Driving in Mallorca – Rules, Parking & Tips
Driving in Mallorca can be a joy: winding mountain roads, scenic coastal drives, and the freedom to explore hidden villages at your own pace. But whether you’ve just moved here, are learning to drive locally, or plan to rent a car on holiday, it’s worth knowing the rules and a few local quirks.
📌 Quick Guide to Driving in Mallorca
| Feature | Details |
| 🚗 Driving Side | Right-hand side (like mainland Spain) |
| 📜 Licence | EU/EEA accepted, others need an IDP |
| ⏱️ Speed Limits | 120 motorway, 100 dual carriageway, 90 rural, 30–50 in towns |
| 🅿️ Parking | White = free, Blue = paid, Yellow = prohibited |
| 🍷 Alcohol Limit | 0.5 g/L blood (lower for new/professional drivers) |
| 📞 Emergencies | Dial 112 |
🛣️ Driving Rules You Need to Know
- Always drive on the right-hand side.
- Seat belts are mandatory for everyone. Children under 135 cm must use a child seat.
- Speed limits vary: 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h dual carriageways, 90 km/h on rural roads, 50 km/h in towns (and sometimes 30 km/h in Palma zones).
- Licences: EU/EEA licences are valid. For other countries, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- New drivers must display a green “L” plate for one year.
🔗 Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) – Official Driving Regulations in Spain
🅿️ Parking in Mallorca
- White lines: Free parking (sometimes with time limits).
- Blue zones: Paid parking — buy a ticket from the meter.
- Yellow lines: Strictly no parking — fines or towing are common.
- Look out for “VADO” signs in Palma — they mark private driveways and are enforced.
👉 Palma can be tough for parking in high season — use public car parks in the centre or plan to walk.
🔗 Ajuntament de Palma – Parking Information
🍷 Alcohol Limits in Mallorca
- General drivers: 0.5 g/L in blood or 0.25 mg/L in breath.
- Novice & professional drivers (under 2 years’ licence, taxis, buses, trucks): 0.3 g/L in blood or 0.15 mg/L in breath.
- Zero tolerance: For under-18s, bus drivers, and those transporting dangerous goods.
- Enforcement: Police carry out breath tests if you’re in an accident, break a traffic rule, or are suspected of drinking.
- Penalties: Fines up to €1,000, licence points deducted, and in severe cases, imprisonment.
👉 Best advice: don’t drink and drive. Mallorca’s police are strict, and taxis or ride apps are widely available.
🔗 Spain.info – Driving Regulations
🌿 Cultural Context & Fun Facts
Driving in Mallorca isn’t just practical — it’s cultural. Locals often prefer small cars to navigate narrow village streets. Roundabouts can be “creative,” with drivers exiting unexpectedly, so patience goes a long way.
Fun fact: Until 2007, Mallorca had a toll tunnel on the Sóller road — but it’s now free, making the scenic mountain drive open to everyone.
🔗 RAC – Driving in Spain: Advice for Visitors
🚗 Car Rental in Mallorca
The easiest way to explore the island is still by car. Rentals are widely available at Palma Airport and across major resorts. Prices vary by season, and most companies require drivers to be 21+ (sometimes 25+ without surcharge).
👉 Or compare options in our Car Rental Mallorca Guide
🚨 New Safety Rule for 2026
From 2026, Spain will phase out the traditional reflective warning triangles. Instead, all cars must carry emergency warning lights (V16 beacons) that are placed on the roof and visible up to 1 km away.
This change is designed to improve roadside safety and reduce accidents caused when drivers step out of their vehicles.
🔗 Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) – V16 Light Beacons Regulation
❓ FAQ
Is it safe to drive in Mallorca?
Yes. Roads are well-maintained, signage is clear, and emergency assistance is reliable via 112.
Do I need a special licence?
EU/EEA licences are valid. For others, check if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Are there toll roads?
No — Mallorca has no toll roads.
What’s the alcohol limit?
0.5 g/L in blood for regular drivers, stricter for new/professional drivers, zero for under 18.
🔗 European Commission – Driving in Spain
🔗 Internal Links
