What does the medical examination for the driving licence include?

Many people arrive at the medical centre without knowing exactly what to expect. If you have questions about what the medical examination for renewing or obtaining a driving licence entails, this article explains everything.

Why is the medical examination mandatory?

The DGT requires a periodic medical examination to ensure that drivers maintain the necessary physical and mental capabilities to drive safely. This requirement is regulated by European driving licence legislation and is mandatory throughout Spain.

Tests conducted

Visual examination

Vision is the most important test. The following are assessed:

• Visual acuity — the ability to see clearly at different distances
• Visual field — the breadth of peripheral vision
• Colour vision — the ability to distinguish colours (especially relevant for traffic signage)
• Mesopic vision — the ability to see in low light conditions (important for night driving)

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must bring them with you. The tests are conducted with and without optical correction as necessary.

Hearing ability

A basic hearing assessment is conducted to detect any deficiencies that may affect driving. If significant hearing loss is detected, a report from a specialist may be required.

Psychotechnical test

The psychotechnical test evaluates cognitive abilities related to safe driving:

• Reaction time — speed of response to visual stimuli
• Sustained attention — the ability to maintain concentration over prolonged periods
• Simultaneous attention — the ability to manage multiple pieces of information at the same time
• Bimanual coordination — coordination between both hands (especially relevant for motorcycle licences)

The test is conducted using approved computer equipment. No prior preparation is required, and it cannot be “studied” for: it measures real capabilities, not theoretical knowledge.

General medical examination

The doctor conducts a clinical examination that includes:

• Measurement of blood pressure
• Review of reflexes
• Assessment of the musculoskeletal system (mobility of neck, limbs)
• Review of relevant chronic illnesses (epilepsy, diabetes, heart conditions)
• Consumption of medications that may affect driving

How long does the examination last?

The entire process lasts less than 20 minutes. It is a streamlined examination designed to be efficient without sacrificing rigor.

What happens if I fail any test?

If you do not pass any of the tests, the doctor will inform you of the reasons and the available options:

• If the issue is with your vision, the licence may be issued with the restriction of mandatory use of glasses or contact lenses
• If the issue is temporary (such as an eye infection or fatigue), you can return when you have recovered
• If there is a medical condition that requires further evaluation, a specialist report will be requested

An unfavourable outcome is not always definitive: in many cases, it is a process that can be resolved with appropriate medical attention.

What documentation do I need to bring?

You only need to bring:

• Valid DNI or NIE
• Glasses or contact lenses if you usually wear them
• There is no need to bring a photo or your previous licence

Immediate result

At the end of the examination, if the result is favourable, you will receive the provisional driving licence on the spot. The definitive licence is processed directly by the DGT and will arrive at your home within 4-8 weeks.