DGT Test Languages: Every Language Available for the Exam
The DGT Permit B theory test is available in multiple languages including Spanish, English, French, German, Arabic, Chinese, Romanian, and Russian. You can request any available language when registering, regardless of your nationality. The exam content is identical in all languages — only the translation differs. This guide covers the full list, how to request your language, and what to watch out for.
Complete List of Available Languages
The DGT periodically updates the languages offered for the theory exam. As of the most recent update, the following languages are available:
| Language | Availability |
|---|---|
| Spanish (Castellano) | All centres |
| English | All centres |
| French (Français) | All centres |
| German (Deutsch) | Most centres |
| Arabic (العربية) | Most centres |
| Chinese (中文) | Most centres |
| Romanian (Românã) | Most centres |
| Russian (Русский) | Most centres |
| Portuguese (Português) | Some centres |
| Turkish (Türkçe) | Some centres |
| Ukrainian (Українська) | Some centres |
Spanish and English are guaranteed at every testing centre in Spain. Other languages depend on your province and centre — most large cities offer all major languages, while smaller centres may have a more limited selection. Co-official languages (Catalan, Basque, Galician, Valencian) are also available in their respective communities.
How to Request Your Language
You specify your preferred exam language when you register for the theory test. If you are enrolling through a driving school (autoescuela), simply tell them which language you want when you sign up. They handle the paperwork and will ensure your exam is set to the correct language.
If you are registering as a free candidate (candidato libre), you select your language on the DGT application form — either online at sede.dgt.gob.es or on the paper form at your Jefatura de Tráfico. There is a specific field for "idioma del examen" (exam language). No justification or proof of nationality is required — a German citizen can take the exam in Arabic if they wish.
If you forget to specify a language or need to change it after registration, contact your autoescuela or the Jefatura de Tráfico as early as possible. Changes are usually possible up to a few days before the exam date, but this varies by province.
What Appears on Screen
When you take the exam in a language other than Spanish, the screen displays both versions simultaneously. Your chosen language appears as the primary text, with the Spanish original shown below or alongside it. This dual display is extremely useful — if a translation is unclear, you can cross-reference with the Spanish version.
The answer options (A, B, C) are also shown in both languages. Images, diagrams, and road signs are the same regardless of language — only the text changes.
Translation Quality Issues
The DGT translations are functional but not always elegant. The English version, in particular, is known for awkward phrasing that comes from literal translation of the Spanish original. Some common quirks in the English DGT exam include:
- Unusual word order that mirrors Spanish sentence structure
- Technical terms that differ from those used in the UK or USA (e.g., "road" where you might expect "lane", or "circulation" instead of "traffic")
- Occasionally ambiguous phrasing where the Spanish original is clearer
- Use of "must" and "should" in ways that can seem interchangeable to English speakers but have distinct legal meanings in the Spanish context
This is why seeing the Spanish original alongside your language is helpful. If an English question seems confusing, the Spanish version often clarifies the intended meaning — especially if you have some basic Spanish comprehension.
Languages Not Available
If your native language is not on the list, you must choose from the available options. Many candidates whose language is not offered choose English, as it is the most widely studied second language. If you are not comfortable with any of the listed languages, you can request a certified interpreter to accompany you to the exam, though this is rare and requires advance arrangement with the DGT.
The DGT adds new languages based on demand. If there is a significant immigrant community from a particular country, the language may be added in future updates. However, there is no formal process to petition for a new language.
Tips for Non-Native Speakers
Regardless of which language you choose, here are practical tips for taking the DGT exam as a non-native speaker:
- Practice with DGT-style translations. Study using materials that replicate the DGT's actual phrasing, not generic driving theory content. The way questions are worded matters — familiarise yourself with the specific vocabulary the DGT uses.
- Read both language versions during the exam. Even if your Spanish is basic, checking the original text can clarify ambiguities in the translation.
- Take your time. You have 30 minutes for 30 questions. Non-native speakers often rush because they feel pressure from reading in a second language. There is no penalty for taking the full time.
- Learn key Spanish driving terms. Even if you take the exam in another language, knowing words like "ceda el paso" (give way), "adelantamiento" (overtaking), and "calzada" (road surface) helps you cross-reference when needed.
- Watch for false friends. Some Spanish terms look similar to English words but mean different things. "Arcén" means shoulder (of a road), not "arch". "Sentido" means direction, not "sense".