A traffic fine forces you to decide quickly, because deadlines are short and one option rules out the other. This is what the DGT (Spanish traffic authority) states on its online office.
You have 20 calendar days, counted from the day after notification. Notification counts from when the officer hands you the ticket or when you receive it at your address or electronic address. If you can't be found at your address, the penalty is published on the Single Edictal Board (TEU).
If you pay with the 50% reduction, you are taken to waive your right to make submissions. And the other way round: if you make a submission, you lose the discount. If it is rejected, you will have to pay 100%. Before deciding, see whether you have solid arguments (wrong number plate, road signs, defective notification) or whether paying with the discount makes more sense.
You can pay the fine without discount within the 15 days after notification of the penalty decision, or file an appeal for reconsideration (recurso de reposición). This appeal is optional and the deadline is one month from the day after notification of the decision.
This article is for information only and does not replace personalised advice. Always check the notice you received, which is what sets your deadlines.
Source: DGT online office: filing a submission or appeal against a fine. Last reviewed: 23 October 2026.