Misunderstanding on the recognition of Moroccan driving licenses in Spain

During his recent meeting with King Mohammed VI in Rabat, Pedro Sánchez announced the adoption of a measure to recognize Moroccan C and D driving licenses in Spain, without the need to take an exam as is currently the case, according to El Debate, recalling that with regard to B driving licenses for cars, the two countries had signed a mutual recognition agreement on June 2, 2004.

At the request of the Spanish National Federation of Transport Associations (FENADISMER), the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) clarified this week that the measure only concerns the theoretical exam and that Moroccan carriers wishing to validate their driving license in Spain will have to undergo a practical exam and take courses to obtain the professional competence certificate (CAP).

The transport associations had protested against this direct validation of Moroccan licenses, noting that Moroccan carriers do not master the Spanish Highway Code. The Spanish National Confederation of Driving Schools (CNAE) had also given its opinion on the matter, calling for the training of Moroccan carriers and having them take a test before granting them the license.

Spain is currently looking for more than 20,000 drivers and plans to recruit this workforce in Morocco. Moroccan drivers represent 25% of the 80,000 foreigners out of the 400,000 carriers in the country. They demonstrate exemplary driving and are involved in only 1.7% of road accidents causing victims in Spain.