Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s points-based driving licence system has been in place since 2006. Introduced by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), it was designed to penalise unsafe drivers and promote long-term road safety.
The system rewards careful drivers over time, while still acting as a deterrent against risky or unlawful behaviour behind the wheel.
How many points do drivers start with?
When a driver first obtains their licence in Spain, they start with eight points. This applies to all new drivers with less than three years of experience. If no traffic offences are committed within the first two years, their points increase to twelve. Three more years of offence-free driving brings that total to fourteen; after another three years, the maximum of fifteen points is reached. Maintaining this record reflects a consistent commitment to road safety, and the system encourages such behaviour with tangible benefits.
How are points lost?
Points can be lost quickly through common traffic violations. Using a mobile phone while driving, for example, leads to an immediate deduction of six points. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can also result in the loss of up to six points. Running a red light, driving recklessly, or failing to wear a seatbelt or helmet are all offences that result in penalties. If a driver loses all their points, their licence is revoked. To regain it, they must take a rehabilitation course and pass a theory test—a process that reinforces the seriousness of the offence and encourages behavioural change.
A new way to earn points: The 2025 DGT course
In 2025, the DGT is introducing a new route for drivers to improve their standing. From 26 March, a government-backed course titled Conducción Segura y Eficiente (Safe and Efficient Driving) will allow drivers to earn up to two additional points, helping them reach the 15-point maximum sooner.
What does the course involve?
The course runs for ten hours and is split into two parts. The first seven hours involve theory sessions in a group setting, covering topics such as road safety, behavioural change, and real-life testimonies from accident victims. Emergency services may also contribute to the session through visual materials or live discussions.
The remaining three hours are dedicated to practical driving. These sessions are tailored to individual participants, focusing on specific risks such as speeding, distraction, or impaired driving. The training takes place on both public roads and closed circuits. Drivers can choose between a course focused on urban traffic or one that deals with rural roads. While most drivers are eligible to take the course once every two years, professional drivers are permitted to attend annually. Only centres accredited by the DGT are authorised to offer the course.
Can you still gain points without a course?
Even without enrolling in this course, drivers can still earn extra points through clean driving. After three years without any traffic offences, two points are added to the licence. A further three years without infractions earns one more point, bringing the total to fifteen. This gradual incentive encourages long-term commitment to responsible driving, offering a path to recovery for those who have lost points and a reward for those who follow the rules consistently.
Broader changes to Spanish traffic law
The updated course forms part of a wider package of changes to Spanish road safety regulations. In 2025, new rules will also apply to motorcyclists and young drivers. These include stricter training requirements, mandatory protective equipment, and adjusted speed limits in some cases.
Older drivers, particularly those over the age of 65, will face more frequent medical check-ups and shorter licence renewal periods. These changes are intended to ensure that all road users meet consistent safety standards, regardless of age or experience.
Driving safely pays off
The points-based licence system in Spain strikes a balance between deterrence and reward. Whether through years of safe driving or by taking part in the new DGT course, motorists have a clear opportunity to improve their record.
Also read: How to spot a fake DGT fine and avoid scams