Driving schools in Catalonia are calling for a major overhaul of driver education. Consequently, they propose introducing specific courses designed to teach motorists how to handle vehicles in snow and ice. The Federació d’Autoescoles de Catalunya (Federation of Driving Schools of Catalonia) believes that practical training on fitting snow chains and driving in adverse conditions is now essential. This follows recent extreme weather alerts and worker safety protocols.
The Austrian Model for Mandatory Winter Driving Training
Raül Viladrich, president of the Federation, advocates for the implementation of the “Austrian model”. Under this system, obtaining a driving licence is not the end of the learning process. Instead, new drivers must complete three complementary courses within one year of passing their test.
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Viladrich argues these sessions are crucial for safety. In Austria, they cover winter driving, awareness, new technologies, and advanced driver assistance systems. The proposal comes after a winter marked by successive storms that significantly impacted mobility across the region.
Adapting to New EU Directives
The Federation views the new European driving licence directive, approved last October, as the perfect legislative vehicle to introduce these changes. They suggest that for novice drivers, demonstrating proficiency in winter driving could become a requirement for validating their licence.
Currently, theoretical classes in Catalonia explain the existence of different tyre types and the theory of snow chains. However, Viladrich points out a significant gap between theory and practice. Therefore, drivers rarely get the chance to practice these skills until they face a crisis on the road.
“Many drivers have not used these chain or tyre systems,” Viladrich stated. He warned that this lack of experience means they are not prepared “for this type of situation.”
Real-World Consequences
The need for better training was highlighted during the snowfalls in January 2026. Viladrich recounted incidents between Solsona and La Seu d’Urgell where students witnessed the stark difference proper equipment makes.
“They saw how many vehicles were stopped on the shoulder, did not have chains, and others in which drivers had to install them,” he noted. Meanwhile, vehicles equipped with M+S (mud and snow) tyres—often called contact tyres—continued their journeys without incident.
Beyond mandatory training, the Federation recommends widespread awareness campaigns regarding winter tyres, particularly for those driving in the Pyrenees. While winter tyres are mandatory in several European nations, they remain optional in Spain. However, Viladrich emphasised that they significantly improve traction and vehicle behaviour, even if they are not a direct substitute for chains in all scenarios.
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