José Antonio Rivero Mañé, better known as Pepe, has secured another year on the road after renewing his driving licence at 99, days before his 100th birthday on August 22. He remains legally able to lead. His renewal reflects both personal determination and the flexibility of Spanish traffic regulations.
Pepe, a retired technical engineer who spent decades working for Renfe, lives in Corbins, Lleida, with his wife. In an interview published by La Vanguardia, he said he still drives into Lleida on Fridays to shop because he wants to stay independent. “I don’t want to depend on my children,” he explained, expressing a sentiment shared by many older Spaniards who value autonomy in daily life.
Licence Renewal at 99
Pepe’s case has drawn attention because of his age and his continued ability to meet the medical and psychophysical requirements set by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). He passed the required tests and received a one-year renewal. His story reached a wider audience on the national program Y ahora Sonsoles (Antena 3), where Pepe said he has driven more than two million kilometers and feels as fit as a man of 70.
No Maximum Age for Drivers
Spanish law sets no maximum age for holding a driving licence. The DGT says a driver’s health and ability, not age, are what matter. Most licences are renewed for ten years until age 65; after that, the renewal period drops to five years. If medical checks find conditions that need closer monitoring, the period can be shortened, as it was in Pepe’s case.
At his latest renewal, Pepe was asked about his medication and medical history. He admitted his eyesight is not as sharp as it once was, but said he still meets the requirements. The DGT can adjust renewal periods to reflect a driver’s health. Drivers can also consult official guidelines to see which conditions may affect eligibility.
A Life on the Rails and the Road
Pepe’s connection to transport began long before retirement. He joined Renfe in 1951 as a boiler assistant, then qualified as an industrial technical engineer. He later managed rolling stock maintenance in Catalonia until retiring in 1988. His first car was a second-hand Seat 600, and he still uses his vehicle for specific trips.
In his interview, Pepe said he has had an accident and received a speeding fine in recent years. Since turning 70, he has been exempt from the DGT’s renewal fee, though he still pays for the required medical examination. Spanish traffic law provides this benefit to senior drivers.
Context and Significance
Pepe’s story reflects Spain’s approach to ageing and mobility: a person’s ability, not age, determines the right to lead. His case is exceptional, but many seniors in Spain continue driving safely with regular medical checks and flexible regulations. For families and older drivers, independence remains possible as long as they meet health and safety standards.
