Ho Ho Whoa: Why decorating your car in Spain could land you on the naughty list
Overdo the festive decorations on your vehicle in Spain and you could jingle all the way to a 500 euro fine
Drivers in Spain are well known for their passion, flair and occasional inventiveness on the road, so it’s no surprise that some motorists bring this enthusiasm into the holiday season and take things a little too far.
Picture this: a car adorned with festive reindeer antlers, a shiny red nose and a jolly Santa waving from the back window. It’s all in the name of spreading Christmas cheer, right? Unfortunately, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) doesn’t share the same festive spirit when it comes to decking out your vehicle.
Before you transform your ride into Rudolph’s sleigh, there are a few crucial rules - and hefty fines -you need to know about.
According to the DGT, decorations like antlers or tails are considered unauthorised modifications because they can change your car’s dimensions and pose a safety risk to other drivers. The fine for this festive faux pas? Up to 500 euros. Yes, you read that right. Rudolph’s nose might glow, but it could also lighten your wallet.
Now, drivers in Spain aren’t entirely banned from spreading a bit of holiday cheer. A simple ‘Happy Christmas’ bumper sticker or small decorative touch on the dashboard is absolutely fine, as long as it doesn’t alter your car’s shape or interfere with visibility.
But beware of one major Ho Ho NO: anything that covers your license plate. That could result in a whopping 6,000 euro fine and six points off your license, making it one holiday tradition that you definitely want to avoid.
If you’re thinking of driving to your Christmas party dressed as the big guy himself, proceed with caution. While Spanish law doesn’t exactly ban costumes as it does with certain types of footwear, there are rules about ensuring your freedom of movement and clear visibility while driving.
A full Santa beard that blocks your view or a costume so bulky it restricts your arms and legs could earn you a fine of 80 euros.
Stick to embarrassing Christmas jumpers, perhaps, or just skip the jingle bells if they might distract you.
So, if you’re dreaming of a decorated car this Christmas, maybe think twice before channelling your inner Santa’s helper. Save the reindeer antlers for the terrace and keep the holiday magic alive in safer, less fine-prone ways.
Happy holidays, and safe travels.
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