Exchanging Your License
Everything you need to know: requirements, deadlines, and documentation for new residents.
PROCEDURES IN ANDORRA
Guide to Exchanging and Obtaining Your Driver’s License in Andorra
If you’re moving to Andorra, one of the most important procedures is exchanging your driver’s license. We explain all the requirements, deadlines, and the step-by-step process for 2025.
🚨 Is it mandatory to exchange your driver’s license?
Yes, it is a completely mandatory procedure for all new residents in Andorra. Andorran law sets a deadline to exchange your foreign driver’s license for an Andorran one.
You have one year from obtaining your residency permit to exchange your license. After this period, your original permit will no longer be valid for driving in the Principality, and you will be subject to penalties.
This process, known as “canje” (exchange), involves surrendering your original license to the Andorran authorities, who in return will issue you an equivalent Andorran driver’s license.
📋 Essential Requirements for the Exchange
Before starting the process, make sure you meet these three fundamental conditions. They are the basis for your application to be accepted without any issues.
1. Legal Residency in Andorra
The license exchange is linked to your status as a resident.
- ✓You must hold a valid Andorran residency and immigration permit.
- ✓The process can only be started once you have your physical residency card.
2. Valid Driver’s License
Your current license must be in good standing.
- ✓The permit must be valid (not expired).
- ✓It cannot be suspended, revoked, or restricted in its country of origin.
- ✓You obtained it before getting your first residency in Andorra.
3. Country with Agreement
Andorra must have an exchange agreement with the country that issued your license.
- ✓Countries with an agreement: Spain, France, Portugal, and most countries in the European Union and European Economic Area.
- ✗Countries without an agreement: United Kingdom, USA, Canada, most of Latin America.
🔢 Step-by-step exchange process
The process is relatively simple if you have all the documents in order. It is done at the Department of Procedures of the Government of Andorra or at the Automòbil Club d’Andorra.
- 1Gather the documentation
Prepare all the necessary papers: the application form, your original driver’s license, the residency certificate, a recent passport photo, and a sworn statement that your license is valid.
- 2Obtain the medical certificate
You must pass a medical fitness test. This “Official Medical Certificate” is issued by a registered doctor in Andorra and is valid for 3 months. The cost is usually around €30-€40.
- 3Submit the application and pay the fees
Go to the “Tràmit” offices with all the documentation. You will have to pay the corresponding fee for the procedure, which is currently around €70. They will verify the authenticity of your license with the authorities in your home country.
- 4Collect your new Andorran license
Once the process is complete (it usually takes a few weeks), you will be notified to pick up your new Andorran driver’s license. At this point, you will have to surrender your original license, which will be returned to the authorities of your country.
⚠️ Special Cases and Important Considerations
Beyond the standard process, there are specific situations that are crucial to consider to avoid surprises or delays in your procedures.
Professional Licenses (C, D)
If you have licenses to drive trucks (C) or buses (D), the exchange is possible but may require additional steps.
- ✓The exchange of B, A1, A, etc., licenses is usually direct.
- ✓For categories C and D, Andorran authorities may require you to pass a specific practical test in Andorra to confirm your aptitude, even if you come from a country with an agreement.
License About to Expire
You cannot exchange an expired license. If your permit has little time left before it expires, act in advance.
- ✓Key recommendation: Renew your license in your country of origin before starting the exchange process in Andorra.
- ✓Attempting the exchange with a license that is about to expire can cause the process to drag on and your permit to expire mid-process, halting everything.
The Role of the Automòbil Club (ACA)
The Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) can be a great ally in this process.
- ✓The ACA is authorized to manage the exchange process on your behalf.
- ✓Although it has an additional management fee, it can simplify the process, especially if you don’t have much time. It is an alternative to doing it directly at the Government’s “Tràmit” offices.
🤔 What if my license cannot be exchanged?
If your driver’s license was issued by a country that does not have an exchange agreement with Andorra (for example, the United Kingdom, United States, Mexico, Argentina, etc.), you will not be able to exchange it directly.
In this case, you will have to obtain a new Andorran driver’s license from scratch. This involves enrolling in a driving school in the country and passing both the written and practical exams, as if you were a new driver. However, your previous experience will greatly facilitate the process.
💰 Costs: Exchanging vs. Getting a New License
Understanding the costs is essential. Here is an approximate breakdown so you can plan your budget according to your situation.
Cost of Exchange
- Government of Andorra Fee~ €70
- Official Medical Certificate~ €40
- Management (Optional – ACA/Agency)€50 – €100
Cost of New License (from scratch)
- Driving School Enrollment + Theory~ €300
- Practical Lessons (10 lessons)~ €450
- Exam Fees (Written and Practical)~ €100
🚗 Getting a New Driver’s License in Andorra
Whether you are a new driver or your license cannot be exchanged, the process for obtaining an Andorran license is as follows:
Driving School
Enrollment and theory classes.
Written Exam
Multiple-choice test on regulations.
Practical Lessons
Driving practice on a closed course and public roads.
Practical Exam
Final driving test.
Main Types of Driver’s Licenses
The permit system in Andorra is similar to the European one. The most common are:
| Category | Vehicle | Minimum Age |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW. | 16 years |
| A2 | Motorcycles up to 35 kW. | 18 years |
| A | Any motorcycle (requires 2 years of experience with A2). | 20 years |
| B | Cars up to 3,500 kg and 9 seats. | 18 years |