Spain is perfect for driving holidays. Despite being a modern European country with forty million inhabitants, you can sometimes get the impression you’re in New Mexico whilst driving down some of the more way-out highways. But as well as Spaghetti Western backdrops (Andalucía and Almeria) there are plenty of built up areas too, such as Madrid and Barcelona. With this in mind, once you’ve got your annual breakdown cover for Europe organised with startrescue.co.uk, it’s time to brush up on the Spanish traffic regulations.

As with many other European countries, Spain shares a large number of requirements with its European cousins. However, there are a few areas of exception. Under 12s are not permitted to travel in the front seat unless a restraint system is in place. And passengers under the 135cm mark must also sit in a restraint system if sitting in the rear. If you wear glasses, you are required by law to carry another pair with you in the car. You must also carry a warning triangle, high visibility vests and a replacement headlamp bulb in case of breakdown.

In other respects, you should make sure you know the speed limits (kilometres not miles) for built-up areas and other grades of road and highway before you set off. While Spain shares a great deal in common with its Italian cousins, you will find drivers in Spain are a little more restrained with their use of the horn and generally more polite.

With such a fantastic and well equipped tourist infrastructure, a driving holiday in Spain is a very easy, enjoyable affair. Add to this majestic mountains, sandy beaches and delicious food in every region, and you’re sure to have a very memorable time.

Please note: the above is not a comprehensive list of Spanish traffic regulations