Updated list of health conditions affecting driving in Spain

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), Spain’s traffic authority, continues to enforce strict regulations to maintain road safety. Among its responsibilities is identifying medical conditions that could compromise a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If a person suffers from certain health issues, this may affect their ability to renew a driving licence—or, in some cases, could result in losing the right to drive entirely.

Medical conditions that may restrict driving in Spain

The DGT has published an updated list of diseases and disorders that may affect an individual’s driving eligibility. These conditions require medical assessment and may lead to a driving ban if the impairment is considered serious. Here is the list in alphabetical order:

• Alzheimer’s Disease

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

• Cancer Undergoing Treatment

• Cardiac Arrhythmias

• Chronic Respiratory Conditions

• Diabetes That Requires Insulin

• Epilepsy

• Heart Attack (Recent History)

• Heart Disease with Pacemaker or Defibrillator

• Kidney Failure on Dialysis

• Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

• Parkinson’s Disease (Advanced Stage)

• Psychiatric Illnesses or Severe Dementia

• Stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)

Drivers diagnosed with one or more of these conditions will not automatically lose their licence. The outcome depends on a medical assessment carried out by a licensed practitioner. If the doctor concludes the condition severely impacts driving ability, they may advise against renewing the licence.

Licence renewal and medical checks in Spain

Renewing a Spanish driving licence requires passing a mandatory medical examination. The frequency of renewal depends largely on age:

• Under 65 years: Licence is valid for 10 years.

• 65 years and older: Must be renewed every 5 years.

• Chronic or serious conditions: May lead to more frequent renewals.

Doctors evaluate various factors, including vision, cardiovascular health, neurological condition, and mental fitness. Any deterioration could result in temporary or permanent restrictions on driving.

The mandatory psychotechnical test

Whether you’re applying for your first licence or renewing an existing one, a psychotechnical test is required. This health and coordination test helps determine your fitness to drive. It typically includes:

• Medical history: A questionnaire covering illnesses, allergies, and medication.

• Visual acuity check: Identifying symbols or letters from different distances.

• Coordination test: A basic task, such as guiding a ball through a maze on screen, to assess motor control.

The test generally costs between €30 and €80. If successful, your medical certificate will be signed, and your licence application can proceed.

Stay safe and informed

Spanish law aims to balance public safety with the rights of individual drivers. If you have a condition on the DGT’s list, staying proactive with regular check-ups and complying with renewal rules ensures you remain both safe and legal behind the wheel.

Also read: Spain considers overhaul of driving test: Evaluating American and UK models