The driving laws that govern Mainland Spain apply throughout the Canary Islands, including Lanzarote and hiring a car gives you the freedom to discover this fascinating island at your own pace.

Tips for driving in Lanzarote

• Drive on the right
• Do not throw litter out of the car window
• Do not drink and drive - Spain has tough drink driving regulations
• Seat belts must be worn, front and rear
• Children should have an appropriate car seat and children under 12 years are not allowed to ride in the front
• Always carry your driving license (EC pink/green versions) and your passport to confirm your identity. If you have an old style green license (or non European version) you will also need to carry an International Driving License.  It is advisable to carry your rental agreement also as proof of insurance.
• If you wear glasses, you must carry a spare pair with you whilst driving
• Using a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal, unless it is a hands-free set.  You should not have anything in your ears (for listening to music or using your phone) other than a hearing aid.
• Traffic coming from the right has priority.  However, where a minor road intersects a main road, the traffic on the main road has right of way (even if you do not see a “Ceda El Paso” sign).  Traffic already on a roundabout also has right of way.
• Watch your speed - radar traps are commonplace and can carry on-the-spot fines.  If you are not able to pay the fine on-the-spot, you may be arrested or your car impounded.
• Carrying a radar detector in your car is illegal
• If you break down anywhere in Spain, you should put on a bright reflective vest before getting out of your car to seek help
• Headlights should be used during the day if there is poor visibility
• Headlights should always be used through tunnels.
• When turning left (across the oncoming traffic), you must often first turn right and follow a filter lane round, crossing the traffic via traffic lights or over/underpass.  These types of turn are usually signposted ahead of the junction (“Cambio de Sentido”)
• Parking regulations are strictly enforced and offenders can be heavily fined or towed.  Do not park where the pavement curb is painted yellow or white or if there is a no parking sign. Most towns have dedicated car parks for supermarkets and shoppers - often underground.  Blue lines indicate a “Zona Azul” areas where you need a sticker to park (from a machine or attendant).  You will notice that some Spanish still park wherever they can find a gap (sometimes around roundabouts or two abreast!) but do not be tempted to follow suit - parking regulations have been toughened and you may find yourself towed.
• Be aware that the automatic petrol pumps (“pay at pump”) do not always accept international credit cards.

Read more about driving in Spain