Description
Sworn translation of driver’s license
A sworn translation of a driver’s license is required for many legal, administrative and international mobility procedures both in Spain and abroad.
At iDISC, this service is carried out exclusively by sworn translators-interpreters appointed by Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAEC), ensuring that the translation has full official validity before public administrations, traffic authorities, embassies, consulates, companies and international organizations.
This type of translation is called sworn translation, official translation or certified translation.
What is a driver’s license?
A driver’s license (driving permit) is an official document issued in Spain by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) or by the equivalent competent authority in other countries.
It certifies that a person is authorized to drive specific types of vehicles and contains information such as name and surname of the holder, photograph, license number, authorized vehicle categories, place of issue, dates of issue and expiration.
In addition to being an essential document for driving, in many countries a driver’s license also functions as a secondary form of identification, which is why its translation may be required in various contexts.
When do you need a sworn translation of your driver’s license?
A sworn translation of a driver’s license is commonly required in the following situations:
- Exchange or validation of a driver’s license abroad: when relocating to another country, many authorities require an official translation of your license in order to issue a local one.
- Immigration and visa procedures: in certain residence, work permit, or international mobility processes, immigration authorities may require a sworn translation as part of the personal documentation.
- Studies or long-term stays abroad: universities or institutions may request it if the student plans to drive in the destination country.
- International employment: employers may request a sworn translation to verify the employee’s capacity to drive, especially in roles where driving is required.
- Identity validation in international procedures: such as opening bank accounts, signing contracts or administrative formalities outside Spain.
- Use in Spain of a driver’s license issued in another country: when foreign license must be translated into Spanish for procedures before the DGT, insurance companies, notaries or other bodies.
Apostille and legalization
In some cases, the original document may require one of the following:
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A Hague Apostille, if it is to be used country that is a party to the Hague Convention.
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Consular legalization, if the country is not party to the Convention.
The apostille is affixed to the license or to the official certificate that accompanies it, never to the translation. If the permit is accompanied by a certificate issued by the corresponding traffic authority, this certificate is usually the document that is apostilled. We can also provide a sworn translation of the apostille, if required. We will advise you on whether your case requires an apostille and how to manage it.
Commitment to quality
At iDISC, we are committed to delivering high-quality sworn translations. Our translations are carried out by experienced sworn translators, ensuring full compliance with the highest standards of accuracy and formality. Each translation is carefully reviewed to ensure that all information is accurate and correctly reflected, giving our clients peace of mind in every procedure they undertake.
If you need a certified translation of your driver’s license, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help facilitate your legal, academic, and immigration procedures, ensuring that your documents are fully compliant and ready to be submitted to any authority.
