Driving in Mallorca is one of the best ways to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and hidden beaches. But before you hit the road, it’s important to understand Spanish driving rules to stay safe and avoid unexpected fines.
From speed limits and alcohol restrictions to essential road signs and local driving customs, this guide will walk you through everything tourists need to know about driving in Mallorca.
1. Driving Licence & Legal Requirements
Before renting a car, make sure you have the right documents to legally drive in Spain.
📄 Driving Licence:
- EU/UK Licence: If you have a valid EU or UK driving licence, you can drive in Spain without additional paperwork.
- Non-EU Licence: If your licence is from outside the EU (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia), you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence.
🚗 Rental Car Requirements:
- Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with at least one year of driving experience. Some companies may charge an additional fee for drivers under 25.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is usually needed for a deposit.
🛂 ID & Insurance:
- You must carry your passport or national ID while driving.
- Rental cars must have compulsory insurance included, but check if you need extra cover for roadside assistance.
📝 Top Tip: If you’re a UK driver, be aware that some police officers might request a paper copy of your licence rather than just the photocard.
2. Speed Limits & Road Signs
Speed limits in Mallorca are strictly enforced, with speed cameras in various locations. Always watch for signs indicating changes in speed limits.
🚦 Standard Speed Limits in Spain:
- Motorways (Autopistas): 120 km/h (74 mph)
- Dual Carriageways (Autovías): 100 km/h (62 mph)
- Rural Roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
- Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Residential & School Zones: 30 km/h (19 mph)
🚓 Speed Cameras & Fines:
- Speed cameras operate across Mallorca, and fines are automatically sent to rental companies, which will then charge your credit card.
- Police also use mobile speed traps, so don’t risk exceeding limits.
🛑 Road Signs to Know:
- “Ceda el Paso” = Give way
- “Stop” = Stop (same as in English)
- “Salida” = Exit
- “Prohibido Estacionar” = No parking
- “Radar” = Speed camera ahead
📝 Top Tip: Unlike in some countries, Spanish speed limits are strictly enforced, and even minor infractions can result in hefty fines.
3. Roundabouts & Right of Way
Mallorca has many roundabouts, and if you’re not used to them, they can be confusing.
🛑 Roundabout Rules:
- Vehicles already on the roundabout have priority over those entering.
- Use indicators when exiting (not when entering).
- In a two-lane roundabout, the inside lane is for passing or continuing around, while the outside lane is for exiting.
🚦 Right of Way on Roads:
- Vehicles on the right have priority, unless signs indicate otherwise.
- Pedestrians always have right of way at zebra crossings.
📝 Top Tip: If you’re unsure, slow down and observe how locals navigate roundabouts before diving in.
4. Parking Rules & Restrictions
Finding parking in popular areas like Palma, Valldemossa, and Sóller can be challenging, especially in peak season.
🅿️ Parking Zones in Mallorca:
- Blue Zones (Zona Azul): Paid parking (look for nearby ticket machines).
- Yellow Lines: No parking allowed.
- White Lines: Free parking.
- Green Zones: Reserved for residents.
🚘 Other Parking Rules:
- Parking on curbs or sidewalks is illegal and can result in fines or towing.
- Many towns have designated car parks—it’s often easier to park outside the centre and walk in.
- Underground car parks are available in Palma and tourist hotspots.
📝 Top Tip: Some rental cars come with a P (Parquímetro) card—check with your provider to see if you can park in Blue Zones without paying extra.
5. Alcohol Limits & Driving Offences
Spain has strict drink-driving laws, and police conduct random breath tests—even in the mornings after nightlife-heavy areas like Magaluf.
🍷 Legal Blood Alcohol Limits:
- Standard drivers: 0.5 g/L (about one small beer or glass of wine)
- New drivers (under 2 years of experience): 0.3 g/L
🚔 Fines & Penalties:
- Exceeding the limit can result in fines up to €1,000, licence suspension, or even a driving ban.
- Refusing a breath test is a serious offence with heavy fines.
📝 Top Tip: Zero alcohol is the safest option. Even one drink can put you close to the limit.
6. Mobile Phones, Headphones & Other Restrictions
📱 Phone Use While Driving:
- Using a mobile phone without hands-free is illegal (even at traffic lights).
- Fines can reach €200 for holding a phone while driving.
🎧 Headphones:
- Driving with earphones or headphones is illegal, even if they’re only in one ear.
🚬 Smoking & Eating:
- Though not outright illegal, smoking or eating while driving can lead to fines if police deem it as “distracted driving”.
📝 Top Tip: If you need to use your phone for navigation, mount it on a hands-free holder before setting off.
7. Emergency Procedures & Roadside Assistance
🚨 Breakdowns & Accidents:
- Emergency Number: 112 (works across Europe).
- Reflective Vest & Warning Triangle: If your car breaks down, you must wear a reflective vest and place a warning triangle behind the car.
- Rental Car Assistance: Most rental companies provide roadside assistance—check your contract for details.
📝 Top Tip: Many Spanish drivers carry two warning triangles—one for the front and one for the back of the car in case of an accident.
Final Thoughts: Drive Smart & Stay Safe in Mallorca
Driving in Mallorca is a fantastic way to explore the island, but knowing the local rules and road customs can save you from stress, fines, or accidents.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Carry your licence, passport, and rental car documents at all times.
✅ Stick to speed limits—Mallorca has many speed cameras.
✅ Roundabouts give priority to vehicles already inside.
✅ Don’t drink and drive—Spain has strict alcohol laws.
✅ Use hands-free only for phone calls and never wear headphones.
✅ Watch out for parking restrictions—especially in Blue Zones.
✅ In case of an accident, call 112 and wear a reflective vest.
🚗 Ready to explore Mallorca by car?
Book your hassle-free rental today and enjoy a smooth, stress-free drive around the island!