Spain on an Australian Licence — The Side Switch & Spain's Camera Wall

Spain is one of the most enjoyable countries in Europe to drive — good motorways, clear signage and relaxed roads once you are out of the cities. For an Australian, two things shape the trip: the side of the road, and how seriously Spain enforces its limits.

You are switching sides. Australia drives on the left; Spain drives on the right. This is the single biggest adjustment, and the risk sits in your first few hours — pulling out of a car park, joining a roundabout that now flows the other way, or a reflex glance the wrong direction at a junction. Collect the car somewhere quiet rather than central Madrid or Barcelona, and be deliberate until right-hand driving stops feeling backwards.

Spain watches its roads closely. Fixed and mobile cameras cover most major routes, including average-speed stretches that clock you over a distance rather than at a point. Limits are 50 km/h in towns, 90 on rural roads and 120 on motorways. Drifting about 10 km/h over typically costs around EUR 100, and police can issue on-the-spot fines — carry a card or cash. Estimate any penalty with the Speeding Fine Calculator.

Your Australian licence is valid for up to six months, and an International Driving Permit is recommended rather than required — it gives a certified translation that smooths things at rental desks and roadside checks. Sort it before you fly and confirm with the Driving Permit Checker. The drink-drive limit is 0.05, the same as home, but enforcement is firmer, so keep it minimal. Spanish cars must carry a warning triangle and reflective vest.

Petrol is around $1.70/litre, and the emergency number is 112. Read the full rules on the Spain driving guide before you pick up the keys — past the side switch and the cameras, Spain is a forgiving place to drive.