Stop signSpain
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Spain. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
Traffic rules
Spain
13. Stop sign
A stop sign requires drivers to bring their vehicle to a complete stop and give way before entering or crossing the road ahead. The stop must be made at the stop line or another legally prescribed position.
After stopping, the driver may continue only when this can be done safely and without interfering with traffic that has priority. The sign does not create priority for the driver who has stopped.
Wikimedia.org • Joanbanjo • CC BY-SA
Must I stop completely at a stop sign in Spain?
Yes. Come to a complete stop when the applicable stop sign controls your approach, even when you cannot see another road user. Slowing to a crawl is not a stop. The stopping duty is separate from the duty to give way before continuing.
🔗 boe.es • General Traffic Regulation articles 56,58,132; catalogue R-2 and stop-line rules
Where must I stop at a stop-controlled junction in Spain?
Stop before the next stop line or, without a line, immediately before the junction. If exceptional circumstances leave insufficient visibility at that first stop, the Spanish rule requires a further stop where you can see, without endangering anyone.
🔗 boe.es • General Traffic Regulation articles 56,58,132; catalogue R-2 and stop-line rules
Does stopping first give me priority at a stop sign in Spain?
A complete stop does not, by itself, give you priority. Give way to the road users entitled to pass under the junction’s signs and rules, check pedestrians and cyclists, and proceed only when the gap is safe. Do not follow another stopped vehicle through without satisfying your own stopping and yielding duties.
🔗 boe.es • General Traffic Regulation articles 56,58,132; catalogue R-2 and stop-line rules
