How to pay reduced fines for traffic violations in Spain
There are a number of ways that motorists in Spain can cut down on the cost of traffic infractions
It is the dread of every driver in Spain to receive a traffic fine, since they can range from 100 euros for a minor infraction to 500 euros for a more serious one, and even rocket up to 20,000 euros for the most severe offences.
There are many vital considerations for drivers to keep in mind in this situation, not least of which is identifying the issuing body, since traffic fines can be doled out by the autonomous community or city council in which the offence was committed, and the funds must be paid directly to the authority which issued the sanction.
DGT traffic fines
It’s really useful to know that the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) offers motorists 20 calendar days from the time when the fine is issued to pay up, during which period a discount of up to 50% can be applied.
This can save drivers a significant amount of cash, but it does carry a big risk: if a motorist considers the sanction unjustified and chooses to appeal, the right to this reduction is lost and the full amount will be owed if the appeal is lost.
DGT fines cannot be spread over a repayment period and must always be paid in full.
Once these 20 days of the reduced payment option have passed, the ordinary period begins, which lasts up to 45 days after receiving the fine, and 100% of the penalty must be paid.
Once this period has elapsed, the sanction will pass to the State Tax Administration Agency, which will be in charge of collecting it with a 20% surcharge.
4 ways to pay a discounted DGT fine
If the driver is still within the 20-day period, the fine can be paid in several ways. Electronic payment of fines is a commission-free service. However, if the payment is made at a Post Office, an additional fee of 2.25 euros plus 1.5% of the amount of the fine applies.
The person paying does not have to be the person who committed the offense.
1. Online
Paying online is the quickest and easiest option, but the driver must have either the QR code on the actual fine or know specifically the date the sanction was issued.
On the DGT website, motorists must enter the amount of the fine (not including the 50% deduction) and their details will be shown.
2. By phone
Drivers can pay their fines by credit or debit card by calling the 060 number, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If abroad, the payment line can be reached on +34 902 887 060.
3. Through the miDGT app, DGT mobile or tablet app
Drivers can download any of the above platforms, which are free for both Android and iOS users, and pay their fines quickly.
To pay a fine from the app, drivers must go to the main menu of the application and enter the section 'My fines' -> 'Pending'.
4. In person
At Caixabank branches and ATMs: The hours are from Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 2pm, by card or cash.
At any Post Office, by card or cash, paying an additional fee of 2.25 euros plus 1.5% of the amount of the fine.
At any Headquarters or Traffic Office, by credit or debit card. Remember that the DGT does not accept payment in cash at their offices.
Finally, motorists who are pulled over by officers of the Guardia Civil are only allowed to pay the fine then and there by debit or credit cards if they want to take advantage of the 50% discount.
Image: Archive
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