- orihuela will host its own public facility for theoretical driving exams, shifting from private locations.
- Agreement signed between Orihuela city Hall and the Directorate General of traffic (DGT) for a computer-equipped exam room.
- The historic former CAM building, acquired for €2 million, will be adapted for this purpose.
- The City Council will fund building adaptation and maintenance; DGT will ensure at least one exam session per month.
- The agreement duration is initially four years, extendable up to eight, with a joint monitoring commission.
Orihuela to Launch Public Facility for Theoretical Driving Examinations
In a important advancement for local drivers, the city of Orihuela will soon offer a dedicated public space for conducting theoretical driving tests. previously held at a private location within the municipal area, the exams will now be hosted in a city-owned facility, enhancing accessibility and equal conditions for all candidates.
New Agreement Between Orihuela Town Hall and DGT
On Monday, September 15, 2025, Orihuela’s Mayor Pepe vegara and Antonio Jesús Fornes Méndez, provincial head of Alicante’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), signed an official agreement establishing a computerized classroom for conducting these exams.
The main goals of the partnership include:
- Bringing the exam service closer to citizens
- Ensuring fairness and consistency in test conditions, matching other DGT centers
- Providing technical support and guidance by DGT for exam delivery
The Venue: Former CAM Building
The exams will take place in the recently purchased former CAM building, an emblematic structure located by the Puente de Levante (Levante bridge). Orihuela City Council acquired this property for two million euros this past July after years of negotiations among different political groups. This building has a history of municipal use, even serving temporarily as the town hall in September 2021 during renovation works of the Marqués de Arneva Palace.
Details of the Agreement
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| City Council of Orihuela | Adapt building with proper technical, safety, and accessibility features; provide IT equipment and furniture; cover expenses of maintenance and management. |
| DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) | Guarantee at least one monthly scheduled theoretical exam session, provide technical support and advisory. |
The facility’s adaptation costs and operational budget will be included in the 2026 municipal budget. The project aims to optimize multiple uses for this building, making it a strategic asset for the community.
Duration and Oversight
The contract has an initial term of four years, with an option for an additional four-year extension. It also establishes a mixed monitoring commission to coordinate implementation and resolve any issues that may arise.
Why This Matters to Orihuela Residents
Previously, locals had to attend private or distant venues for theoretical driving tests, which could cause inconvenience and scheduling challenges. This new public space in the heart of Orihuela:
- Makes access easier and more equitable for all drivers
- Ensures consistent standards with other official DGT exam centers
- Promotes local use of historic municipal buildings
- Supports safety and transparency in driving licensing procedures
Looking Ahead
Orihuela’s initiative reflects broader trends in Spain toward enhancing public services related to transportation and road safety. By bringing exams closer to citizens in a controlled, modern facility, Orihuela is setting a positive example for other mid-sized cities.
The project is expected to fully launch once the building renovations conclude and the necessary technologies are installed, likely by mid-2026.
Credits and sources: La Verdad – Orihuela Traffic exam Facility