31 January 2008
Roads in Spain are becoming safer as a result of new legislation which compels people who undergo procedures on their eyes to have vision tests and renew their driving licences.
Under the new regulations, designed to make Spanish highways safer, an estimated 75,000 motorists a year in Spain will be required to renew their driving licence, having undergone corrective surgery on their vision.
According to Typically Spanish, the new sight test will cost around €30 (£22), while the licence renewal will be around €18. Failure to comply with the new rules will result in a €300 fine, an appeal and drivers will be required to produce a copy of medical certificate.
The Spanish cabinet has also ruled that a four-year period to renew a licence that has expired should be removed and a tougher theory test is coming into force in September this year.
British drivers are advised that it is possible to drive easily in Spain with a valid European licence as either a resident or a visitor without having to swap it for a Spanish one, though it is possible to do so.
