Car Rental in Spain - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Spain is highly recommended for exploring beyond major cities, particularly for countryside tours, coastal drives, and visiting smaller towns and villages where public transport is limited. Spain drives on the right side of the road, making it comfortable for most international visitors. Road quality is generally excellent, especially on autopistas (toll motorways) and autovías (free highways), though some rural mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Car rental is ideal for road trips along routes like the Costa Brava, Andalusian white villages, or northern Spain's green coast, offering flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints and hidden gems. However, avoid renting for city-based stays in Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville, where parking is expensive, traffic congestion is significant, and excellent public transport makes cars unnecessary. Historic city centers often have restricted access zones and confusing one-way systems. Driving in Spain is straightforward for tourists, though be prepared for assertive local driving styles and strictly enforced speed cameras. International visitors need a valid license (IDP recommended for non-EU licenses). Check current rental rates and availability through booking platforms, as prices vary significantly by season and location.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Generally recommended for non-EU license holders visiting Spain. Check current requirements with your rental agency as acceptance varies by country of origin.

Valid Driver's License

EU licenses are typically accepted. Non-EU visitors should verify their home country license acceptance with rental agencies before travel.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some agencies setting higher age limits (23-25) for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Credit Card for Deposit

A credit card in the main driver's name is generally required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for deposits at most rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included in rentals, but coverage levels vary. Consider additional collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection options based on your needs.

Driving Experience

Many rental agencies require drivers to have held their license for a minimum period, typically 1-2 years. Requirements vary by agency and vehicle type.

Airport rentals in Spain typically offer the widest selection and competitive rates from international agencies, though city locations may have better deals from local Spanish companies - compare both options and book in advance during peak season.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify the fuel policy (full-to-full is standard), and confirm you have the required documentation including your license, insurance papers, and emergency contact numbers.

GPS navigation is essential for Spain's complex city centers and rural areas - consider renting one from the agency or ensure your phone has offline maps downloaded, as mobile data may be limited in remote regions.

Note that many Spanish city centers have restricted zones (like Madrid's 'zona de bajas emisiones') and parking can be expensive or scarce - research parking options at your destinations in advance and keep coins for meters.

When returning the car, allow extra time to refuel at a nearby station if required, take photos of the odometer and fuel gauge, and get a receipt confirming the return condition to avoid potential disputes.

Spain enforces strict drink-driving laws with random police checkpoints common on highways and city exits, especially during weekends and holidays - the legal limit is lower than many countries at 0.5g/L (0.25g/L for new drivers).

Urban areas like Madrid and Barcelona have extensive Low Emission Zones (ZBE) requiring special permits or stickers - check restrictions before driving into city centers to avoid significant fines.

Spanish drivers typically use highways aggressively with high speeds and close following distances - maintain defensive driving practices and note that many local drivers may not signal lane changes consistently.

Mountain routes and coastal roads can have sharp curves with limited visibility and variable conditions - exercise caution in areas like the Pyrenees or Costa Brava, particularly during winter months or after rain when roads may be slick.