- The points-based license starts at 8 or 12 points and can reach 15 with good conduct or drop to 0 depending on the infractions.
- The DGT allows you to consult and download receipts and point reports for free, but the official certificate requires a fee of 4.1.
- The official points certificate is requested electronically or at the Headquarters and is sent by mail to the address on the permit.
- Points can be recovered with approved courses, good conduct and, if all points are lost, with a 24-hour course and a theoretical exam.
As a driver, you've probably wondered more than once how many points you have left on your license or how to get an official document that proves it. To know and be able to demonstrate your DGT points balance It has become almost indispensable: it can be requested by a delivery company, the human resources department, an insurance company, or even another public administration.
In the following lines you will find a very complete guide on how to obtain your DGT points report: How the points-based driving license works, how to check your balance, what types of reports and supporting documents exist, how to obtain the official points certificate, how much it costs, what you need before requesting it, and what to do if you are short of points.In addition, you'll see what courses are available to recover them and some key tips to avoid losing them again.
How the DGT points system works
In Spain, driving licenses operate on a credit system: each driver is assigned a number of points which are deducted when certain infractions are committed and can be increased with good driving behavior.
In general, Most drivers have 12 points on your license. This number is not fixed: it can go up to 15 points if you maintain exemplary behavior, or go down to zero, which means the license will be revoked.
There are two special cases where the starting point is not 12 points. New drivers and those who regain their license after total loss or judicial withdrawal start with 8 points.Over time, and without serious infractions, that balance increases until it is equal to that of the rest of the drivers.
The system was implemented with a clear objective: to promote safer and more responsible drivingEach infraction carries a financial penalty and, in many cases, a loss of points. Using a mobile phone while driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or clearly exceeding the speed limit are common examples of behaviors that result in a significant number of points being deducted.
If you reach zero pointsIf your license is invalidated by the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic), you will no longer be able to drive. At that point, the full reinstatement process begins, which involves longer courses and a new theory test to regain your license.
How many points do I have on my license: initial balance and evolution
When you get your driver's license for the first time, You start with 8 pointsThis initial period is considered riskier because you are an inexperienced driver, so the DGT applies this limitation to reinforce caution.
If during the first three years you do not commit any offenses that result in the loss of points, Your balance increases to 12 points, which is the standard figure for most drivers in Spain.
With continued good behavior, you can continue to improve your balance: It is possible to reach a maximum of 15 points If you maintain safe driving and no serious offenses for extended periods (more than 9 years), this additional bonus is a way to reward responsible drivers.
On the other hand, each infraction can deduct between 2 and 6 points, depending on the severity. Driving while using a mobile phone, especially if you are handling the device with your hand, can cost you 6 points.The same applies to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or to very high speeds.
The result is that, if you commit several serious infractions in a row, Your points balance can drop quickly and put you in a precarious position. Hence the importance of checking your balance from time to time and, if you're running low on points, considering taking a points recovery course.
Ways to check your points balance at the DGT
The DGT provides you with several channels so you can find out how many points you have on your license whenever you want. However, your driver's license must be valid.If it is suspended or withdrawn, you will not be able to make the inquiry in the usual way.
Online consultation at the Electronic Office
The most complete and flexible way is the DGT Electronic HeadquartersIn the specific section for “Check points and history”. This system allows you to access both your current balance and your transaction history (point losses and recoveries).
To identify yourself online you can use several methods: digital certificate, electronic ID card or Cl@ve systemAny of them will allow you to see your points balance on screen in real time and download different documents related to your points.
If you do not have a digital certificate or Cl@ve, There is an option to register with a username and passwordIn that case, you register with your NIF/NIE and an email address; the DGT will send you the codes to access the consultation service.
Check using the miDGT app
Another very practical way to see your points is through the official miDGT appAvailable for mobile phones and tablets. Once installed and identified with Cl@ve or your digital certificate, you can check both your license in digital format and your points balance from your phone.
The advantage of this system is convenience: You can check your points balance at any time, without needing to access the website from a computer, and always have your driver data at hand.
Telephone consultation on 060
If you prefer a simpler option and don't need downloadable documents, You can call the phone number 060, the general citizen service number of the DGT.
This service will only provide you with basic information: the number of points you have left on your licenseYou won't receive an official receipt or a detailed report, so it's not useful for proving your balance to third parties, but it can quickly clear up any doubts.
The 060 number has automated service. 24 hours a day, every day of the yearand support is available through a specialist agent Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 18:00 p.m. (excluding national holidays). If you are calling from abroad, you can use the number +34 902 887 060.
In-person consultation at Traffic Headquarters
If you're more comfortable in person, that works too. You can go to any Traffic Headquarters or Office To request information about your points, it is essential to make an appointment, either through the DGT website or by calling 060.
In-person service is primarily intended for natural persons and their representativesCompanies and other legal entities, as a general rule, must carry out their procedures through the electronic headquarters.
What reports and point receipts can you obtain?
Once you access the DGT's Electronic Office with your digital ID, you can not only see your balance on screen, but also Download different types of receipts and reports about your pointsIt is important to differentiate each one clearly, because not all of them have the same legal value.
Points receipt (current balance)
The first document you can obtain is a receipt with your updated points balance at the time of the inquiryIt is a PDF that shows how many points you have at that moment.
This receipt is free and is generated immediately after making the inquiry. It functions as an informational safeguard for you And, in some cases, it can be used to show it to someone who asks for it informally, but it is not considered an official certificate.
Detailed point statement (movement history)
In addition to the current balance, the DGT allows you to obtain a detailed supporting documentation with the transaction history of your points-based driving license. This document shows the dates on which you have lost or regained points, how many points were transferred in each case, and the reason.
This report indicates, for example, the infractions that have resulted in the loss of points or the road safety awareness and re-education courses you have taken to recover them. It also reflects any bonuses earned for good conduct and changes in your balance until you reach 15 points, if applicable.
Just like the current balance statement, This detailed report is free. You can download it as a PDF to save or print. It will be very useful if you want to understand why you've reached your current balance and what room you have to maneuver.
Driver data reports (current and last 10 years)
In addition to the specific points receipts, the DGT allows you to download driver data reportsThere are two main types: a report with updated driver data and another with information from the last 10 years.
These reports also appear information regarding your points balanceTherefore, they can serve as supporting documentation without the need to pay any fees. However, the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) warns against repeatedly and excessively downloading these reports without a justified reason.
In case of excessive use, the provisions of the Article 13.3 of Organic Law 3/2018, of Personal Data Protection and guarantee of digital rights, which regulates the proper treatment of this type of information.
If you encounter an error when trying to download one of these reports, You can repeat the process at no additional cost.You will not be charged anything extra for re-downloading until it is successfully generated.

Official DGT points certificate: what it is and what it's for
Many people search the internet for expressions like "free DGT points certificate" or "online points certificate" and get confused. Checking your points or downloading a receipt is not the same as obtaining the official points balance certificate..
El official DGT points certificate It is a document formally issued by the Traffic Department, after registering an application and paying a specific fee (fee 4.1). This certificate is produced on paper and It is sent by post to the address shown on your driver's license.It is not downloaded immediately like a simple PDF.
This is the document they usually require. transport companies, delivery companies, human resources departments, insurance companies and public administrations when they want to legally verify the status of your driving license points system.
Unlike a simple consultation and free supporting documents or reports, the official certificate has full administrative validity and is considered Conclusive proof of your points balance on a specific date.
Key differences between consultation, supporting document, report, and official certificate
When you access the DGT website with your digital certificate or Cl@ve, you can do several different things, and it's important not to confuse them:
- DGT points inquiry (free)You can see your points balance directly on the screen. It's informative and fast.
- Proof of consultation or report (free of charge)After consulting the results, you can save or print a PDF. This is useful for you, but it is not equivalent to an official certificate.
- Official certificate of points balance (paid): requires paying fee 4.1, registering a formal application and waiting for the DGT to send you the document by mail.
Make this clear: whether you just want to know how many points you have or need a simple informational recordThe consultation and free receipts are sufficient. If they are asking for a legally certifying document, you will have to obtain the official certificate.
How to request the official DGT points certificate step by step
The official certificate can be requested online through the Electronic Office or in person at a Traffic Headquarters. In both cases, it is necessary to meet a series of requirements and, above all, pay the corresponding fee.
Prerequisites for applying for the certificate
Before you start working on the electronic application, you should make sure you have everything ready. You will need one of these identification systems: Digital Certificate, Electronic ID Card or Cl@veWithout them, you will only have access to basic queries, but you will not be able to submit the certificate application electronically.
Furthermore, since the documentation must be signed electronically, it will be necessary have a signature tool like AutoFirma installed on your computer (or the appropriate apps on your mobile device). This will allow you to sign the application before registering it in the system.
If you decide to authorize another person to carry out procedures on your behalf, you will have to register that representation in the Register of Powers of AttorneyIn this way, your representative will be able to identify themselves as such and act legally on your behalf at the electronic headquarters.
Online application through the DGT Electronic Registry
To process the certificate online, you must go to Electronic Registry of the Official Headquarters of the DGTOnce inside, the system will ask you if you are submitting the procedure as an “Interested Party” or as a “Representative”, and with which identification method you will authenticate (Digital Certificate or Cl@ve).
Then, you will have to fill in your personal details of the person requesting the certificate (whether the interested party or their representative). Then, in the "Recipient Organization" dropdown menu, you must select the Provincial Traffic Headquarters corresponding to your province.
If you're not sure which one is right, You can choose to select “Central Traffic Headquarters”which acts as the reference organization. In the "Subject" field, write something as clear as "Request for points certificate".
In the "States and requests" section, it is recommended Please provide details of your request, including as much information as possible.: that you are requesting the official certificate of points balance for your driving license, the reason why you need it and any additional information that may facilitate the processing.
Remember that You must attach the documentation in good quality If you upload digitized files, and the administration cannot properly read what you have sent, your request will likely not be processed.
Payment of fee 4.1 and electronic signature
The official certificate is not free. To obtain it from the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic), you will need to pay fee 4.1The updated amount in the examples provided is €8,67. Without payment of the fee, the administration will not process your certificate.
If you manage it online, you will have to Purchase the fee through one of the authorized channels and attach the proof of payment. in the application. It is essential not to forget this step, because without the fee being correctly paid, the registration will not result in the issuance of the certificate.
Once the entire application is prepared, you will need to sign it electronically using AutoFirma or the equivalent tool. At that point, the procedure will be registered and the DGT will proceed with its internal processing.
Please note that submitting by registration does not mean that the certificate will be issued instantly. The collection, validation, and issuance of the certificate takes time.And the administration cannot guarantee a specific timeframe, although it will try to resolve it as soon as possible.
In-person application at Headquarters and method of submission
If you prefer to handle the process in person, you can schedule an appointment at a Traffic Headquarters or OfficeThere, in addition to submitting the necessary documentation, you can purchase fee 4.1 on the spot, always using a bank card (credit or debit).
It is important to know that Payment of the fee in cash is not permitted. and that a fee previously acquired through other channels cannot be used at the counter if it is not correctly assigned to the procedure.
Whether you apply online or in person, The DGT will send you the official certificate by mail. to the address shown on your driver's license. This document is not automatically downloaded upon completion of the process; therefore, it is essential to keep the proof of submission in case it is requested later.
Drivers with exchanged licenses and points certificates
If you are a foreigner and have exchanged your country's driving license for a Spanish one, you may be wondering what information you will see when checking your points or requesting the certificate. The query will show the points associated with your Spanish license.not the original license from your country.
In the same way, You can request a points certificate even if your license is the result of a trade-in.What the DGT will do is certify the balance of points assigned to your valid Spanish license, exactly the same as with any other driver.

How to recover points on your driving license
If you check your balance and see that you're running very close, it's time to act. The DGT offers different mechanisms to recover points.either automatically over time, or through specific road awareness and re-education courses, or through safe and efficient driving courses.
Partial recovery of points with 12-hour courses
When you still have points left but have lost several and don't want to risk losing your license, you can opt for a 12-hour road safety awareness and re-education courseThese courses are approved by the DGT and are taught in authorized centers (driving schools and specialized entities).
Some texts indicate that with these courses you can recover up to 4 pointswhile other sources speak of up to 6 points at most. The exact figure may vary depending on the regulations in force at any given time, but in any case it is a partial, not a total, recovery.
In general, You can only take this type of course on a regular basis once every 2 years.If you are a professional driver, there is the possibility of doing it more frequently (once a year), precisely because you spend many more hours on the road.
These courses are not just for accumulating points, but also aim to Reinforce safe driving habits, analyze mistakes made, and raise awareness of risksIn many centers, they also advise you on how to manage your points situation and what steps to take if you are at the limit.
Automatic recovery for good behavior
If you've lost some points, but Two years pass without you committing any new offenses that result in a loss of points.Your balance is restored to the initial level of 12 points (provided your license remains valid). This automatic recovery mechanism rewards drivers who correct their habits and stop committing traffic violations.
For those who have committed very serious offenses, the period without violations can be extended To recover your full balance, it's important that you avoid any punishable conduct that results in points being deducted during this time, as a new violation could hinder the recovery process.
Safe and efficient driving courses
In addition to awareness courses focused directly on the points, there are the safe and efficient driving coursesSuccessful completion of these courses is rewarded with 2 additional points, up to a maximum of 15, provided your license is valid and you have a positive balance.
It is only recognized one course of each type (motorcycles and passenger cars) every 2 yearsand always within the limits established by the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic). These courses focus on improving your driving technique, anticipating risks, vehicle control, and reducing fuel consumption.
Full recovery after losing all points
If your balance reaches zero, the DGT declares the expiration of your permit And a 12-hour course is no longer enough. To regain your driving license, you'll have to follow a more demanding process.
In this case, you will need to perform a 24-hour road safety awareness and re-education course and, once finished, pass a theory test at the DGTOnly if you pass that test will you get your license back, which will start again with a reduced points balance, as if you were practically a novice driver.
Specialized centers and approved driving schools, such as those mentioned in the reference content (for example, RACC Start or academies focused on point recovery), They offer courses specifically designed to help you in these situations.with personalized advice, flexible schedules and support to successfully pass the final exam.
Where to find information about point recovery courses
If you want to know what courses are available in your area, you can consult the DGT's own point recovery course system, where the approved centers, dates and types of courses (partial or total) are listed.
In addition, many driving schools and training entities have specific pages dedicated to point recoverywhere they explain the duration, cost, access requirements and how many points can be recovered in each case.
Some of these entities even offer Explanatory videos on how to obtain a Digital Certificate, how to install AutoFirma or how to request the official points certificate step by step, which can save you a lot of headaches with the electronic process.
If you get stuck or have any doubts during the process, Many centers offer telephone or instant messaging support. to guide you on what course you need and how to manage your situation with the DGT, although you will always have to carry out the official certificate procedure yourself with your electronic identification.
Basic tips to avoid losing points
Beyond reports, certificates and courses, the ideal is not to have to worry about losing points. Some simple habits drastically reduce the risk of penalties and they help you keep your balance intact.
The first thing is Banish the use of mobile phones while drivingIf you need to use it as a navigation system, configure it before starting the engine, use approved mounts and hands-free calling, and avoid manipulating it while driving at all costs.
It is also essential Always respect speed limitsExcessive speeding is not only very dangerous, but also carries high penalties and the loss of a significant number of points, especially on intercity roads and through towns.
Obviously, You should never get behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugsBesides being one of the main causes of serious accidents, administrative and criminal penalties can leave you without a license for long periods.
Finally, don't forget Always use seat belts and child restraint systemsMaintain defensive driving habits (anticipating the mistakes of other drivers) and check the condition of your vehicle. All these elements influence safety and the risk of committing traffic violations.
Knowing your balance well, knowing how Obtain reports and the official DGT points certificateUnderstanding the differences between a consultation, a receipt, and a report, and being clear about the points recovery procedures, will allow you to navigate the process and requirements with much greater confidence. If you add responsible driving and some extra training when needed, it will be much easier to keep your license valid and avoid surprises with the points system.
Editor specialized in technology and internet issues with more than ten years of experience in different digital media. I have worked as an editor and content creator for e-commerce, communication, online marketing and advertising companies. I have also written on economics, finance and other sectors websites. My work is also my passion. Now, through my articles in Tecnobits, I try to explore all the news and new opportunities that the world of technology offers us every day to improve our lives.
