Complete Document Management
for Non-EU Drivers in Spain
Hiring a driver from Ukraine, Moldova, or Kazakhstan means managing four simultaneous files: DGT licence exchange (up to 8 months), SEPE work permit, CAP 35h, and Social Security registration. We manage everything — you receive the driver ready to operate.
Decision 2022/382/EU (Royal Decree-Law 6/2022): Ukrainian drivers have immediate work authorisation in Spain, valid until 04/03/2027. Onboarding possible in 1–2 weeks.
What documents does a CE driver from outside the EU need in Spain?
A non-EU driver needs four clearances to operate legally in Spain. We open all four files simultaneously — reducing total time because processes run in parallel, not in series.
DGT Licence Exchange
Driving licence
Homologation of non-EU CE licence at the Provincial Traffic Authority. Timeline: 6–8 months. We open the file on day 1. The driver can operate with the original licence + DGT receipt while waiting.
TIE / NIE
Identity and residency
Foreigner Identity Card or Foreigner ID Number. Required for the employment contract, Social Security registration, and bank account opening. DriversHub manages the application and appointment booking.
SEPE Work Permit
Work authorisation
For drivers from Moldova, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Uzbekistan: initial residence and work permit application at SEPE. Timeline: 2–3 months. Ukrainian drivers: immediate authorisation (Royal Decree-Law 6/2022).
CAP 35h
Certificate of Professional Competence
Mandatory training for C/CE licence drivers (Royal Decree 1032/2007). The 35-hour accelerated CAP is available for drivers with existing CE licence. DriversHub coordinates with accredited centres. Renewal every 5 years.
+ Social Security registration
Once all permits are in place, we register the driver with Social Security under the road freight transport collective agreement. Employer contribution: approximately 29–30% of gross salary.
How long does documentation take by driver nationality?
Timelines vary by country of origin. The main reason: Ukrainian drivers have Temporary Protection (Decision 2022/382/EU) that eliminates the SEPE process — the biggest source of delays for other profiles.
| Nationality | Work authorisation | DGT exchange | Total time |
|---|---|---|---|
Ukraine | Immediate (Temporary Protection) valid until 04/03/2027 | 6–8 months (starts day 1) | 1–2 weeks to start operating |
Moldova | SEPE — 2–3 months Initial residence + work permit | 6–8 months (runs in parallel) | 3–4 months until work permit |
Kazakhstan | SEPE — 6–8 months Longer process than MD | 6–8 months (runs in parallel) | 6–8 months |
Belarus / Uzbekistan | SEPE — 6–8 months Same as KZ | 6–8 months (runs in parallel) | 6–8 months |
Key point: the DGT exchange takes the same time for all nationalities (6–8 months), but Ukrainian drivers can work from day one thanks to Temporary Protection. The DGT exchange runs in parallel without blocking onboarding.
What is the document management process step by step?
Five phases. Most run in parallel to minimise total time. DriversHub manages phases 2–5 entirely; the driver only provides initial documents in phase 1.
Application and document review
Day 1The driver provides a valid passport, original driving licence, recent photo, and Spain entry documentation. DriversHub verifies the legal starting position (Temporary Protection, visa, residence type) and confirms which files are required.
File preparation
Days 2–5We compile the full dossier: certified licence translation (if required), DGT forms, SEPE forms (for MD/KZ), TIE/NIE documentation, and CAP pre-enrolment at an accredited centre. Full review before submission.
DGT / SEPE submission
Days 5–15We submit the DGT file at the Provincial Traffic Authority and the SEPE file (if applicable) at the immigration office. Both processes start in parallel. For UA drivers, only DGT applies — work authorisation already exists under Royal Decree-Law 6/2022.
Follow-up and requirement management
2–8 monthsAgencies frequently request additional documents. DriversHub actively monitors the files and responds to any request within 48 hours. The driver only acts when a personal signature is required — we coordinate everything else.
Social Security registration and final handover
Resolution + 3 daysOnce DGT and SEPE are resolved, we register the driver with Social Security, execute the employment contract under the transport collective agreement, and deliver the complete dossier: Spanish DGT licence, work permit, TIE, CAP, and SS card. Driver fully legal and ready to operate.
How does document management fit into our other services?
Document management is included in both service models. Also available as a standalone service if your company already has a driver and needs specific help with the bureaucracy.
Model A — Direct Recruitment
Document management is included in the recruitment fee. DGT + SEPE + CAP + SS are part of the standard process.
See Model A →Model D — Staff-Leasing ETT
As the driver's employer, DriversHub manages all employment documentation including DGT, CAP, and SS throughout the contract.
See Model D →Standalone Service
You already have the driver but need to manage the DGT exchange, CAP, or SEPE permit. Specific quote based on the driver's situation.
Request a quote →Frequently asked questions about driver document management
How long does the DGT driving licence exchange take in Spain for foreign drivers?
The DGT exchange for a non-EU driving licence takes 6 to 8 months from submission. We open the file on day one. While waiting, the driver can work under their original licence accompanied by the DGT application receipt. Ukrainian drivers with Temporary Protection (Decision 2022/382/EU, valid until 04/03/2027) have immediate work authorisation under Royal Decree-Law 6/2022.
Can a driver work while waiting for the DGT licence exchange?
Yes, under conditions. During the DGT exchange process, the driver may drive in Spain using the original country licence accompanied by the DGT application receipt. DriversHub verifies in each case whether the original licence is valid under the bilateral Spain–issuing country agreement before presenting the driver.
What is the 35-hour CAP for professional drivers?
The Certificate of Professional Competence (CAP) is mandatory for truck drivers (C/CE categories) in Spain. The accelerated 35-hour CAP is available for drivers with existing CE licence experience. DriversHub coordinates the process with accredited training centres. The CAP must be renewed every 5 years (additional 35 hours).
Who handles the documentation — DriversHub or the driver?
DriversHub manages the entire file: DGT application, SEPE work permit process, CAP coordination with accredited centres, Social Security registration, and TIE/NIE filing. The driver provides personal documents (passport, original licence, medical certificate). The employer provides company data for the employment contract. No knowledge of specific procedures required.
How much does standalone document management cost?
Standalone document management is priced based on the driver's situation: nationality, documents available, urgency, and outstanding procedures. We issue a detailed quote within 24 business hours. If the service comes with direct recruitment (Model A) or staff-leasing (Model D), document management is included at no additional cost.
Enquire about the document
process for your driver
Tell us the driver's nationality, available documents, and urgency. We'll outline the exact process and realistic timelines. No obligation to proceed.
Also need the recruitment?
With Direct Recruitment (Model A) or Staff-Leasing (Model D), document management is included at no extra charge.
Prefer WhatsApp?
+34 627 626 460