Question about Spanish laws
For those that have moved to Spain from the US, are there any peculiar Spanish laws that we should know about?
Anything that would not be against the law in the States? For example, I heard that if you don’t have flares and a reflective vest in your car you can be fined. Can anyone share some personal experiences that could help newbies?
Answers
These are the answers of some Facebook group members:
”It’s very friendly here so if you see someone you know it’s ok to just pull over for a chat.
If you’re in the bank or shop in a queue it’s ok to stop and admire the new baby that’s just come in even if you are next in line. You must say hello and make eye contact with people even if you don’t know them. On the whole young people will give way to you on pavements. It is forbidden to rush around with a cup of takeaway coffee. Desayuno must be had sitting down at a table with friends and siesta are recommended”
”Don’t worry here police won’t shoot you”
”Two hands on the steering wheel, the pedestrian has the right of way, don’t speed, definitely any aggressive driving. The good news is people don’t really die in their cars no constant parade of emergency vehicles responding to fatal car accidents. I am here for 18 months and have seen one accident on the highway because of the lower speed limits e everyone walked away. The whole driving thing reminds me of the USA back in the 1960s &70s .but the #1 no-no is don’t beep that horn”
”Don’t talk back to the police. Due to the anti-gag law, they can give you a ticket”
”No, using your horn in urban areas. Must carry an extra pair of eyeglasses (if you require them to drive). Must carry two warning triangles. Never heard of the flare rule though. And reflective vests are not mandatory but recommended”
”If you’re a resident of Spain you can only drive legally in Spain for 6 months with your US driver’s license accompanied by an international driver’s permit (available at AAA in the US). After 6 months you need to have completed Spanish driving school and passed the written and practical tests to get your Spanish license. It’s considerably more difficult than the US driving tests. Most people take three or more months to prepare and spend between 500-900€ for classes, tests, medical exams and fees”
”Pedestrians really have the right of way on the pedestrian crossing and no walking around in swimsuits”
”You cannot drive in sandals, and you can’t drink any beverages while driving”
”Don’t take photos of police or incidences”
”DUI 0.05% versus 0.08% in the USA”
”Don’t be using your cell phone while driving, it’s illegal. I mean, you’ll do it but try not to get caught”
”Don’t think too far ahead…..it’s at least 1.5 years away. Before you have those things….you’d have to have a Spanish driver’s license for you to have a car (and at the same time….have a garaje parking spot which is few and far between also)”
”Honestly, that’s really sweet and positive and in general, can be used as a general rule because the Spanish laws are nothing like the states. Just be respectful, but depends on where u are people will give u way or push u aside! Unfortunately, young people ALL over the work are each day more disrespectful so just always walk with care when you’re not familiar with an area”
”Nude sunbathing is not permitted on public beaches, only permitted on private properties”
”If you even think a pedestrian is going to enter a crosswalk you must stop until you see if he does or doesn’t”
”I saw in the winter that you cannot wear a heavy winter coat while driving. I think you get fined up to 200€”
”EU data privacy laws about taking pics/video with other people in them without permission”
”On the left line of the highway, give the right away immediately to the speedy car behind you. It doesn’t matter if you are already driving at the legal max speed limit. Someone is driving faster and wants you to get out of his/her way asap! Ain’t like the States, fortunately”
”They do not prosecute for petty theft, anything under E300. Watch your phone”
”Don’t carry a blade longer the 11cm”
”Don’t eat while driving. Don’t blast your radio. Don’t drive like an idiot on the highway. Talking about the left lane parkers”
In conclusion, according to Spainguru Facebook group members, when moving to Spain from the US, there are a few peculiar Spanish laws and customs to keep in mind. For example, it’s advisable to carry flares, reflective vests, and warning triangles in your car. Spanish driving etiquette emphasizes courtesy and giving pedestrians the right of way. It’s important to refrain from aggressive driving, honking the horn, or using cell phones while driving. Additionally, be cautious with photography involving police or incidents. Adapting to life in Spain involves respecting local norms and being aware of lower blood alcohol limits for driving. Familiarize yourself with these regulations and embrace the culture to ease your transition.
