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Benidorm Simplifies Taxi Licensing Rules Ahead of Busy Tourist Season

 

Benidorm / 13 April 2026

 

Benidorm City Council has announced a series of reforms to the process for obtaining a municipal taxi licence, aimed at simplifying access to the profession and increasing driver availability ahead of the peak tourist season.

 

The changes, expected to come into force in May 2026, were presented to representatives of the local taxi sector during a meeting involving councillors responsible for mobility, public safety and commerce.

 

Streamlined Application Process

Among the key reforms is the removal of the mandatory medical certificate, a requirement previously imposed on applicants.

 

Officials say the measure eliminates duplication, as drivers must already meet medical standards when obtaining or renewing their driving licence.

 

Francis Muñoz, Councillor for Mobility, said the aim is to reduce bureaucracy and make the process more accessible for new entrants to the sector.

 

New Exam Dates to Meet Demand

The City Council has also revised the timing of taxi licence examinations:

• Exams will now take place in February and May
• Previously, they were held in May and October

 

The change is designed to allow new drivers to enter the workforce before the summer tourism surge, when demand for taxis rises significantly in the Costa Blanca resort.

 

Registration for the next exam is expected to open between 15 and 30 April, pending final administrative approval.

 

Updated Test Format and Fees

The licensing exam itself will also be updated:

• Candidates will answer 40 multiple-choice questions
• Incorrect answers will now result in point deductions

 

Officials say the revised format is intended to improve knowledge standards among future drivers.

The exam fee will increase from €9 to €35, although the council notes that applicants will still save money overall due to the removal of the medical certificate, which previously cost around €50.

 

Supporting the Local Tourism Economy

The reforms form part of a broader strategy to ensure Benidorm’s transport infrastructure keeps pace with visitor demand.

 

With millions of tourists visiting Benidorm each year, local authorities say ensuring a sufficient number of qualified taxi drivers is essential to maintaining service quality and supporting the local economy.

 

Officials believe the updated system will:

• Encourage more applicants to enter the profession
• Reduce administrative barriers
• Improve service standards
• Strengthen the city’s readiness for peak tourism periods

 

Next Steps

The changes will be formalised through a municipal decree and presented to political groups before final approval.

 

If implemented as planned, the new system will be in place ahead of the summer season, providing a more efficient and cost-effective pathway into the taxi sector.