Spanish Road Laws to Know Before Leasing a Car in Denia

Renting a car in Denia, a charming coastal town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is an excellent way to explore the region’s scenic beauty, picturesque beaches, and historical landmarks. However, before hitting the road, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with Spain’s driving laws to ensure a safe and legal journey. Spain has strict traffic regulations, and ignorance of the rules can lead to hefty fines or even legal trouble. Understanding these road laws will not only keep you compliant but also enhance your overall driving experience.

1. Driving License and Age Requirements

If you are planning to lease a car in Denia, you must ensure that you have the proper documentation. In Spain, the minimum legal driving age is 18, but most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some agencies may impose additional charges on drivers under 25.

For European Union (EU) residents, a valid EU driving license is sufficient. However, non-EU drivers, including those from the UK, the USA, Canada, and Australia, must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national driver’s license. Failure to present an IDP when requested by authorities may result in fines or being prohibited from driving.

2. Road Signs and Speed Limits

Spanish road signs closely resemble those in other European countries, but if you are unfamiliar with them, it is advisable to review their meanings before setting off. Road signs are usually in Spanish, but important symbols remain universal.

Speed limits vary based on the type of road:

• Urban areas: 30-50 km/h
• Non-urban roads: 90 km/h
• Highways and motorways: 120 km/h

Speeding is strictly enforced through fixed and mobile radars, and exceeding the limit by even a small margin can lead to substantial fines. In some cases, police officers issue fines on the spot, which may require immediate payment. Foreign drivers who fail to pay fines may have their rental car impounded until they do so.

3. Right-Hand Driving and Lane Discipline

Spain follows right-hand traffic rules, meaning you must drive on the right side of the road. The left lane is used exclusively for overtaking, and failure to move back to the right after overtaking can result in a fine. On highways, the right lane is for slower vehicles, while the left lane should only be used when necessary.

At roundabouts, vehicles already inside have the right of way. Drivers entering must yield until they find a safe gap. Using turn signals when exiting a roundabout is mandatory.

4. Drink-Driving and Drug Policies

Spain has stringent drink-driving laws, and the legal blood alcohol limit is lower than in many other countries:

• General drivers: 0.5 g/l in blood (0.25 mg/l in breath)
• New drivers (less than two years of experience) and professional drivers: 0.3 g/l in blood (0.15 mg/l in breath)

Driving under the influence of drugs is strictly prohibited. Police conduct random breathalyzer and drug tests, and refusing to comply results in severe penalties, including license suspension or even imprisonment.

5. Seat Belt and Child Safety Laws

Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers, including those in the back seats. Failing to wear a seatbelt can lead to fines of up to €200.

For children:

• Children under 135 cm must use an approved child restraint system.
• They must sit in the back seat unless all rear seats are occupied by other children.

Rental agencies often provide child car seats for an additional fee, but it is advisable to book in advance.

6. Mobile Phone Use While Driving

Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you use a hands-free system. Holding a phone, even when stationary at traffic lights, can result in a fine of up to €200 and the deduction of points from your driving record.

Additionally, wearing headphones or earphones while driving is illegal, as it can distract drivers and impair their ability to hear emergency sirens or traffic sounds.

7. Priority and Overtaking Rules

In Spain, vehicles coming from the right usually have priority unless otherwise indicated by road signs. At pedestrian crossings, drivers must always yield to pedestrians.

Overtaking is permitted only when it is safe and necessary. Passing on the right is illegal unless in slow-moving traffic or when a vehicle is turning left. On two-lane roads, you must ensure that there is a clear view and no oncoming traffic before attempting to overtake.

8. Parking Regulations and Restrictions

Parking rules vary by region, but general guidelines apply throughout Spain:

• Blue zones indicate paid parking areas where you must purchase a ticket from a nearby machine.
• Yellow lines indicate no parking zones where stopping is prohibited.
• White lines indicate free parking zones.

Illegally parked vehicles may be towed, and retrieving them from the impound lot can be expensive. Always check local signage before leaving your vehicle.

9. Compulsory Vehicle Equipment

By law, every vehicle in Spain, including rental cars, must carry specific equipment:

• Two warning triangles (to be placed in front and behind the vehicle in case of a breakdown)
• A reflective vest (to be worn if you exit the car on the roadside)
• A spare wheel and necessary tools for changing a tire or a puncture repair kit

Police may perform random checks to ensure these items are present in the vehicle.

10. Emergency Procedures and Roadside Assistance

In the event of an accident, call 112 for emergency assistance. If there are injuries, providing help is mandatory. Minor accidents should be reported using the European Accident Statement (Declaración Amistosa de Accidente), a standardized form used to document collisions.

Most car rental companies provide 24/7 roadside assistance, so check your rental agreement for emergency contact numbers before setting off.

Conclusion

Leasing a car in Denia is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes of Spain’s Costa Blanca, but understanding the local road laws is essential to avoid fines and ensure a smooth driving experience. From speed limits and parking regulations to drink-driving laws and vehicle equipment requirements, adhering to these rules will help you enjoy your trip safely and legally. Always read your car rental contract carefully, ensure you have all necessary documents, and stay aware of local driving customs for a hassle-free journey.