1. What side of the road is driven in El Puerto de Santa María and Spain?
In Spain, including El Puerto de Santa María, you have to drive on the right side of the road.
2. What are the common speed limits in El Puerto de Santa María?
Generally, the speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h, on main roads outside towns it's 90 km/h, and on motorways and dual carriageways the limit is typically 120 km/h.
3. Can foreign drivers use their home country driver's license in El Puerto de Santa María?
EU driver's licenses are recognized in Spain. Non-EU drivers should have their International Driving Permit along with their valid national driving license.
4. Are there toll roads around El Puerto de Santa María and in Spain?
Spain has both toll-free highways and toll roads. You'll find electronic toll plazas on most of the highways around El Puerto de Santa María.
5. What are the basic rules of driving I should be aware of?
Seatbelts must be worn at all times, children under 12 must be in a child seat, and the use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
6. How do traffic lights work in Spain?
Standard traffic light signals are used in Spain: green for go, yellow for prepare to stop, and red for stop. Spain also uses flashing green lights to indicate that the yellow light is about to come on.
7. Is there a penalty system for traffic violations?
Yes, traffic violations such as speeding, running red lights, illegal parking etc. will result in fines and, in severe cases, loss of your driving permit.
8. How are the parking rules in Spain?
In urban areas, parking is regulated with blue zones (paid parking) and green zones (resident parking). White zone parking is free.
9. Are there many roundabouts in Spanish roads?
Yes, roundabouts are popular in Spain. You need to give way to cars already on the roundabout, indicate to exit, and it's important to be aware of lanes.
10. Are there many speed cameras in Spain?
Yes, there are many speed cameras installed around Spain, including El Puerto de Santa María and bigger motorways, to catch those who are over the speed limit.
11. Can I use a dash cam when driving in Spain?
Yes, it is allowed to use a dash cam for personal use. However, sharing the images publicly could infringe data protection rights and might lead to fines.
12. What documents do I need to carry when driving in Spain?
You should always carry your driving license, car rental agreement (if applicable), ID or passport, and insurance certificate while driving.
13. Are there HOV lanes in Spain?
Yes, High-Occupancy Vehicle lanes are present in some Spanish roads and are reserved for vehicles with two or more occupants to encourage carpooling.
14. How can I familiar myself with Spanish road signs?
Before you start driving in Spain, you should learn the common road signs. They're internationally recognised, but several country-specific signs are used too.
15. Are pedestrians and cyclists given right of way in Spain?
In Spain, pedestrians have the right of way at zebra crossings without traffic lights, and drivers are taught to always look for cyclists, especially on roundabouts.