What driving licence can I get at 18 in Spain?

Eighteen is the key age in the Spanish DGT catalogue: the B (car) licence unlocks, plus the A2 (motorcycles up to 35 kW), and through the B you also gain access to B+E (heavy trailer), C1 (light trucks up to 7,500 kg), D1 (minibuses up to 16 seats) and LCM (special machinery). The B remains the default choice for almost everyone — it authorises cars up to 3,500 kg and 9 seats, is the entry to normal private transport, and is the base that grants access to higher licences without repeating training. The theory exam is 30 questions, 3 errors max, 30 minutes. Average total cost in Spain is €700-€1,500.

Permits accessible at 18

• BB licence

  Car up to 3,500 kg and 9 seats. Light trailer ≤750 kg.

• A2A2 licence

  Motorcycle up to 35 kW (47 hp).

• A1A1 licence

  Motorcycle up to 125 cc and 11 kW.

• AMAM licence

  Moped up to 50 cc.

• B+EB+E licence

  Car + heavy trailer (>750 kg). Requires B first.

• C1C1 licence

  Light truck up to 7,500 kg. Requires B first.

• D1D1 licence

  Minibus up to 16 seats. Requires B first; full access from 21.

• LCMLCM licence

  Special self-propelled machinery (construction and services).

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a driving school or can I go independent?

In Spain it is legal to take any DGT licence as an independent candidate. In practice the theory can be prepared free online, but the practical road exam is almost always taken via a driving school because the dual-control lessons are the standard way to prepare it. For AM or A1 some people go independent; for B the vast majority go through a school, even though the practical lessons are the highest variable cost of the budget.

When is a good time to start studying the theory?

The theory can be prepared online at any age — the material is public and free. It pays to start at least 4-8 weeks before the target exam date, especially if you've never touched signs or rules. If you're going to obtain several permits progressively, parts of the syllabus overlap across AM → A1 → A2 → B, so each successive exam is somewhat easier than the previous one.

Does the B licence also authorise riding a motorbike?

Yes, with conditions. After 3 years' seniority on the B you can ride A1 motorcycles (up to 125 cc and 11 kW) and motor tricycles within Spanish territory without an extra exam. It does NOT include A2 or A bikes — those require the specific licence. Before 3 years on the B you cannot ride any motorcycle without the matching motorcycle permit.