Planning a vacation in Spain? If you’re considering renting a vehicle during your trip, read on to find out all the requirements and get some useful tips for driving in Spain.

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Quick summary .

US drivers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside a valid license to rent and drive in Spain, so get one through AAA before your trip.

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 , even though Spain’s legal driving age is 18.

Spain drives on the right (same as the US), but watch out for narrow streets, pedestrian-only zones and speed limits posted in kilometers per hour.

The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% , lower than the US limit of 0.08%, so play it extra safe if you’re having wine with dinner.

Only 20% of Spanish highways have tolls , and you can pay with cash or card at toll booths.

In this article

Driving in Spain checklist.

Do I need an international driving permit in Spain?

Renting a car in Spain.

Is driving in Spain easy?

Rules of the road in…