Traffic Fines in Spain: Complete Guide
Complete guide to traffic fines in Spain. Common violations, fine amounts, how to pay, discounts, and appeal process explained.
Understanding traffic fines in Spain helps you avoid penalties and know your rights. This guide covers common violations, payment, and appeals.
Common Traffic Violations
Most common traffic fines:
- Speeding: €100-600 depending on excess speed
- Parking violations: €80-200
- Mobile phone use: €200 + 3 points
- No seatbelt: €200 + 3 points
- Running red light: €200 + 4 points
- Drink driving: €500-1,000 + 4-6 points
- No insurance: €3,000 + vehicle impounded
- No ITV: €200
Fine Amounts
Speeding fines:
- Up to 20 km/h over limit: €100
- 21-30 km/h over: €300
- 31-40 km/h over: €400
- 41-50 km/h over: €500
- Over 50 km/h: €600 + possible license suspension
Parking fines:
- Expired meter: €80-100
- No parking zone: €200
- Blocking traffic: €200 + towing
- Disabled space: €200
Serious violations:
- Reckless driving: €500 + 6 points
- Refusing breathalyzer: €1,000 + 6 points
- Driving without license: €500
How to Pay Traffic Fines
Payment methods:
- Online:
- DGT website: sede.dgt.gob.es
- Need fine number and license plate
- Pay by card
- Bank:
- Take payment slip to any bank
- Pay in cash or card
- Post office:
- Some fines can be paid at Correos
- Phone:
- Call 060 (DGT information line)
- Pay by card
Early Payment Discount
50% discount if you pay within 20 days:
- Applies to most traffic fines
- Doesn't apply to serious violations (drink driving, reckless driving)
- You waive right to appeal by accepting discount
- Points still deducted from license
Example:
- Speeding fine: €300
- Pay within 20 days: €150
- Savings: €150
Appealing a Fine
When to appeal:
- You weren't driving the vehicle
- Fine details are incorrect
- Speed camera/radar was faulty
- Signs were unclear or missing
- Emergency situation justified violation
Appeal process:
- Submit written appeal (alegaciones):
- Within 20 days of receiving fine
- Online via DGT website or by mail
- Include evidence (photos, documents)
- Wait for response:
- Usually 3-6 months
- Fine suspended during appeal
- If rejected:
- Can appeal to administrative court
- Need lawyer (recommended)
- Takes 6-12 months
Important: If you appeal, you can't get the 50% discount. Only appeal if you have strong grounds.
Points System
Spanish driving license points:
- Start with 12 points (8 for new drivers)
- Violations deduct points
- Lose all points = license suspended
Point deductions:
- Minor violations: 2 points
- Serious violations: 3-4 points
- Very serious: 6 points
Recovering points:
- Automatic recovery: 2 years without violations (all points back)
- Awareness course: Recover up to 6 points
- 12-hour course
- Cost: €200-300
- Can take once every 2 years
Check your points:
- Online: DGT website with digital certificate
- SMS: Send PUNTOS to 40400
- In person: DGT office