.

 

Metro and Trams

Metro rail transport is present in major cities:

- Metro: Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao have well-developed metro systems that cover major areas of the cities and provide quick and convenient mobility.

- Trams: Exist in cities like Valencia, Seville, Malaga, and Alicante. Trams are an excellent way to move around central and historical areas.

 

Ferries

Ferry services provide connections between mainland Spain and islands like the Balearic and Canary Islands, as well as between various coastal cities. This is a popular way to travel for those who want to enjoy sea views.

 

Air Travel

Air travel in Spain plays an important role in the country's transport infrastructure, connecting numerous cities and regions both domestically and internationally.

Spain has an extensive network of airports, the largest of which are:

- Madrid-Barajas: The main airport of the capital and the largest airport in Spain, serving as a key hub for international and domestic flights.

```

- Barcelona-El Prat: The country's second-largest airport, serving a large number of international and domestic flights, especially to Europe.

- Palma de Mallorca Airport: The main airport for the Balearic Islands, particularly popular during the summer months.

- Malaga-Costa del Sol: An important airport for Andalusia and a popular destination for tourists on the southern coast of Spain.

Spain has both national and international airlines operating:

- Iberia: The national airline of Spain, based in Madrid. Iberia operates flights both domestically and to other countries in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

- Vueling: Spain's largest low-cost carrier with bases in Barcelona and other major cities. Vueling offers affordable flights to many European destinations.

- Air Europa: A Spanish airline operating domestic and international flights, mainly through hubs in Madrid and Palma de Mallorca.

- Ryanair and EasyJet: These international low-cost carriers offer numerous flights from Spain to other European countries, often at very competitive prices.

Spain has a high frequency of flights between the country's main cities, making air travel a convenient and fast way to move around. Regular flights connect Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and other major cities. There are also frequent flights to the islands (Balearic and Canary).

Aviation plays a key role in supporting tourism in Spain. Tourists from all over the world arrive in Spain through international airports, contributing to the development of hotel businesses, restaurants, and other services. The summer months are especially busy as Spain is a popular destination for beach holidays and cultural tourism.

Airfare prices in Spain vary depending on the season, destination, and airline. Low-cost carriers such as Vueling, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer affordable options for budget travelers. Booking tickets in advance can help save money and ensure seat availability on popular flights.

Spain offers a wide range of tickets and passes for public transportation, making it easy and affordable to travel around cities and regions.

 

Types of Tickets and Passes

1. Single Tickets and Multi-use Cards:

   - Single Tickets: Suitable for one-time trips. In most cities, they can be purchased from machines at metro stations, tram stops, and bus stations. The cost varies depending on the city, for example, in Barcelona a ticket costs about 2.55 euros.

   - Multi-use Cards: For example, in Barcelona, the T-Casual (10 trips) and T-Usual (unlimited for a month) cards are popular. These cards can be purchased at machines and recharged as needed. T-Casual costs about 12.15 euros for one zone.

 

2. Tourist Cards:

   - Hola BCN!: The card provides unlimited rides on metro, buses, trams, and suburban trains. Available for 2, 3, 4, and 5 days. Prices start at 17.50 euros for two days.

   - Barcelona Card: Includes not only public transportation rides but also discounts for visiting tourist attractions. Prices start at 53 euros for three days.

 

3. Electronic Cards and Mobile Apps:

   - T-Mobilitat: A new contactless card for public transport in Barcelona. Users can manage balances and purchase passes through a mobile app. The card supports T-Casual, T-Usual tickets, and other passes.

 

How to Purchase Tickets

1. Station Machines:

   - Tickets can be purchased from machines at metro stations, tram stops, and bus stations. Machines accept cash, bank cards, and sometimes mobile payments.

 

2. Online:

   - Many public transport operators offer the option to purchase tickets online through their official websites and mobile apps. This is convenient as it helps to avoid queues and have a ticket in advance.

 

3. Mobile Apps:

   - For example, in Barcelona, you can use the T-Mobilitat app to manage your trips. The app allows you to check balance, recharge the card, and plan routes.

 

Regional Differences

 

- In many cities in Spain, such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, a single bus ticket can be purchased from the driver. However, in some cities, this option may be limited.

- On intercity and long-distance buses, tickets can also be purchased from the driver, though it is generally recommended to buy tickets in advance through online systems or ticket offices at bus stations.

- It is recommended to have small bills and coins with you, as bus drivers may not always provide change for large bills.

- In some cities, contactless payment systems are being implemented, and purchasing tickets from the driver may be limited or not recommended.

- Different cities and regions in Spain have their own public transport systems and rules. For example, Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have their own features for purchasing and using tickets. It is important to familiarize yourself with the local rules and fares in advance.

 

Using public transport in Spain requires an understanding of local features and available options, which will make traveling around the country convenient and enjoyable.

Spain offers a wide range of taxis and car-sharing services, making travel around the country convenient and accessible for locals and tourists.

 

Taxis

Traditional taxis:

   - In major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, traditional taxis are a popular mode of transportation. They are easily recognizable: in Madrid, they are white cars with a red stripe, in Barcelona — black with yellow doors.

   - Taxis can be hailed through special apps, such as Free Now (formerly known as MyTaxi), which combines traditional taxis and offers modern features like real-time tracking and contactless payment.

   - Taxi fares are regulated by municipalities and depend on the time of day and distance. In Barcelona and Madrid, there are also fixed rates for trips from the airport to the city center.

 

Taxi apps:

   - Free Now: Allows for booking traditional taxis and private cars. The app supports several payment options, including payment through the app.

   - PideTaxi: Supported by the Spanish Taxi Federation and provides access to over 18,000 taxis nationwide. This is a reliable option for those who prefer to support local services.

 

Car-sharing services

Uber:

   - Available in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. Uber offers several types of vehicles, including standard UberX, UberBLACK (luxury cars), and UberVAN (minivans).

   - It is important to note that Uber may have dynamic pricing, which means increased fares during periods of high demand.

 

Cabify:

   - The Spanish alternative to Uber, operating in most major cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. Cabify offers several classes of vehicles, including economy and luxury options.

   - Cabify is known for its focus on safety and sustainability, offering electric vehicles and offsetting CO₂ emissions from its rides.

 

Bolt:

   - An Estonian service available in several Spanish cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Bolt offers competitive rates and a convenient app for booking rides.

   - Bolt also provides electric scooter rentals, making it convenient for short trips around the city.

 

Bike and Electric Scooter Rentals

- In major cities like Barcelona and Madrid, bike and electric scooter rental services are available. These services are offered through apps like Lime and Bird for scooters, and Bicing for bike rentals in Barcelona.

- These modes of transport are popular for short trips and allow quick and convenient movement around the city, avoiding traffic and parking issues.

Yes, living in Spain without owning a car is quite possible and even convenient thanks to the well-developed public transport system and the availability of various car-sharing services.

Advantages of living without a car

- Cost savings: A car requires significant expenses for maintenance, insurance, and fuel. Using public transport and car-sharing can significantly reduce these costs.

- Sustainability: Public transport and car-sharing services with electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions and improving the environmental situation in cities.

Convenience and accessibility: In major cities of Spain, public transport and car-sharing services provide a high degree of mobility and make it easy to get around without the need to own a car. Additionally, the developed infrastructure makes using these services very convenient.

Obtaining a local driver's license in Spain depends on your citizenship and residency status. 

 

For EU/EEA citizens

 

1. Using an existing license:

   - Citizens of EU/EEA countries can use their national driver's licenses in Spain if they meet the minimum driving age in the country (18 years for cars and motorcycles, 15 years for mopeds).

   - If a driver's license expires in Spain, it must be exchanged for a Spanish driver's license.

 

2. License exchange:

   - The exchange process can be done at the local DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) office. Required documents include: completed application, passport, valid driver's license, proof of residence, medical certificate, and two photographs.

   - If a license expires, it will need to be renewed and will become Spanish, requiring renewal every 10 years.

 

For citizens of countries with an exchange agreement

 

1. List of countries with agreements:

   - Spain has agreements with more than 20 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland. Citizens of these countries can exchange their driver's licenses without taking exams.

   - The same documents as for EU/EEA citizens must be prepared, and an official translation of the license for citizens of Japan and South Korea must also be provided.

 

2. Exchange process:

   - The exchange can be done online via the DGT website or in person at one of their offices. The online application requires uploading all documents in PDF format and subsequently scheduling an appointment at the DGT office to submit the original license and receive a temporary Spanish license.

 

For citizens of countries without an agreement

 

1. Requirement to take exams:

   - If you are from a country that does not have an agreement with Spain, you can use your national license for the first six months of residency. After this period, you will need to take theory and practical exams in Spain.

   - Exams are typically conducted in Spanish, but in some cities, like Madrid and Barcelona, there may be options available in English.

 

2. Required documents:

   - To take the exams, you need to register at a driving school, which will help prepare for the tests. Documents include: application, passport, residence permit, proof of residence, medical certificate, and two photographs.

 

General steps for all categories

 

1. Medical certificate:

   - A medical examination at an authorized center is required to confirm psychophysical fitness for driving.

 

2. Submission of application and payment:

   - The application is submitted via the DGT website or in person at their office. A payment of the fee is also required to process your request.

Owning and driving a personal car in Spain for foreigners has its features that must be considered to comply with local laws and ensure comfortable movement.

 

Driving with a foreign driver's license

 

1. EU/EEA citizens:

   - Citizens of European Union and European Economic Area countries can use their national driver's licenses in Spain. However, if the license expires, it must be replaced with a Spanish one.

   - During the first two years of residence, you can use your country's license, but it is recommended to register in the Spanish driver's license system to simplify the exchange process in the future.

 

2. Citizens from countries with an exchange agreement:

   - Foreigners from countries that have agreements with Spain (for example, Argentina, Japan, South Korea) can exchange their driver's licenses for Spanish ones without the need to take exams. The exchange process includes providing documents such as a medical certificate, passport, valid driver's license, and proof of residence.

 

3. Citizens from countries without an agreement:

   - For citizens of countries that do not have agreements with Spain (for example, the USA, Canada), the use of a national driver's license is possible during the first six months of residence. After this period, it is necessary to pass theoretical and practical exams to obtain a Spanish driver's license.

 

Purchase and Registration of a Car

 

1. Purchasing a car:

   - Foreigners can buy a new or used car through dealerships or private sales. When buying through a dealer, the paperwork process is usually easier, as the dealer assists with the car registration.

   - When buying a used car from a private individual, it is important to check all the documents (Permiso de Circulación, ITV certificate, tax payment receipts) and conduct a technical inspection of the car.

- Online car purchasing is becoming increasingly popular. Platforms like Clicars and Webycar offer a wide selection of used cars and assist with document processing and car inspection.

 

2. Registering a car:

   - The new owner must register the car within 30 days of purchase. This requires paying the property transfer tax and local road tax, as well as submitting documents to the local DGT office.

Documents for registration: NRC code from the bank, completed Model 576 form for tax calculation, tax payment receipts, identification (NIE, passport, or residence permit), and proof of registration fee payment.

 

 

Insurance and Mandatory Documents

 

1. Insurance:

   - In Spain, having civil liability insurance is mandatory, which covers damage caused to third parties. Additionally, you can obtain comprehensive insurance, which covers damage to the car itself and the driver. Insurance in Spain is linked to the car, not the driver. The car owner can include several drivers in the policy.

 

2. Mandatory documents and equipment:

   - The driver must always have their driver's license, car registration documents, ITV certificate, insurance, and insurance premium payment receipt. The car must have a reflective vest, two warning triangles, a spare tire, and a kit for its replacement, as well as spare bulbs.

 

Traffic Rules and Fines

 

Speed Limits:

   - Spain has strict speed limits: 120 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on main roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas. Violating these limits can lead to significant fines and loss of points on the driver's license.

 

Fines and Penalty Points System:

 - Spain operates a penalty points system where drivers lose points for traffic violations. Once all points are lost, the driver's license is revoked, and they must retake exams to restore it.

 

Parking Issues

Parking in Spain can be challenging, especially in large cities and tourist areas.

 

Types of Parking

Street Parking:

 - Blue Zones (Zona Azul): In these zones, parking is paid for via parking meters, and the parking time is limited (usually up to 2 hours). Rates vary by city, but on average range from 1-2 euros per hour. In Barcelona and Madrid, these zones are particularly common.

 - Green Zones (Zona Verde): These zones are primarily for residents, but also allow parking for non-residents at higher rates and with time restrictions. In Madrid, for example, parking for non-residents can cost 3-4 euros per hour.

 

Underground and Multi-story Parking:

 - In large cities, multi-story and underground parking provide longer and safer parking options. The rates at such parking facilities are usually higher than street parking and can range from 2 to 5 euros per hour depending on the location and city.

 

Parking in Shopping Centers and Supermarkets:

 - Many shopping centers and supermarkets offer free parking for their customers for a limited time (e.g., the first 2-3 hours). In central areas, this can be a convenient option for short-term parking.

 

Problems and Challenges

 

1. Lack of Spaces:

 - In the center of large cities, there is often a shortage of parking spaces. Finding a free spot during peak hours can be particularly difficult.

 

2. High Rates:

 - Parking costs in popular tourist areas and central city districts can be quite high, requiring planning and budgeting.

 

3. Parking Restrictions:

 - Some areas have time or day of the week parking restrictions. This is especially relevant in historic city centers, where access may be limited to reduce traffic and protect cultural heritage.

 

Advice and Recommendations

 

Using Mobile Apps:

   - Apps like ElParking and Telpark help find available parking spaces, pay for parking, and avoid fines. They also provide information on rates and restrictions.

 

Parking Reservation:

   - In large cities and at train stations, you can reserve a parking spot in advance through online services like Parclick. This is especially useful for long-term parking and during periods of high tourist demand.

Spain has a strict system of fines and penalties for traffic violations aimed at improving road safety. Here are the main types of violations and their respective fines and penalties:

 

Speeding

- Minor violations: Speeding by 1-20 km/h on urban roads is fined between 100 and 300 euros without point deduction.

- Medium violations: Speeding by 21-50 km/h may result in a fine of 400 to 600 euros and a deduction of 4-6 points from the driver's license.

- Serious violations: Speeding by more than 50 km/h results in a fine of 600 euros and a deduction of 6 points.

 

Using a Mobile Phone

- Using a mobile phone while driving is fined 200 euros and 6 points are deducted if the device is held by the driver.

 

Violation of Overtaking Rules

- Violating overtaking rules on secondary roads, such as speeding while overtaking, is fined up to 500 euros and 3 points are deducted.

 

Violation of Seatbelt and Child Seat Regulations

- Failure to comply with seatbelt, child seat, and helmet regulations results in a fine of 200 euros and a deduction of 4 points.

 

Parking and Stopping

- Parking violations, especially on bike lanes, are fined up to 200 euros.

 

Other Violations

- Using or even possessing radar detectors in the car is a serious violation and is fined 500 euros and 3 points are deducted. This rule applies to both locals and foreigners.

- Throwing objects onto the road that may cause accidents entails a fine of 500 euros and the deduction of 6 points.

 

Low Emission Zones

- Entering low emission zones without permission is punishable by a fine of 200 euros.

 

Points Penalty System

- Spain operates a points penalty system where drivers start with 12 points (beginners start with 8). Violations lead to the deduction of points, and if all points are lost, the driving license is revoked. To restore the license, one must retake exams and complete road safety courses.

 

Spain has strict traffic laws, and penalties for violations apply to both locals and foreigners. However, there are certain nuances foreign drivers should be aware of.

- Foreign drivers stopped for traffic violations are often asked to pay the fine on the spot. This is due to the fact that tourists may not have a permanent address in Spain, making it challenging to collect the fine later.

- In case of refusal to pay on the spot, the vehicle may be impounded until the fine is paid.

- For foreigners who are residents of Spain and hold a Spanish driving license, the same points penalty system applies as for Spanish citizens. Losing all points leads to license revocation.

- Foreigners driving with a national license may be entered into the points penalty system if they violate traffic rules in Spain, especially if they are residents or spend a considerable amount of time in Spain.

 

Spain participates in an information exchange system for traffic violations with other EU countries. This means that fines for violations committed in Spain can be collected in the violator’s country of residence.

The process of vehicle inspection and registration in Spain has its own characteristics, which are important to know for successful and legal vehicle ownership in the country.

 

Technical Inspection (ITV)

Vehicle technical inspection is a mandatory procedure conducted to ensure that a car meets safety standards and environmental regulations.

 

1. Frequency of technical inspection:

   - New vehicles: The first inspection is conducted 4 years after registration. Afterwards, inspections are every 2 years until the car reaches 10 years old.

   - Vehicles older than 10 years: Annual inspection.

   - Motorcycles and ATVs: The first inspection after 4 years, then every 2 years.

   - Buses and trucks: The first inspection after 5 years, then every 6 months.

 

2. Documents required for inspection:

   - Permiso de Circulación (vehicle registration document).

   - Ficha Técnica (vehicle technical certificate).

   - Insurance policy (valid vehicle insurance policy).

   - Identity document (passport, NIE or TIE).

   - Payment for the inspection fee, which ranges from 30 to 110 euros depending on the type of vehicle.

 

3. Inspection process:

   - The procedure includes checking the operation of headlights, wipers, turn signals, brakes, exhaust emissions, and other vehicle systems.

   - After successfully passing the inspection, an ITV sticker is issued, which must be attached to the windshield of the vehicle.

 

Vehicle Registration

The registration of a vehicle in Spain is mandatory for both new vehicles and those brought from abroad.

 

1. Required documents for registration:

   - Permiso de Circulación.

   - NIE or TIE (foreign identification number).

   - Proof of payment of all taxes, including the registration tax (Impuesto de Matriculación) and local road tax.

   - Certificate of Conformity (Certificado de Conformidad) issued by the manufacturer.

   - Receipt of VAT payment (for vehicles imported from EU countries).

   - Documents proving the purchase of the vehicle.

 

2. Registration stages:

   - Gathering all necessary documents: including the vehicle's technical certificate and insurance confirmation.

   - Payment of fees: registration fees vary depending on the type of vehicle, its age, and CO2 emission level.

   - Visiting the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) to submit a registration application.

   - Obtaining a registration number and license plates.

The use and registration of foreign cars in Spain have their own characteristics that must be considered to comply with local laws and ensure the legality of vehicle operation.

 

Using foreign cars

 

1. Short-term use:

   - Foreign cars can be used in Spain for up to 6 months in a calendar year without mandatory registration, if the owner is not a resident. It is important that the car remains registered and insured in the country of origin.

   

2. Transition to residency:

   - If you become a resident of Spain, the car must be registered within 30 days of obtaining resident status. This requirement applies to citizens of all countries, including EU countries.

 

Registering a foreign car

 

1. Required documents:

   - The vehicle's registration document from the country of origin.

   - European Certificate of Conformity (COC).

   - Document confirming the purchase of the vehicle (invoice or sales contract).

   - Document for payment of the road tax (IVTM) and registration tax.

   - Passport or other identification document, and proof of address in Spain (NIE or TIE).

   - Document of successful technical inspection in Spain (ITV).

 

2. Registration process:

   - Technical inspection: The car must undergo a technical inspection in Spain, even if it has already passed a similar test in another country. This includes checking safety and environmental standards.

   - Tax payments: Pay the registration tax and road tax at the appropriate authorities (tax office and municipality). The tax amount depends on the car's value and CO2 emission level.

   - Registration with the DGT: Submit all collected documents at the local Directorate General of Traffic office and pay the registration fee (approximately 99.77 euros).

 

3. Temporary registration:

 - If you are unable to complete the registration within 30 days, you can apply for temporary registration plates (green plates), which allow the vehicle to be used on roads for two months with the possibility of extension.

 

Specifics for citizens of non-EU countries

 

- Foreign vehicles imported from non-EU countries are subject to additional customs procedures and VAT payment. It's important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and processes in advance to avoid fines and delays.

Spain is actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles to support the transition to environmentally friendly transport. 

Charging stations

Total number of charging stations:

 - By the end of 2023, there were about 30,345 public charging stations in Spain. To meet the European Union's goals for charging station infrastructure by 2030, Spain will need to increase that number to 183,900.

 - Increasing the number of charging stations is necessary to support the projected growth in the number of electric vehicles to 2.7-3.6 million by 2030.

 

Types of charging stations:

 - Charging stations are divided into slow, fast, and ultra-fast. Currently, most charging stations in Spain are slow and fast, but the number of ultra-fast stations is also growing, especially along major highways and in large cities.

 

Service centers and support

 Service centers: As the number of electric vehicles increases, so does the number of service centers specializing in the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles. Major manufacturers such as Tesla, Nissan, and Renault are actively expanding their network of service centers in Spain.