International Driving Permit in Spain

Spain beckons travelers with its sun-soaked Mediterranean coastline, historic cities like Barcelona and Madrid, and scenic drives through Andalusia. Whether you're planning to explore the Costa del Sol, navigate mountain villages in the Pyrenees, or enjoy a leisurely drive through wine country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is essential for foreign visitors planning to drive in Spain.

Do I Need an International Driving Permit in Spain?

If you hold a driving license from outside the European Union or European Economic Area, Spain legally requires you to have an International Driving Permit. This applies to tourists and short-term visitors planning to drive in the country.

You need an IDP in Spain if:

• Your license is from a non-EU/EEA country
• Your license is not in Spanish or does not use Latin alphabet
• You plan to rent a car in Spain
• You'll be driving for tourism or business purposes
• You want to avoid fines from Spanish traffic authorities

EU and EEA license holders do not need an IDP and can drive with their home country license. However, if you're from outside these regions, having an IDP is mandatory and rental companies will not rent to you without one.

Documents Required for Your IDP

1. Valid Driver's License: Current license from your home country
2. Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos
3. Application Form: Completed accurately
4. Payment: Application fee
5. Passport: Valid passport for identification

How to Apply for an IDP for Spain

Step 1: Confirm Requirements

Verify that you need an IDP based on your license origin and travel plans.

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Gather your driver's license, photos, and identification documents.

Step 3: Complete Application

Fill out the application form through an authorized provider, ensuring accuracy.

Step 4: Pay and Submit

Submit payment and documentation through secure channels.

Step 5: Receive Your IDP

Digital IDPs available in 24-48 hours; physical copies in 5-10 days via shipping.

Driving Rules in Spain

General Traffic Rules

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
• Children under 135cm must use appropriate child restraints
• Mobile phones: Hands-free only while driving
• Headlights: Dipped headlights required in tunnels and poor visibility

Speed Limits in Spain

• Urban areas: 20-50 km/h (12-31 mph) depending on road type
• Rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
• Motorways (autopistas/autovías): 120 km/h (75 mph)
• Speed cameras are common and fines are strictly enforced

Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.03% for drivers with less than 2 years of experience or professional drivers. Spain has zero tolerance for drinking and driving, with severe penalties including fines and license suspension.

Toll Roads (Autopistas de Peaje)

Many Spanish motorways are toll roads. Payment can be made by cash, credit card, or electronic toll device. Costs vary by distance and road. Budget for tolls when planning long-distance drives.

Renting a Car in Spain

Major rental companies (Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt) operate throughout Spain and require an IDP for non-EU drivers. Minimum age is typically 21, with young driver surcharges for those under 25. Premium vehicles may require drivers aged 25+.

Insurance: Third-party liability insurance is mandatory and included in rental rates. Consider additional coverage like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) for peace of mind.

Parking: Spanish cities have strict parking regulations. Blue zones require payment during business hours, and illegal parking can result in towing.

Important Driving Tips for Spain

• Siesta time: Smaller towns may have limited services during afternoon siesta hours (2-5 PM)
• Round about s: Vehicles in the roundabout have right of way; yield before entering
• Mountain roads: Take care on narrow mountain roads in regions like Andalusia and the Pyrenees
• Emergency number: Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, medical, fire)
• Reflective vests: Required in your vehicle; must be worn if you exit the car on a highway
• Warning triangles: Two triangles required in case of breakdown