The Urgent Need for Truck Drivers in Spain
Almost everything you consume has traveled in a truck at some point in the process, from fresh fruit arriving at supermarkets to the Amazon packages eagerly awaited at your doorstep. The road transport sector plays a pivotal role in Spain’s economy, and right now, it faces a critical challenge: a severe shortage of truck drivers.
A Growing Deficit in the Trucking Industry
The current situation has compelled Spain to explore a previously unthinkable solution: allowing foreign drivers to exchange their licenses for Spanish ones. According to the latest data from the government, the trucking sector is short of over 20,000 professional drivers, a figure that the Spanish Confederation of Freight Transport (CETM) believes could exceed 30,000 if not addressed.
Filippo Welter, director of the fleet solutions company Eurowag Spain, stated that “more than 50% of current drivers are over 55 years old,” indicating a looming wave of retirements. The sector estimates it will require around 24,000 new drivers each year to offset this aging workforce.
The Solution: Validating Foreign Licenses
Rising Numbers of License Exchanges
A promising solution to this crisis is the validation of foreign driving licenses. Data from the DGT published by EFE shows that in 2025, there were 15,589 exchanges of type C (truck) and type D (bus) driving licenses for foreign citizens. This marked a 12% increase from the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for foreign drivers to fill the gaps.
The DGT initiated a digital permit exchange system in May 2025, aimed at speeding up the validation process for citizens from countries that have bilateral agreements with Spain. This move is crucial for attracting foreign drivers to the sector.
Key Countries for License Exchanges
The leading countries for license exchanges into Spain include Peru, Morocco, and Colombia. In 2025, Peruvian drivers accounted for the most exchanges, with 4,317 licenses validated, making up 27% of total processed exchanges. Moroccan and Colombian drivers also showed a significant presence, with 2,248 and 1,206 exchanges, respectively.
To facilitate Moroccan drivers’ entry into the workforce, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has adapted validation requirements, so they are exempt from taking the theoretical exam but must still complete a practical test and obtain the Certificate of Professional Aptitude (CAP).
A Structural Issue Without Quick Fixes
While the exchange of licenses serves as an immediate response, it is not perceived as a comprehensive solution to the driver deficit. This is a global issue affecting many countries. In an effort to address this challenge, the Spanish government introduced the Reconduce Plan, which offers up to 3,000 euros in aid for obtaining C and D driving permits. Special agreements with countries like Türkiye are also being pursued to simplify processes for Turkish drivers.
The Lack of Generational Change
The core issue remains a lack of generational change within the trucking workforce. Data from the International Road Transport Organization (IRU) reveals that the average age of truck drivers in Spain is 47, with only 3% under the age of 25. Although salaries in the sector have risen due to shortages, the profession struggles to attract younger individuals. Factors beyond pay, such as long hours away from home and difficulties in balancing work-life commitments, play a significant role in discouraging new entrants.
In conclusion, Spain is at a crossroads concerning its trucking workforce. While allowing foreign drivers to validate their licenses represents a step forward, a comprehensive strategy must also address deeper issues affecting the industry’s appeal to younger people. Without changes on multiple fronts, the challenge of a staffing shortage may persist.