The Global Driver Shortage Crisis
The global shortage of professional drivers has emerged as a significant challenge that is affecting supply chains across the world. In a recent episode of 'Poniendo las Calles' on Cadena COPE, hosts Carlos Moreno 'El Pulpo' and motor expert Alfonso García 'Motorman' delved into this pressing issue, revealing that over 3 million transport professionals are needed globally. Particularly alarming is the situation in Spain, where approximately 24,000 new drivers are required annually just to keep pace with retirements in the industry. This growing demand for drivers has been attributed to several factors, including the pursuit of better working conditions, a greater work-life balance, and of course, competitive salaries. This has led many individuals to leave the profession, exemplified by the case of a truck driver who has opted to pursue a career with the National Police. The government has characterized this situation as 'an alarming figure that will escalate if appropriate measures are not taken,' as stated in a parliamentary response.
Solutions to Address the Shortage
In light of this personnel crisis, one of the primary solutions being considered both in Spain and across the European Union is the recruitment of foreign drivers who already possess truck or bus permits. To streamline this process, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) is expediting the exchange of driving licenses from third countries. In the previous year alone, over 15,500 license exchanges were facilitated, marking a 12% increase from the year before. According to Alfonso García, the majority of professionals benefiting from this measure hail from countries such as Peru, Morocco, and Colombia. He also noted that there is an agreement in place to bring in drivers from Turkey, where nearly 300,000 Turkish drivers are currently unemployed, to train them in Córdoba. This pathway is recognized under community regulations, which allow exchanged licenses to be valid throughout the European Union.
The DGT's data supports this upward trend, with Peru being the leading country for professionals who have exchanged their licenses in Spain. In 2025 alone, 4,317 exchanges were made for Peruvian citizens (2,585 for truck licenses and 1,733 for bus licenses), accounting for 27% of the total. This represents a significant increase compared to the 3,781 exchanges recorded in 2024. Following Peru, Morocco and Colombia also show notable numbers, with 2,248 and 1,206 exchanges respectively in the same year. The bus driver profession, particularly in tourist transport sectors such as Mallorca, stands to benefit from this initiative, which aims to meet the increasing demand in passenger and cargo transport. The influx of foreign workers is becoming a reality across many sectors, as illustrated by the story of a street cleaner who emigrated to Spain in 1997.
To further expedite this process, the DGT introduced a new digital exchange procedure in May 2025 for the driving permits of 33 non-EU countries with which Spain has agreements. This procedure, conducted entirely online through a form on the DGT’s website, has removed the previous requirement for an appointment, which was one of the main barriers for applicants. To qualify for the exchange, the driving license must have been obtained prior to becoming a legal resident in Spain. Generally, the process involves passing a theoretical and/or practical test; however, exceptions exist, notably for Moroccan drivers, who have only needed to complete the practical test since April 2024. It is essential to remember that, regardless of the exchange, all drivers must possess a Certificate of Professional Competence (CAP) to legally operate in Spain.
As reported by cope.es.
