How to rent a car in spain as an american?
If you’re an American looking to rent a car in Spain, the process can seem daunting. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll go over all the essential information you need to know when renting a car in Spain as an American. From what documents to bring to what companies offer the best deals, we have all the details for you right here. So let’s get started!
Driving Age in Spain
The legal driving age in Spain is 18 years old, but most car rental companies require you to be 21 or older. It is also important to note that some car hire suppliers may have additional age requirements or years of driving experience. To drive legally in Spain, you will need a valid driver's license, identity card, and/or passport. If you are an American driver in Spain, you will also need an international driving permit. Additionally, some rental companies may require proof of insurance before renting a car. Be sure to check for any additional fees that may be required before booking your rental car.
Required Documents
If you're an American looking to rent a car in Spain, it's important to know what documents you need in order to do so. It's also important to be aware of the legal driving age in Spain, which is 18 years old. You'll need to bring your driver's license, passport and a major credit card as well as an international driving permit if you don't have an EU license. Additionally, you will be asked for proof of address and may need to provide proof of insurance. It's also important to remember that automatic and manual transmissions are available, so be sure to ask the rental car company about this before making any commitments.
Manual vs. Automatic Transmission
Since Spain is part of the European Union, most of the rental cars in Spain have manual transmission. Automatic cars are the exception, not the rule, and they come with a much higher price tag. When booking with Sunny Cars, you should specify whether you need a manual or an automatic transmission car. Renting an automatic car in Spain is more expensive than a manual one, so be sure to weigh the costs before making your decision.
EU Driving License Requirement
For tourists driving in Spain, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in addition to a valid foreign driver's license. US citizens wanting to rent a car in Spain should apply for and get their IDP before they go. A passport and driver's license are all that is needed for most European countries, but some also require an IDP. Foreign visitors can rent a car and drive in Spain with a valid foreign driver's license for up to six months.
Book From Home
Renting a car in Spain can be an excellent way to explore the country, but it's important to know the requirements and restrictions before you book. Before you head overseas, make sure you look into the best deals at major rental companies' home websites, such as Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, and Enterprise. Most car rental companies in Spain will require you to be 21 or over and to have held a license in your home country. For the best deal on long-term rentals, it pays to book in advance from home. That way you can get the car type you want and be sure that it's available when you arrive.
One-Way Rentals
For those looking to explore Spain at their own leisure, one-way rentals are a great option. With SIXT rent a car, you can drop off your rental car at another office, allowing you to travel freely. Keep in mind that some companies may charge additional fees for one-way rentals, but it can be worth it for the freedom it provides.
Age Restrictions
In order to rent a car in Spain, renters must meet the minimum age requirement of the car rental company and the legal driving age in Spain. The legal driving age in Spain is 18 years old, however, the most common minimum age to rent a car in Spain is 21 years old. Some car rental companies may allow drivers as young as 19 to rent a vehicle, but strict age restrictions may apply. It is important to check with the rental company before booking to ensure that you meet their age requirements. Additionally, you will need to provide a valid driver's license and other required documents to complete the rental process.
International Driving Permit
For American travelers, it is required by law to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan on driving in Spain. An IDP is an official, multi-language translation of your US driver's license and can be obtained for $20.00 from the American Automobile Touring Alliance. The application for an IDP must be made by mail and once approved, it is valid for up to one year. It is important to note that if you are pulled over by Spanish police, you must have your IDP along with your driver's license and passport.
Proof of Insurance
Renting a car in Spain is a great way to explore the country and its beautiful scenery. Before you do, it's important to understand the rules and regulations when it comes to renting a car in Spain as an American. One of the most important aspects is proof of insurance. In Spain, unlimited third-party liability insurance is legally required on all rental vehicles, and fortunately, this is usually included in the rental price. Additionally, you'll need some form of proof of insurance from your own auto insurer, as most U.S. auto insurers won't cover you while you're driving abroad. An International Driver's Permit is also a good idea for non-EU drivers, which can be obtained through AAA. Make sure you have all these documents on hand before you rent your car to avoid any surprises later on.
Additional Fees
Before making a booking, travelers should be aware of the additional fees that may be charged when renting a car in Spain. Most car rental companies will charge an extra fee if the driver is under 25 years old. It is also required by law that you hold an International Driving Permit if you are a non-EU resident. To avoid any extra charges, it is best to read through the rental agreement before signing. Additionally, make sure to check for any hidden fees that may be charged by the rental company.