DGT Streamlines Last Minute Rush To Exchange UK Driving Licences
The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has updated and streamlined the process of exchanging UK driving licenses for Spanish ones.
The move comes in response to much frustration at the DGT´s processing and appointment system that has left many UK residents in Spain facing the prospect of not having a valid driving licence once the transition period comes to an end on 31st December.
In an attempt to clear the backlog the DGT has put a new system in place which went live on their website yesterday.
The two-step process requires the application to be made to the DGT before 30th December which can be done online ( the digital certificate or CLAVE is required) or by calling 060 with the applicant´s driver and residence details.
In some provinces it may also be possible to do so by downloading the form and taking it to the local DGT office.
Legal representatives and gestores can also act on behalf of applicants.
The “cita previa” appointment date and time is then confirmed at the DGT office that had been requested within 3 working days.
In the event that the applicant doesnt receive their appointment confirmation within 3 days they may continue their application by requesting an online appointment by clicking the DGT office followed by ” Trámites de oficina” option in the drop down menu.
As long as the application has been submitted before 30th December, and the UK authorities have verified the applicants licence by then exchange applications can still be made after 1st January 2021 for a period of up to 6 months.
In addition irrespective of whether a UK licence has been verified for exchange by the end of the year, residents will still be able to drive in Spain using their UK licence for up to 6 months from 1st January 2021 although this may change as the rules on exchange and recognition of UK licences are still subject to negotiation between the two governments.
For more information and a link to the online application form visit: DGT TRAFFIC WEBSITE INFORMATION IN ENGLISH AND APPOINTMENTS .
There are three DGT offices in the Madrid region being Artura Soria, Alcalá de Henares and Alcorcón.
