1

Getting Your Spanish Driver’s License Over Sixty-Five

October 3, 2022 (updated January 27, 2023) Published by LGC

Everything you need to know about the driving license for people over the age of 65.

Are you 65 or older and wish to receive your driver’s license? Or, on the other hand, you want to renew it but don’t know when your license will expire? Do you need particular medical standards and the same expenses for license renewal?

Spanish Driving License Above The Age Of 65

If you are 65 or older, one piece of good news is that there is no age limit for driving in Spain. However, in order to obtain and renew a driver’s license, you must be physically and mentally fit, as well as possess the requisite driving skills (regardless of age).

Although holding a driver’s license and being able to drive your vehicle does not depend on your age as much as it does on your physical abilities and driving skills, when you reach the age of 65, you will face a number of challenges when obtaining and renewing your license.

Below, we will examine all you need to know about the driving license for adults 65 and older, including license renewal periods, required medical examinations, how to arrange an appointment, and the unique characteristics of each type of car and license.

How Often Renew Spanish Driver’s License Over 65?

As stated at the beginning, there is no age limit in Spain for driving a car on the country’s roads, but age does not exempt the driver from having to meet a set of conditions that differ from those that must be satisfied by another person under the age of 65.

The maximum periods of validity for renewing driving licenses are one of the different requirements to be met if you are 65 years old or older.

The DGT plans to enhance the frequency of the driver’s medical check-ups, as well as his driving skills, using this measure to ensure that the experienced driver possesses the required attributes to drive and offer safety for himself and others.

As a result, whereas drivers of conventional passenger automobiles under the age of 65 have a 10-year driving license validity term, this period is cut in half when they reach the age of 65 or older.

The following are the maximum validity periods for drivers over the age of 65, depending on the type of license you have:

License Renewal is Valid for 5 years:

For vehicle, motorbike, and motorcycle licenses (AM, A1, A2, A, B), as well as all driver’s licenses, medical and driving skills examinations will be performed.

License Renewal is Valid for Three Years:

If the license categories include professional licenses such as bus and truck, medical and aptitude checks will be more frequent for those aged 65 and up (C, C1, D, D1, EC, EC1, ED, ED1, etc.).
What form of medical examination must you pass to renew your driver’s license if you are 65 or older?

If you are 65 or older, you do not need to worry about passing specific medical tests because of your age, because in Spain, the medical examination that all persons must pass, as well as the criteria that are examined, are the same for any driver, regardless of age.

Spanish Drivers License Over the Age of 65

As previously stated, once you reach the age of 65, the validity periods of driving licenses are reduced, and if an illness or problem that impairs driving skills is discovered during the medical examination, it will not necessarily prevent the renewal of the driving license, but it may be aggravated, and thus the period of validity of the license may become even shorter.

The payment of driving license renewal fees will also be reduced in this situation.

If you are 70 or older, you will be fully free from paying traffic fines while renewing your driver’s license; you will only have to pay for the medical examination.

What steps must you take to renew your driver’s license if you are above the age of 65?
Don’t be concerned about renewing your driver’s license if you are 65 or older. All of the documentation is the same as for any other renewal, regardless of the driver’s age.

To Renew your License, Do the Following:

You must go to an Authorized Driver Recognition Center and specify that you want to renew your driver’s license. You can complete your renewal in one of these centers. Once there, you will be photographed and paid for all medical and traffic fees (you will be exempt from paying any fees if you are 70 years of age or older). After passing the medical exam and paying the necessary costs, you will be issued a provisional driver’s license.

Enjoy!

Walks And Hikes Around Moraira

July 19, 2022 (updated September 16, 2022) Published by LGC

Ruta De Los Acantilados

The Route of the Cliffs is a short trail off the coast of Benitachell that leads from Cala Moraig to Cala Llebeig and back again. The total distance of the trail is four kilometers. Walking is the only option for getting to Cala Llebeig (or sea). The walk provides stunning 360-degree views of the coastline and the vegetation typical of the Mediterranean region. Caves that were used by fishermen centuries ago can still be visited today. The Route of the Cliffs is a short trail off the coast of Benitachell that leads from Cala Moraig to Cala Llebeig and back again. The total distance of the trail is four kilometers. Walking is the only option for getting to Cala Llebeig (or sea). The walk provides stunning 360-degree views of the coastline and the vegetation typical of the Mediterranean region. Caves that were used by fishermen centuries ago can still be visited today. Due to the fact that it follows a cliff and has some hazardous sections, this hike is not appropriate for people of all ages or physical states (slippery).

La Cala Beach

A walk to the beach of Moraig de Benitachell from El Portet in Benitachell. The distance is roughly four kilometers, and the time required to complete it is approximately three hours. 15 minutes total, including travel time. This route takes travelers through one of the most picturesque and eye-catching parts of the surrounding countryside before terminating at La Cala Beach. In Moraira, the Cami de la Viuda is the road that you will pass on your way to the beach of El Portet. The walking tour will begin at this point. Keep going uphill in the direction of Calle Canario; the path will be signposted after that. You are getting close to one of the last areas that preserves a significant portion of the coastline of the Mediterranean, and it features a grove of white pines or oaks, esparto grass, palmito, kermes oak, rosemary, and lavender, amongst other plant species. There is a profusion of a wide variety of wildflowers during the springtime.

Castellons

In Teulada, if you take the street called Calle Calvo Sotelo, you will end up on the road called Castellons. Along this path, you will find the windmill known as Moli dels Castellons, which is the only one that still stands out of the five that were in operation during the 19th century. The panoramic views from this mill are truly breathtaking.

La Font L’horta

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the region’s iconic mansions as well as farms. From Plaza Jaume I square in Teulada you take Calle Benarrisc. You can find the beginning of the river path that will lead you to the Font de I’Horta along the river bed just downstream from here. A natural spring can be found here, and the surrounding area is very peaceful. You can reach the Cami del Pouet de Moro road by traveling along the Cami del Boticari road. Following the road that leads from Teulada to Benimarco, you will continue on it until you reach the rural farmhouse that is located between Benissa and Teulada.

Font Santa

Following the Cami de la Sisca road from Teulada, you will find the Cami de Les Rotgetes road heading in the direction of Moraira. You will arrive at the Font de La Jana, a source where the original watering place has been preserved, after traveling along this peaceful route. You will arrive at the Font Santa, a place of pilgrimage, once you have crossed the track. This location owes its beginnings to a miracle that was performed by San Vicente Ferrer. A chapel that dates back to the 19th century can be found right next to the well.

Benimeit

From Teulada, you will follow the Cami del Pas road, either on foot or in a car. This is a pleasant route on which you can learn about the riurau’s that are typical of the La Marina Alta region. In addition, you will be able to observe the traditional construction of a terrace comprised of a vine and an almond tree here. On the street called Calle Benimarfull, you will be taken aback by one of the most breathtaking panoramic views that the area has to offer. You then proceed along Calle Beniganim street and Cami de Fanadix road, both of which provide excellent opportunities to take in the surrounding environment. In the end, you will find yourself in the creek of Cala Andrago, which leads out to the ocean.

Vall de les Sortes

A hiking trail that runs parallel to the Cami de La Camarrocha road, Calle Guadalajara, and the intersection of Calle Gerona can be found winding its way through this valley. This valley, which has been designated as a natural area preserve, is traversed by the road that connects Teulada and Moraira.

Walking About Javea

June 17, 2022 (updated June 17, 2022) Published by LGC

WALKING IN JAVEA

There is a lot more to Jávea than just the sea, the sun, and the sangria. The municipality provides plenty of opportunities for walkers of all ages and abilities, beginning with the enormous hulking mass of Montgó, which extends its protective arm into the sea, and ending with the wide open natural spaces of Granadella to the south. Both of these features are located in the municipality’s Granadella neighborhood. There are five approved routes, totaling over 45 kilometers of trails that open up the splendor of both the countryside and the coastline. These paths are ideal for taking a leisurely stroll in the afternoon along the sea cliffs or for making an intense, all-day ascent to the peak of a mountain. You might take a leisurely amble that winds through the orange trees that dot the plain, or you can go on an educational excursion through the twisting alleyways of the ancient center. There are also more strenuous strolls that can be taken to the castle of Granadella or to the famous windmills of La Plana, in addition to the amazing carved carverns of Cova Tallada. There are other tough scrambles that lead to the large open hollow that is often known as the “Eye of Montgó,” as well as the very summit of Montgó, which is almost 750 meters above sea level and dominates the town to the north.

Aitana, the highest mountain in the region at 1,559 meters, and the mysterious Barranco del Infierno, a popular hiking destination that is also known as “La Catedral del Senderismo” – the “Hiking Cathedral” – can be explored on the challenging PR CV-147, a 15 kilometer route that boasts some 6,000 steps carved by the Moorish population that once lived in the area.

THE AUTHORIZED HIKING TRAILS

The unique network of walking paths that Jávea has to offer is one of the very best ways to explore the stunning natural scenery and coastline that the city has to offer. There are walks suitable for people of all abilities, ranging from leisurely strolls along the headland of Cap Prim to strenuous ascents to the peak of Montgó, allowing visitors to take in the beautiful natural scenery of the region. The five trails, which were developed by the Department of Tourism, have a combined length of almost 45 kilometers and provide visitors with access to a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes, in addition to showcasing some of the architectural and cultural traditions of the area. A free guided service for these routes is provided by the council and is offered through the Tourist Office. Throughout the year, there are almost 30 different excursions available. This service also includes the well-known annual nighttime traverse across the mountain of Montgó. This unique outing begins at approximately midnight and typically concludes with breakfast and a refreshing swim in the sea afterward.

THE CHALLENGE OF THE MIRADOR

The Mirador Challenge is an endurance walk that covers a medium distance of around 29 kilometers and joins a network of 15 views located along the beautiful coastline of Jávea. The idea that led to the creation of the Mirador Challenge was, in the first place, to make this formal network of “miradors” accessible to a far larger number of people who, in any other circumstance, would be uninformed of their existence. The secondary objective was to design a timed endurance walk that would cover a wide variety of terrain and serve as a complementary activity to Jávea’s already impressive calendar of sporting and recreational events. The current record for the distance is 3 hours and 55 minutes, although the average time to complete the course is close to six hours.

GENTLE STROLLS ABOUT JAVEA

It is not necessary to be an experienced hiker in order to appreciate the splendor of the Jávea region because the city offers activities suitable for people of all skill levels. A leisurely stroll around the historic center of the town will allow you to see some of the most significant landmarks in the city, such as the fortress church of San Bartolomé and the path that was once followed by the old walls that protected the village from raiding pirates. The lovely valley has some hidden delights that are easily accessible to everyone, such as an ancient olive tree and the old wells of the ancient cattle tracks. In contrast, the level plateau of La Plana provides some incredible views across the region while also bringing walkers to the base of the path that leads to the top of Montgó.

ENERGETIC WANDERS ABOUT JAVEA

Jávea provides a lot of options for visitors to enjoy just a little bit more of the natural beauty that surrounds the city for those who are looking for a bit of excitement without having to exert too much effort. Granadella Castle’s ruins can be seen at the extremity of a promontory that guards the bay of the same name. This promontory is at the end of a spectacular walk that clings to steep cliffs and provides access to the cove. There is an exciting steep ascent to the cavity of Cova Ampla, also known as the “Eye of Montgó,” which is located on the northern flanks of the Cabo de San Antonio and can be reached using an exciting loop that also includes the old watchtower of Torre del Gerro. The amazing Cova Tallada can be found on the northern flanks of the Cabo de San Antonio and can be reached using this exciting loop. In addition, the town is characterized by the presence of windmills, which have become a local landmark.

THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE MONTGO

The mountain of Montgó, which stands at a height of 752 meters, is the second tallest peak that is located so near to the water in the entirety of the Mediterranean region. It towers dramatically over the valley bottoms that are located all around it and can be seen for miles around. Ibiza, a Balearic island, can be seen on the horizon to the east from the peak of this mountain, while the Peon de Ifach (also known as Calpe Rock), the Sierra Bernia, and the Morro de Toix can be seen to the south. The Col de Rates, the Sierra de Aitana, and the Val de Laguart can be found to the west of the city of Valencia, while the Gulf of Oliva and Cullera can be found to the north of the city. Both of these regions lead up to the city of Valencia. There are a number of routes that can be taken to reach the peak, and each one deserves the utmost respect, particularly during the more turbulent winter months.

Walking The Via Verde In Denia

June 10, 2022 (updated June 10, 2022) Published by LGC

Previously, the provinces of Alicante and Valencia both contained a significant network of train tracks that served to link the various towns and villages located within them. After the construction of newer and more advanced roads and highways, the majority of them were eventually eliminated. These railroads were left for unused for a number of years before being salvaged and repaired by the Ministry of Rural and Marine Environment so that they could be used as a Via Verde.

Denia’s Via Verde

This particular Via Verde in Dénia was modeled after the railroad that formerly connected Dénia with Gandia, which is located further to the north. It was a section of the Dénia-Carcaixent line at one point. This was the oldest narrow-track railroad on the Spanish-Portuguese peninsula, and they used it for transportation for the entirety of its 90-year existence. The original section of it was constructed in the late 1800s, and it initially served as a tram that was drawn by animals.

In 1884, they completed the extension of the steam-powered railway all the way to Dénia. This railroad was utilized by people mostly for agricultural purposes. In 1969, the section of the railway that ran between Gandia and Carcaixent was discontinued because it was being replaced by a brand-new and cutting-edge commuter train. The remaining section, which ran between Dénia and Gandia, was discontinued in 1974 with the expectation that it would likewise be repurposed as a wide-track railroad. This did not take place, and instead, this section became what is now known as the Via Verde of Dénia.

Walking The Via Verde

This walking route along the Via Verde in Dénia is almost entirely level and does not present any challenges at all. This path can be enjoyed on foot or by bicycle by people of all ages, including children. As a result of this condition, individuals who have limited mobility or who use a wheelchair are able to enjoy this road with relative ease as well. At the front entrance, there are two parking spots reserved exclusively for those with disabilities.

Features Of The Via Verde

The trail provides numerous opportunities to stop and take in the scenery at one of its many rest stops or viewpoints. They wanted to encourage extra workouts, so they set up specialized exercise equipment along the path. In addition to that, there are a number of wooden bridges that cross stunning valleys, one of which is a bridge that spans the Alberca River and is 18 meters long. It is possible to veer off the main path and travel further into the wilderness thanks to the proliferation of paved country roads. Some of them are going in the direction of the coast and the water.

The majority of the terrain that this road travels over is classified as agricultural. During this portion of our journey, we are surrounded by orange and almond trees in addition to vegetable fields. The dreamlike and picturesque vistas are finished off with the silhouettes of the mountains that may be seen in the Montgó Natural Park and the Sierra Segaria. The environment that exists along the riverbanks of the Alberca River is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Walking Around Altea

May 31, 2022 (updated June 2, 2022) Published by LGC

Taking a Stroll in Altea

The majority of people are familiar with the village of Altea because to the white chalked homes and the historic church that are perched on the hill and stare out over the Mediterranean. The historic district that surrounds this church has a laid-back and bohemian vibe and features a wide variety of shops, pubs, restaurants, and vistas. However, the countryside that surrounds this picture-perfect town has a lot of attractions, and the five distinct walking paths that are available will show you five different ways to get to know Altea and the intriguing environment that surrounds it. The beginning points of the first four courses are located close to the municipal sports facility and the red bridge. The beginning of the fifth path, on the other hand, may be found near the Altea port entrance.

How To Get to Altea

The AP-7 highway and the N-332 coastal road both provide access to Altea from the remainder of the Costa Blanca coast. This is true of the majority of the other towns along the coast as well. Within the town, there are a number of huge parking sites accessible.

Road 1: Ruta Verde, also known as the green route, which circumnavigates Altea.
When we begin our tour of Altea, we begin on the route that runs parallel to the historic Camino Real de la Mar and is also known as the Corredor Verde (the green corridor). This is where we begin our stroll. During your stroll, you will come across various interesting points of interest, like as the coastline of the Cap Negret Volcanic. Recent research conducted by scientists has shown that this region is older than 2.5 million years.

In addition, there are a number of mansions and bunkers that date back to the Spanish Civil War that can be seen along the coast. These structures are still in use today. These bunkers are a relic of the Spanish Civil War that took place during the 1930s. If you would want to take a break while you are on your vacation, you may do so at any one of the numerous chiringuitos that are available. They provide alcoholic beverages in addition to regional delicacies and dishes like paella and agua de Valencia. This path is accessible for those who have trouble moving about, and it may also be traveled on a bicycle or in a wheelchair.

Road 2: Ruta Roja, also known as the red route, which circumnavigates Altea.
By following this path, we will arrive at Altea la Vella after traveling down the Cami Fondo. It is thought that this is the original place where the town of Altea was built. In addition to paying a visit to Altea la Vella, you can also pay a visit to the Hermitage of Santa Barbara.

After that point, the trail will take you back through the Sogai region and eventually lead you to the Algar river. The natural regions, such as Font del Garroferet and the Algar River itself, are wonderful places to visit because of their stunning beauty.

Explore Altea on Foot

When there has been a significant amount of precipitation, the river is at its most magnificent. This trail has a moderate degree of difficulty and may be traversed on foot or by bicycle with relative ease. There is an alternate path leading in the direction of Cam Fondo that may be found at the Hermitage of Santa Barbara. This path is accessible to individuals with limited mobility.

Road 3: Ruta Azul, the blue route
Along the bed of the Algar River, we will follow this path as it leads us up the woodland trail on the river’s south bank. After passing through the little man-made lake located at the confluence of the Algar and Guadalest rivers, the trail will eventually lead back to Altea. This section of the path was once referred to as the old Cami de Mandem. Through traveling along this specific path, we get an understanding of how significant the Algar River has always been for the development of Altea.

Altea may be explored by foot.
This is shown by the fact that the world’s oldest flour mill, the Moli dels Moros, can be seen in ruins on the bank of the river. The Pi del Senyoret is the second-largest pine tree in the Valencian Community, and it astonishes visitors at first glance with its width of over 20 meters. The final segment of the route takes visitors through the charming L’Horta district, which is known for its traditional irrigation channels and the Sant Roc hermitage.

Orange Route (Ruta Naranja), sometimes known as Route 4

Following the establishment of Vila Nova d’Altea (also known as New Altea) in 1617, this road travels through the region that was subsequently repopulated. This path takes travelers through the area of Horta, which is home to both the hermitage of Sant Roc and the Pi del Senyoret. As well as the Barranquet neighborhood, which is presided over by the magnificent Sant Luis Hermitage.

The route then continues down the Cami Vell d’Alcoi, which was considered to be one of the most significant routes in the 17th century. You may also take the alternate path that goes over the Cami de la Lloma if you wish to avoid the hills.

Ruta Magenta, also known as Route 5, also known as the Purple Route
This path takes us on a stroll through the picturesque countryside of Altea, beginning at the entrance to the city’s port and ending at the port’s southernmost neighborhood. Hermitages named Sant Antoni and Sant Luis, as well as the ruins of a Roman aqueduct, are uncovered during our exploration. The last segment of the journey takes us through the neighborhood of El Planet before crossing over to the N-332 highway. From this point, we go back to Altea by following the coast back around the bay and the marina.

The Padrón (Certificado de Empadronamiento).

March 9, 2022 (updated January 27, 2023) Published by LGC

Padrón (Certificado de Empadronamiento).

The Empadronamiento, alternatively referred to as the Padrón Municipal de Habitantes, is a type of municipal register or census record, comparable to an electoral roll. To “empadronarse” on the Padrón is to register. By registering with the empadronamiento, a resident of a town is added to the list of local residents.

Anyone intending to remain in Spain for longer than six months each year must register with the Padrón Municipal de Habitantes. Individuals or families may register. To register, one must be ” empadronado.”

The Ayuntamiento (town hall) receives revenue for services such as policing, health centers, cleaning, and maintenance for each person registered in a municipality. The register is used to keep track of how many people (legal or otherwise) reside in a community.

Why you should consider purchasing a Padrón.

By registering on the Padrón Municipal, the registrant establishes their status as an official member of the community and certifies their presence in Spain, which is advantageous in a variety of situations.

Foreigners without valid documentation (expired visa or no passport) must also register; no penalties are imposed, and no legal residency certificates are made available. The Certificado de Empadronamiento is a completely distinct administrative process from the application for residency.

The Certificado de Empadronamiento is used differently in each administrative region. It is required in Madrid, Andalucia, and Valencia (among other places) to carry out a variety of tasks. This is not the case in all regions of Spain.

The Padrón may be necessary in order to accomplish the following:

Purchase or sell a vehicle
Enroll a child in a school
Submit an application for the NIE (Numero de Identification de Extranjeros)
Submit an application for residency (Residencia)
Marry
Cast your vote
Submit an application for a local health insurance card.

The Empadronmiento must be registered in person at the town hall or neighborhood administrative office in the majority of communities (Junta Municipal). Online registration is available in some places.

The following documents are necessary to register a Padron:

A duly filled application (available at the office where registration is being made)
Identification in the form of a passport and a photocopy; if enrolling as a family, identification is required for each member.
Address proof, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or a copy of the property title deeds (escritura)

If the tenant is not identified on the rental contract, they must also furnish the following:

A completed Autorización de Empadronamiento (available from the town hall), which requires the individual holding the rental agreement to be registered on the Padrón Municipal as well.
A photocopy of the leaseholder’s government-issued identification.

In some places, the local police will confirm the address by paying a visit to the residence.

Normally, on the day of application, a Volante de Empadronamiento is issued. This is a temporary version of the Empadronamiento Certificado that is acceptable for official reasons. Certain localities impose a minor cost for granting the Empadronamiento Volante.

To be regarded a valid proof of address, the Certificado de Empadronamiento must have been granted within the previous three months (and is generally only required for national or foreign bureaucracy). At any time, the Ayuntamiento can issue a current Certificado de Empadronamiento (for example to buy a car or apply for the NIE).

The Empadronamiento is being renewed.

Non-EU nationals without a permanent residence visa must renew their Empadronamiento registration every two years. EU citizens residing in Spain on a permanent basis should renew their registration every five years (as must Spanish nationals who are resident in Spain). Although some regions send renewal reminders, this is not usual; it is the individual’s obligation to renew their registration on time.

Births, deaths, and address changes

A change in status (birth, marriage, relocation) must be reported to the Municipality of Padrón.

When relocating within the same community, the Padrón Municipality must be notified.
If you relocate to a different municipality, you must redo the registration process. The current community should notify the previous community of the change once it is registered.
When leaving Spain, it is necessary to notify the town hall or Junta Municipal in order for the Padrón to be updated.

Author: LGC