The province of Almería celebrates two decades since the introduction of the points-based driving license, a system that has transformed road safety by shifting from a penalty-only model to an educational one that rewards good driving behavior. Since its implementation on July 1, 2006, the measure has been crucial in modifying irresponsible conduct and raising awareness about the severe consequences of reckless driving.
The effectiveness of the points license is evident in the drastic decrease in accidents. In Almería, the number of road fatalities has fallen by 70%, from 95 deaths in 2004 to 29 in 2025. This achievement places Spain among the leading European countries in road safety, with a mortality rate significantly lower than the EU average.
According to data from the Provincial Traffic Headquarters, 43% of Almería's licensed drivers, totaling 192,620 individuals, have lost points due to infractions. In total, 1,108,841 points have been deducted through 318,868 sanctions. A total of 7,285 drivers have lost all their points, and 2,364 have yet to recover their licenses.
The most common infractions leading to point deductions include speeding (93,078 sanctions), not wearing a seatbelt (45,870), using a mobile phone (43,615), and positive alcohol tests (43,433).
Twelve authorized centers for road safety education operate in the province, having provided 2,414 courses to 23,288 students since 2006. Nationally, the points license has contributed to increasing seatbelt usage to 98% and reducing positive alcohol test results to 1%.
