The Spanish traffic authority (DGT) has confirmed an unprecedented change that could reshape how young people in Spain learn to drive. The reform, driven by new European rules from Brussels, introduces a system already used in several EU countries. It is designed to allow teenagers to begin driving earlier under supervision — a move officials say could improve road safety in the long term.
The announcement is likely to be welcomed by many families, who see it as an opportunity for young people to gain experience behind the wheel sooner. But the new framework comes with strict conditions, marking a clear departure from the system that has been in place in Spain for decades.
The changes form part of a broader EU effort to align driving rules across member states. The approach draws heavily on the model used in Germany, where accompanied driving has been in place for years and is linked to lower accident rates among new drivers.
EU directive behind the reform
At the centre of the change is Article 17 of European Directive 2025/2205, which sets out a common legal framework for all EU countries. Under the directive, those under 18 may be allowed to drive, but only under tightly controlled conditions.
The system — often referred to as “accompanied driving” — is based on the idea that early, supervised experience helps build safer and more responsible drivers. Evidence from Germany suggests those trained this way are less likely to be involved in accidents once they begin driving independently.
What the new rules would allow
According to the DGT, the licence available to under-18s would be limited to Category B — the standard licence for cars. This would allow young drivers to operate vehicles weighing up to 3,500kg and carrying no more than eight passengers plus the driver. They would also be permitted to tow small trailers weighing up to 750kg.
However, they would not be allowed to drive motorcycles, heavy vehicles, or any other categories during this period.
Mandatory supervision
A key feature of the scheme is that young drivers must be accompanied at all times. Driving alone would not be permitted under any circumstances. The supervising passenger must meet strict criteria. In most cases, they must be at least 24 years old and fully capable of overseeing the journey. Alternatively, a younger person may take on the role if they have held a valid EU driving licence for at least five years.
Responsibility is shared between the driver and the accompanying adult. That means the supervisor must also comply with the rules — including a strict ban on alcohol and drugs while in the vehicle.
When the changes could happen
Although the directive has already been approved at EU level, Spain has until 26 November 2028 to incorporate the rules into national law. Officials say work is already under way. A dedicated group is examining how the system would operate in practice — including testing, fees, and how compliance would be monitored.
While the timeline is still being finalised, the shift signals one of the most significant changes to driver training in Spain in a generation.