What to bring to the DGT theory exam (and what to leave at home) 🎒
Quick answer: On theory-exam day the only essential item is your original, valid ID: DNI, NIE or passport (non-EU nationals: valid residence permit). The prerequisites — minimum age, medical certificate and paid fee — must be sorted earlier, when registering. Phones, smartwatches and earphones are banned during the test.
Updated: 17/08/2026 · Sources: DGT, BOE and current regulations
Exam-day checklist
- ✅ Original, valid DNI, NIE or passport (a photocopy is not accepted).
- ✅ Session confirmation if your driving school gave you one (or your independent-application receipt).
- ✅ Arrive 15–20 minutes early: roll call is punctual and without ID you don't get in.
- ❌ Phone off and stored away, no smartwatch, no earphones, no notes.
Requirements to meet before sitting the exam
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | B: 18 (theory can be taken from 17 in certain cases) · AM: 15 · A1: 16 · A2: 18 |
| Residence | Normal residence in Spain (at least 185 days a year) or proven ties |
| Medical certificate | Fitness report from an authorised Recognition Centre (valid 90 days for the application) |
| Fee | €94.05 paid (includes 2 attempts) |
| Not banned | Declaration that you are not deprived of the right to drive |
What the exam room is like
The theory test is computer-based at most offices: touch screen, 30 questions, 30 minutes, and you can flag questions and return to them before finishing. On the welcome screen you choose the language (Spanish, co-official, English, French or German — see our guide to the DGT exam in English). Results come out the same afternoon from 17:00 (how to check your grade).
Tips to arrive ready
More than the checklist, what decides a pass is arriving with a margin: the safe benchmark is stringing together mock exams at 90% or above. Practise in real exam mode — 30 questions, 30 minutes, no aids — with TraficoTest's free tests in English and review weak topics in the illustrated theory before booking a date.
Frequently asked questions
What document do I need on theory-exam day?
Your original, valid DNI, NIE or passport. Non-EU nationals: a valid residence permit. Photocopies are not accepted.
Can I bring my phone to the DGT exam?
Only switched off and stored away. Using it — or a smartwatch or earphones — means expulsion and a fail.
Do I need the medical certificate on exam day?
No: the medical certificate is submitted earlier, with the application. On test day only your ID is needed.
What if I arrive late to the exam?
Arriving after the room closes means losing that attempt. Arrive 15–20 minutes early.
