First-Time ES Spain driving license 32x26 mm Application Tips - Beginner's Guide

Requirements

• Photo specifications: two identical recent color photos sized exactly 32 × 26 mm, matte finish, neutral light background, full face centered, no glasses reflections
• Identity document: valid Spanish DNI or foreigner’s NIE card plus photocopy, all details legible and unexpired
• Medical certificate: original “Informe de Aptitud Psicofísica” issued by an authorised Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores within the last three months
• Application form Modelo 791: completed, signed and stamped by the medical centre, including Código 1 for first-time B-class licence
• Driving school certificate: proof of enrolment and attendance at a recognised autoescuela for the mandatory theoretical (30 h) and practical (10 h) lessons
• Fee payment: payment of the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) fee (currently €72) via Modelo 791 bank receipt or online payment confirmation
• Theory exam appointment: booked online through the DGT website or at your local Provincial Traffic Office, include exam fee receipt and identification
• Practical exam booking: schedule once you pass theory and complete minimum driving hours, bring vehicle meeting DGT technical requirements
• Proof of residency: reciente certificado de empadronamiento (issued within the last three months) if your address differs from that on your DNI/NIE
• Photocopies provision: supply one clear copy of all originals (DNI/NIE, medical certificate, approved Modelo 791) alongside originals at submission
• Submission location: file application in person at your provincial Jefatura de Tráfico office; some provinces allow advance online pre-registration
• Application tip – document order: organise in this sequence in your folder—1) ID copy, 2) empadronamiento, 3) medical report, 4) Modelo 791 with payment, 5) school certificate, 6) photos—to speed up office checks

Step-by-Step Process

Content about First-Time ES Spain driving license 32x26 mm Application Tips - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Exact Dimensions: Submit a photo sized precisely 32×26 mm with a tolerance of ±1 mm; incorrect dimensions are the top reason for DGT rejections, causing delays or application returns
• Head Position: Center your face so that head height measures 23–28 mm from chin to crown and occupies about 80 % of the frame without tilting; misalignment leads to automatic disqualification by the licensing office
• Neutral Expression: Maintain a relaxed, neutral expression with closed mouth, open eyes looking directly at the camera and no raised eyebrows; exaggerated expressions hinder biometric checks, risking rejection
• Plain Background: Use a uniform white or light-grey background free of shadows, textures, or objects; busy or patterned backgrounds confuse biometric software and result in photo refusal
• Print Quality: Print on high-resolution (≥600 dpi) matte photo paper with true-to-life color balance; low-resolution, overexposed, underexposed or glossy photos reflect light and are frequently rejected by the DGT

Conclusion

Summary of First-Time ES Spain Driving License 32×26 mm Application Tips

• Prepare required documents: valid ID, proof of residence, medical certificate, application form (Model 14)
• Get your 32×26 mm photo printed to spec: white background, frontal view, 70–80 % head coverage, no shadows or accessories
• Complete the online pre-application, pay fees (carnet de conducir), and book your cita previa at the DGT office
• Arrive promptly with originals and copies, submit documents, photos, and payment receipt for processing
• Study the highway code and practice in a certified driving school to pass theory and practical exams on first attempt

By following these steps and ensuring your photo meets the exact 32×26 mm criteria, you’ll streamline your first-time driving license application in Spain.