The Balearic Islands are facing a growing traffic crisis, with nearly as many vehicles as residents on the roads. Recent figures released by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) show that the islands now have 986 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants.
Despite free public transport, the number of cars and other vehicles continues to rise, pushing the region closer to gridlock.
Vehicle numbers on the rise
In 2023, the total number of vehicles in the Balearic Islands grew by over 8,500 compared to the previous year. The total vehicle count now stands at 1.18 million, just shy of the region’s population. The DGT’s statistics reveal that the number of vehicles per capita has increased from 894 per 1,000 residents in 2022 to 921 in 2023. Including mopeds, the figure jumps to 986 per 1,000 inhabitants, meaning that for every resident, there is almost one vehicle on the road.
This puts Baleares second only to Cuenca in Spain for vehicle density, but when mopeds are included, the islands surpass even Cuenca in terms of vehicle-to-population ratio. The growing number of vehicles contributes to increasing traffic congestion, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Mallorca.
More drivers, more traffic
In addition to the rising number of vehicles, the number of licensed drivers is also on the up. In 2023, nearly 18,700 new drivers hit the roads in the Balearic Islands, a sharp increase from 15,000 the previous year. This equates to 51 new drivers each day. Despite free public transport options, more people are choosing to drive, exacerbating the region’s already serious traffic problems.
The growing fleet of vehicles is also becoming more diverse, with an increasing number of caravans and trailers on the roads. Many of these are being used as mobile homes, reflecting the ongoing housing crisis in Palma, where some residents live in caravans due to the lack of affordable accommodation.
A record number of drivers
Baleares hit a record number of licensed drivers in 2023, with 643,469 people holding a driving licence. Men still outnumber women when it comes to licences, with 352,696 male drivers compared to 346,117 female drivers. Interestingly, in 2022, women held more licences than men, but the balance has since shifted.
Despite the growing number of drivers, the islands have one of the lowest success rates for passing driving tests. Only 44% of candidates pass both the theory and practical exams, placing Baleares behind other Spanish regions like Las Palmas and Burgos.
No easy solution
The Balearic Islands’ traffic problems show no signs of slowing down. Even with public transport becoming more accessible, the region continues to see an influx of vehicles and drivers, leading to worsening congestion. With almost one vehicle for every resident and traffic jams becoming a daily reality, the islands face a significant challenge in managing mobility in the years to come.