The DGT allows driving at 17 years old with supervision: what you need to know
Imagine a 17-year-old proudly showing their driver's license, but unable to drive a single kilometer alone. This new reality is about to arrive in Spain, thanks to the recent decision by the European Union.
The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is already preparing to adapt to a regulation that will change the game: minors will be allowed to drive before turning 18, but always accompanied. But what exactly does this change imply?
The new European regulation and the driver's license at 17 years old
European Directive 2025/2205 has approved that young people aged 17 can obtain a class B driving license, a measure that breaks with the usual age to access the license. The DGT must make the final adaptation before November 26, 2028, implementing a progressive model based on accompanied driving that already works in countries like Germany.
🚗 Minimum age: 17 years (with companion)
🔰 Condition: Supervision by an adult with a license
The obtaining process: no changes
Applicants will still have to pass theoretical and practical tests without any relaxation or modification. The path to the license remains equally demanding. What changes is what happens afterward: until 18, the novice driver must be accompanied by an adult supervisor.
Accompanied driving: what does it mean?
During this period, the young person cannot drive alone. The adult accompanying them must be at least 24 years old and have held a license of the same category for five years. They must also show a clean record, without license suspensions, and strictly comply with the rules, especially regarding alcohol or drugs.
Requirements and responsibilities of the supervisor
Profile and conditions of the companion
The supervisor is key for road safety: they must be an experienced driver with at least five years of a license, without serious sanctions involving license withdrawal. The DGT emphasizes that their behavior must be exemplary throughout the supervision.
What does being a supervisor imply?
The figure of the supervisor is not just a pastime: they must ensure the novice’s safety and act as a mentor during the first months. Montserrat Pérez, Deputy Director General of Training and Road Education, highlights the usefulness of this measure especially in rural areas or for young people with autonomy needs in travel.
Impact on driving schools and training
No changes in the learning system
Despite changes in age and supervision, training does not change. Driving schools will maintain their methods and content, since the European directive only regulates the age and administrative conditions of the license, not the learning itself.
A progressive and adapted transition
The DGT foresees a gradual implementation to avoid shocks and confusion. The goal is that accompanied driving is not a bureaucratic trap, but a true support for the safety of young drivers.
| Aspect | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Minimum age to drive | 17 years with supervisor, 18 years for solo driving |
| Supervisor conditions | 24 years or older, 5 years licensed, clean record |
| Exams | No changes in theoretical and practical |
| Effective date | Before November 26, 2028 |
The reality is that driving at 17 will no longer be an impossible dream, but don’t expect total freedom. Mandatory supervision and strict requirements will make this period more of a vigilant learning experience than a simple ride.
