A practical guide to road rules, speed limits, parking regulations, and low-emission zones for drivers in southern Spain.

Driving in Andalucía is the most efficient way to see the region, particularly if you plan to visit the white villages (pueblos blancos) or national parks. While the road network is excellent, Spanish traffic laws are strictly enforced with heavy fines for minor infractions. You must drive on the right-hand side of the road and always carry your driving licence, passport, and vehicle documentation.

Quick Answer: Essential Facts

• Drive on the right: Overtake on the left.
• Speed Limits: 120km/h on motorways, 90km/h on secondary roads, and 20–30km/h in urban areas.
• Tolls: Most motorways (Autovías) are free. The AP-7 coastal route has sections with tolls.
• ZBE Zones: Low-emission zones are now active in cities with over 50,000 residents.
• Roundabouts: Stay in the outer lane unless overtaking; you must exit from the outer lane.
• Documentation: Carry your driving licence, passport, and rental agreement at all times.

Speed Limits and Enforcement

Spain uses a mix of fixed cameras, mobile units, and "tramo" (average speed) cameras. Fines are issued for exceeding the limit by even 1km/h.

• Motorways (Autopistas/Autovías): 120km/h.
• Standard open roads: 90km/h.
• Urban areas (single lane): 30km/h.
• Urban areas (pavement and road at same level): 20km/h.
• Urban areas (two or more lanes per direction): 50km/h.

Note: It is no longer legal to exceed the speed limit by 20km/h to overtake on secondary roads.

Understanding Roundabouts

Roundabouts in Andalucía can be confusing for international drivers. The legal requirement is to use the outer lane for exiting. If you are in the inner lane, you do not have priority to cut across the outer lane to exit. If you cannot safely move to the outer lane, you must go around the roundabout again. Indicators are mandatory when changing lanes and when exiting.

Motorway Tolls (Peajes)

Most roads in Andalucía are "Autovías" (prefixed with A) and are free to use. "Autopistas" (prefixed with AP) are often toll roads.

1. AP-7 (Costa del Sol): This is the primary toll road in the region, running between Fuengirola and Guadiaro. Prices vary by season (High season: June to September and Easter). Expect to pay between €5 and €13 depending on the distance and time of year.
2. Payment: Toll booths accept cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments. You can also use a "Via-T" electronic device for automatic billing.
3. Alternatives: The A-7 runs parallel to the AP-7 and is free, though it is significantly slower and has more traffic.

Low Emission Zones (ZBE)

As of 2024, Spanish law requires all cities with more than 50,000 residents to implement Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE). This includes Seville, Málaga, Córdoba, Granada, Jerez de la Frontera, Almería, and Huelva.

• Stickers: Spanish-registered cars must display a DGT environmental sticker (B, C, ECO, or Zero). Rental cars usually have these already attached.
• Foreign Cars: If you are driving a car with non-Spanish plates, you cannot get a sticker. You must check the specific city council website to see if you need to register your vehicle before entering.
• Enforcement: Cameras scan number plates at entry points. Fines for unauthorised entry are typically €200.

Parking Zones and Fines

Parking is colour-coded in most Andalusian towns and cities. Parking in the wrong zone or without a ticket will result in a fine or your vehicle being towed (grua).

• White Lines: Free parking. These are rare in city centres.
• Blue Lines (Zona Azul): Paid parking for limited durations (usually 2 hours). You must pay at a machine or via a mobile app like Telpark or ElParking. Display the ticket on the dashboard.
• Green Lines (Zona Residente): Primarily for residents. Visitors can sometimes park here but for shorter durations and at higher rates than blue zones.
• Yellow Lines/Curb: No parking or loading/unloading only. Do not park here.

Fines (Denuncias): If you find a ticket on your windscreen in a blue zone for exceeding the time limit, you can often "cancel" it (anular) at the ticket machine by paying a small fee (around €3 to €9), provided you do so within the timeframe specified on the ticket.

Petrol Stations (Gasolineras)

Petrol stations are frequent along motorways and near town entrances.

• Fuel Types: Gasolina 95 or 98 (Unleaded petrol) and Gasóleo (Diesel).
• Self-Service: Many stations are self-service. You may need to pay at the booth or a machine first before the pump is authorised.
• Hours: On motorways, stations are often open 24 hours. In rural areas, they may close on Sundays or during siesta hours (14:00–17:00).

Compulsory Equipment

If you are driving a private car or a rental, ensure the following items are inside the vehicle:

1. Two warning triangles (or one V16 emergency light).
2. Reflective jackets for all occupants (must be kept inside the cabin, not the boot).
3. A spare wheel and the tools to change it, or a puncture repair kit.
4. A valid UK or EU driving licence (and an International Driving Permit if your licence is not in a Roman script).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn right on a red light?

No. Unlike in some countries, turning right on a red light is strictly prohibited in Spain unless there is a specific flashing amber arrow allowing the turn, and even then, you must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.

What is the drink-drive limit?

The legal limit is 0.5g/l of alcohol in the blood (0.25mg/l in breath). For drivers with less than two years of experience, the limit is lower (0.3g/l). It is recommended to avoid alcohol entirely if driving, as police frequently set up random breathalyser checkpoints.

How do I pay a traffic fine?

If you are a non-resident, the police may require you to pay a fine on the spot. If you are notified by mail, you can pay via the DGT website (dgt.es). Paying within 20 days usually results in a 50% discount on the fine amount.

Are headphones allowed while driving?

No. It is illegal to drive while wearing headphones or using a mobile phone without a completely hands-free system. This includes using headphones for GPS directions.

Summary

• Stick to the lanes: Always exit roundabouts from the outer lane and keep to the right on motorways.
• Watch the signs: Respect the 30km/h urban limits and check for ZBE signs in city centres.
• Pay for parking: Use the blue zone machines or apps to avoid towing.
• Carry papers: Keep your ID and driving licence on you at all times.