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You’ve booked your flight, sorted your rental car, and you’re ready to hit the Spanish roads. But then comes that confusing bit – do you actually need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Spain, or is it one of those travel myths that refuses to die? Let’s clear the air once and for all. If you’re from the EU or EEA, relax—you can drive anywhere in Spain with your regular licence. No translations, no IDP, no paperwork hassle. Spain recognises EU and EEA licences automatically, as long as they’re valid and readable. Now, if you’re British, things get a little more interesting post-Brexit—but the good news is, for most short visits, you don’t need an IDP either. A UK photocard licence works just fine. The only time it becomes tricky is if you still have one of those old paper licences, or if you’re renting from a company that insists on seeing an IDP at the counter. Yes, some do—and they can legally refuse to hand over the keys without one. For everyone else – the U.S., Canada, Australia, or anywhere outside Europe – that’s where the IDP starts to matter. Spanish law says your foreign licence must be either in Spanish or accompanied by an official translation. The IDP acts as that translation, which is why it’s strongly recommended. It’s not technically a “licence”, just a booklet confirming what your home licence says – but it could save you a fine, or a very awkward roadside chat with the Guardia Civil. “Permits written in Spanish or with an official translation are valid,” explains Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT). “Otherwise, you must have a recognised international permit.” That means if your licence is in English, French, or another Latin-script language, you’ll probably be fine – but if it’s in Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese characters, definitely bring the IDP. So, what happens if you don’t? In most cases, if the police stop you and your licence isn’t in Spanish or translated, it’s treated as a minor administrative issue, not a criminal one – but you could still get a fine, and if you’re renting, the insurance might not cover you. That’s a headache worth avoiding. For longer stays, things change again. Once you officially live in Spain (usually after six months), your foreign licence stops being valid, and you’ll need to exchange it for a Spanish one. Spain has agreements with many countries, but not all—so check before you move. What car rental companies don’t tell you Here’s where many travellers get caught out. The law might not require an IDP – but rental companies can make their own rules. Europcar, for instance, clearly states that drivers from the U.S. or Canada must present both their national licence and an IDP to rent in Spain. Others have similar clauses buried deep in their terms and conditions. In other words: even if it’s not legally mandatory, your rental contract might make it so. That’s why countless Reddit and Tripadvisor threads are full of travellers saying, “We were refused a car because we didn’t have an IDP.” So, when in doubt? Email your rental company before you fly. A quick “Just confirming if you require an International Driving Permit for a [country] licence in Spain?” can save a lot of trouble. Which IDP do you need? Spain follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. For Brits and most Europeans, that means your IDP (if needed) is valid for up to three years, or until your licence expires. For Americans, the AAA-issued IDP is valid for one year. Applying is simple: in the UK, you can pick one up at the Post Office for £5.50. In the U.S., only AAA and AATA are authorised to issue them – don’t fall for scam websites selling fake “digital” permits. In Spain, residents can get theirs through the DGT for a small fee, and it’s valid for one year. The quick checklist Before you hit the road, here’s what you should have on hand in Spain: Your valid driver’s licence (and IDP if needed) Your passport or national ID Insurance documents Your rental agreement and emergency numbers And yes – always wear your seatbelt, no matter how short the trip. Final verdict: Do you really need an International Driving Permit in Spain? If your licence is from the EU, EEA, or UK (photocard)y – ou’re good to go. If it’s from anywhere else, or not in Spanish or Latin letters, carry an IDP. And if you’re renting a car, check your provider’s small print before you travel. It’s a tiny document that could save you from a massive headache – and possibly from being stranded at the airport with no car. Because in Spain, as many seasoned travellers will tell you, “better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.”
