Driving in Spain? UK Tourists Face £174 Fines for This Common Mistake

UK tourists planning to drive in Spain are being warned they could face fines of up to €200 (around £174) for making a little-known mistake on the road. This fine can be issued simply for entering certain parts of Spanish towns and cities without proper authorization.

According to motoring experts at Number 1 Plates, the issue stems from Low Emission Zones (LEZ) — known in Spanish as Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE) — which have been rolled out across the country since January 2023. These zones are active in 149 towns and cities, including major destinations like Madrid, Barcelona, Cordoba, and Seville, as well as any municipality with a population over 50,000.

“It’s not a suggestion — it’s the law,” experts warned. “And British drivers are just as likely to be fined as locals. You could be fined before you’ve even found a parking spot.”

Vehicles that do not meet environmental standards — or have not been properly registered or exempted — are subject to on-the-spot fines. For UK drivers, this means that simply entering a restricted area without the necessary permissions could result in a penalty of €200 (£174).

In Barcelona, the regulations are particularly strict. All foreign vehicles must be registered online prior to entering the city’s LEZ. If a vehicle meets the city's emissions standards, it may receive a long-term permit. Otherwise, the driver may only be granted occasional access, limited to 24 days per year. The LEZ is enforced Monday through Friday, from 7am to 8pm. There is also a registration fee of €7.

Motorists are advised to check the emissions classification of their vehicles before travelling. For example, while French drivers cannot buy a Spanish LEZ sticker, their Crit'Air sticker is recognized in Spain — though they must ensure their vehicle’s classification is equivalent to Spanish requirements.

Aside from emission zone rules, tourists should also be aware of Spain’s strict road safety laws. This includes tightened regulations for motorcyclists, who must wear protective clothing and helmets that meet local safety standards.

Other important reminders for UK drivers:

• In Spain, people drive on the right-hand side of the road — something UK visitors must remember.

• Speed limits and traffic enforcement may differ significantly from the UK.

• There are mandatory items that must be carried in every vehicle, such as reflective jackets, warning triangles, and spare bulbs.

Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to further fines or penalties. Travelers are urged to research all road rules thoroughly before driving in Spain to avoid unexpected issues.