Seeing a Guardia Civil traffic patrol or roadside checkpoint can make some drivers feel uneasy, especially if they are visiting Spain for the first time. In most cases, however, these checks are routine and are carried out to improve road safety rather than because you’ve done something wrong.
Police operations are more common during the summer, when Spain’s roads are much busier with holidaymakers, hire cars and increased traffic. Officers may be checking documentation, vehicle condition, seatbelt use or conducting drink and drug-driving tests.
If you are signalled to stop, remain calm, slow down safely and pull over where instructed. Unless asked otherwise, stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until the officer approaches.
Be prepared to show your driving licence, identification and any relevant vehicle documents. If you’re driving a hire car, many of these will already be in the vehicle. Listen carefully to any instructions and explain politely if you do not understand Spanish.
Routine breath tests and basic vehicle inspections are also common and are designed to help keep Spain’s roads safe. A polite, cooperative approach usually means the check is completed quickly and you can continue your journey.
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