DGT Practical Driving Test in Spain: 2026 Guide (in English)

The practical test is the prueba de control de aptitudes y comportamientos en circulación: the examiner assesses how you handle the vehicle and how you behave in traffic. It is run on open roads, using urban streets, interurban roads outside built-up areas and, where possible, motorways or dual carriageways. The theory exam only tests what you know; this test checks that you apply it safely.

The usual route is through a driving school (autoescuela), which submits the application and arranges your date. The DGT also allows you to apply as a private candidate (por libre). Whichever route you take, check the current steps on the DGT electronic headquarters or with your local Jefatura. Practical test slots and documents can differ between provinces.

Paying the tasa and requesting the test are separate steps from booking a Jefatura appointment (cita previa). Keep the payment receipt; you will need it for the application.

The whole slot lasts 30 minutes. It includes reception, a short check of the vehicle and then the driving, which must last at least 25 minutes on open roads. The examiner may also ask you to carry out special manoeuvres for permiso B.

Before you start, the examiner may check:

• your documents, including your identity document and the application;
• the vehicle's basic safety items, such as the reflective vest (chaleco reflectante) and portable warning triangle or light (dispositivos portátiles de preseñalización de peligro);
• lights, tyres, horn and the main fluid levels.

Arrive early and bring the vehicle in a roadworthy condition. A vehicle defect that affects safety can stop the test from starting.

Every fault is recorded in one of three categories, using the DGT scoring criteria:

• Eliminatoria (E): any behaviour that endangers your own safety or that of other road users, and serious or very serious breaches of road signs. One is enough to fail.
• Deficiente (D): a breach that significantly obstructs other traffic or affects safe following distances.
• Leve (L): a minor breach of the rules, or incorrect use of the vehicle's controls.

You are declared NO APTO with one eliminatoria fault; with two deficiente faults; with one deficiente and five leve faults; or with ten leve faults.

We have not been able to confirm from official DGT sources whether the practical exam is conducted in English or whether you can bring an interpreter. The English options on DGT forms we reviewed relate to the theory exam. Before you book, ask your driving school or your Jefatura de Tráfico directly, and ask who pays for an interpreter if one is allowed.

The official fee is DGT Tasa 2.1: 94,05 €, shown on the DGT electronic headquarters. It covers two attempts. If you are declared not suitable, the test stops and you receive the result. After two failed attempts you must submit a new application and pay a new tasa. Check the current amount before you pay.

A passed theory result is valid for 2 years, so plan to book the practical test within that window.

• Know the theory well first: the practical test checks the same rules you studied, applied on the road.
• Practise urban and interurban driving: the test mixes both, so do not practise only on quiet streets.
• Rehearse the vehicle checks: know where the controls and safety items are before the examiner asks.