Crit’Air Sticker in Spain: What You Need to Know  

Do You Need a Crit’Air Sticker in Spain?

Did you know? In Spain, the Crit’Air sticker, also known as the environmental label, is required for vehicles to drive in Low Emission Zones (Zonas de Bajas Emisiones, ZBE) in major cities. These zones are becoming increasingly common across Spain, making it essential for motorists to comply with the environmental standards set for ZBEs. Do you often holiday in Spain? Please note that the French Crit’Air sticker is not valid! Drivers must obtain the corresponding Spanish environmental sticker. What types of stickers are available in Spain? How can you get your sticker before setting off on your journey? Bip&Go, the specialist of electronic toll payment in France, explains everything you need to know.

What Is a Low Emission Zone (Zona de Baja Emisión)?

In Spain, a Low Emission Zone (ZBE) is a regulated urban area where access for the most polluting vehicles is restricted. The aim is to reduce air pollution. Each city sets its own access criteria. Cars must display the environmental sticker issued by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) to drive within a ZBE. These stickers categorise vehicles according to their CO₂ and particulate emissions.

Be aware that cars without a sticker, or with a lower-level sticker (B or C), may be denied entry. The introduction of ZBEs is designed to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the health of residents in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.

What Are the Different Types of Environmental Stickers in Spain?

There are four different types of environmental stickers in Spain. The criteria for each are as follows:

Cities Where the Sticker Is Mandatory in Spain

Several Spanish cities regulate vehicle access to urban areas using the Crit’Air sticker. This includes:

- Madrid (restrictions for vehicles without a sticker in the city centre) 
- Barcelona (ZBE introduced in 2020) 
- Valencia (ZBE currently being implemented) 
- Granada (ZBE planned by 2025) 
- Seville 
- Bilbao 
- Malaga 
- Zaragoza 
- Alicante 
- Murcia

How to Get the Spanish Crit’Air Sticker

The Spanish Crit’Air sticker can be obtained online via the official DGT website or at post offices. You simply need to provide the required documents, such as your vehicle registration certificate, and pay the applicable fee. The cost depends on the type of vehicle and sticker. The sticker must then be displayed on your windscreen.

Is My French Environmental Sticker Valid in Spain?

Please note that the French Crit’Air sticker is not valid in Spain. Each country has its own system, and Spanish authorities only recognise Spanish stickers. Foreign motorists must therefore apply for a Spanish environmental sticker to access the country’s low emission zones. Under the Spanish Highway Code, driving with an incorrect sticker may result in a fine.

Travel Stress-Free on Spanish Motorways with the Bip&Go Electronic Toll Badge

Heading to Spain for your holidays? Make motorway tolls easier by subscribing to a Bip&Go electronic toll plan. With your subscription-linked toll badge, there’s no need to stop and pay at the barrier. The system detects your badge and the barrier lifts automatically.

The Liber-T Vacances plan from Bip&Go is compatible with most tolls in Spain and even works on free-flow motorways. No more queues—use the dedicated lanes for subscribers on traditional motorways and save time on your journey. Bip&Go ensures secure service with a contactless badge for complete peace of mind on the road.

Discover the Liber-T Vacances offer

FAQ

What are the penalties for driving in a Low Emission Zone in Spain without the environmental sticker?

Drivers without the Spanish Crit’Air sticker will be required to pay a fine if stopped by the police.

How can I check if my vehicle Is eligible for an environmental sticker in Spain?

To check your vehicle’s eligibility, visit the official DGT website.

What are the specific restrictions for diesel vehicles in Spanish Low Emission Zones?

Each city sets its own access criteria. However, diesel vehicles with a B or C sticker are generally subject to reduced or prohibited access to ZBEs.