Driving in Gran Canaria

The driving laws for Gran Canaria are the same as in all Spanish territories. Theoretically, you require an international driver’s licence to hire a car in the Canary Islands. However, in practice you can make a rental with a standard valid driving licence, passport/ID card and a valid credit card.

The speed limit on motorways is 120 km/h, while in towns and cities it’s 50 km/h, unless otherwise indicated. Parking is prohibited on white or yellow lines and blue lines indicate a restricted parking area where you must purchase a ticket from a pay-and-display machine.

Breath tests are carried out randomly and non-residents may be subject to on-the-spot fines. Crash helmets are required when riding motorcycles or mopeds and the use of headphones or mobile phones when driving is strictly forbidden.

In Gran Canaria they drive on the right-hand side of the road with steering wheels fitted on the left side of the car. The use of seatbelts is compulsory. Children under the age of 12 may not travel in the front seats of the vehicle.

Driving in the mountains can be a challenge with winding roads and narrow bends demanding the utmost concentration, so make sure to plan enough time for your journey. The only fast roads on the island are the GC1 motorway from Las Palmas to Arguineguín and the GC2 from Las Palmas to Agaete.

Seat Belts. Seat belts must be worn at all times and the blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.015% for drivers who’ve acquired their licence in the past five years). Breath tests are carried out randomly and non-residents are subject to on-the-spot fines.