What are the important local driving laws tourists should know before driving in Mallorca?

When driving in Mallorca, tourists should familiarize themselves with several key local laws to ensure a safe and hassle-free experience. The legal driving age is 18 years, but car rental companies often require drivers to be at least 21 and hold a valid driver’s license for a minimum of one to two years. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and children under 12 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child safety seat. Mallorca’s roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural or mountainous areas, so driving cautiously and obeying speed limits is crucial. Limits are typically 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on highways.

Drink-driving laws are strictly enforced, with a blood alcohol limit of 0.05%, lower than in some other countries, and penalties for violations can be severe. It’s important to remember that in Mallorca, as in the rest of Spain, drivers use the right-hand side of the road. The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless a hands-free system is used, and speeding fines can be issued on the spot or sent by mail if cameras capture infractions. Roundabouts are common on the island, and vehicles already inside the roundabout have priority unless otherwise indicated.

Tourists should also be aware of parking regulations, as unauthorized parking can result in fines or towing. Pay attention to blue zones or parking meters in urban areas, and always use designated parking areas, especially in busy towns like Palma. Emergency equipment such as a reflective vest and warning triangle must be carried in the vehicle, and their use is mandatory in the event of a breakdown or accident. Understanding and respecting these local driving laws will help visitors enjoy their Mallorca road trips with peace of mind and avoid unexpected legal troubles.