The Driver Shortage Crisis in Spain
The lack of professional drivers in Spain’s road transport sector has hit critical levels, prompting significant reliance on hiring foreign workers and activating public aid initiatives. This shortage not only affects the national transport of goods but also the movement of travelers.
Current Vacancies in the Sector
Spain currently faces a daunting challenge, with over 30,000 vacant positions for truck drivers and around 4,700 for bus drivers. This information comes from the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, as reported by EFE. A concerning factor contributing to this situation is the high average age of existing drivers, compounded by exceptionally low participation from younger generations—only 2.7% of bus drivers and 5% of truck drivers are under 25.
Permit Exchange Initiatives
In response to the growing demand, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has expanded its permit exchange procedures for foreign drivers. In 2025 alone, there were 15,589 exchanges for C (truck) and D (bus) licenses, marking a 12% increase from 2024. Peru has emerged as the leader in these exchanges, followed closely by Morocco and Colombia. Peruvian permit holders represented 27% of all validated permits in 2025, showcasing the increasing trend of foreign drivers entering the Spanish market.
Streamlining the Exchange Process
By May 2025, DGT implemented a completely online procedure to simplify permit exchanges. This technological shift has addressed previous issues, particularly the challenge of securing in-person appointments. The exchanged licenses are valid throughout the EU, adhering to community regulations.
Requirements and Subsidies
To qualify for permit exchanges, candidates must meet specific administrative criteria and have obtained their original driving permit before establishing legal residence in Spain. Currently, Spain has exchange agreements with 33 non-EU nations for types C and D permits. Most applicants must pass theoretical and practical tests, although recent adjustments, like the agreement with Morocco, allow validation by a single practical test.
The Spanish government also introduced a subsidy program, providing grants of up to €2,000 for individuals entering the profession. This funding covers essential costs related to obtaining C and D permits and psychotechnical exams, helping foster a new generation of drivers.
Private Sector Initiatives
The private sector is stepping in with initiatives to address the demand. A notable example is the collaboration between the Andalusian association Usintra, the Córdoba Campus Foundation, and the Turkish Ministry of Labor. They have signed an agreement to facilitate the integration of Turkish truck drivers into Spanish companies, offering training, language courses, and accommodation for selected candidates. Turkey reportedly has over 300,000 truck drivers looking for employment, making this initiative timely and significant.
*With information from EFE