Car Rental Requirements in Spain: What Do You Need to Rent a Car?

Discover what you need to rent a car in Spain, from driving licences and minimum age requirements to identification, payment methods and insurance.

Car Rental Requirements in Spain: What Do You Need to Rent a Car?

Renting a car in Spain gives you the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist routes. You can drive along the Costa del Sol, visit small Andalusian villages, discover mountain landscapes or plan a road trip between several cities without depending on public transport schedules.

Before booking, however, it is important to understand the requirements. You may need a valid driving licence, identification, a suitable payment method and enough driving experience to meet the rental provider’s conditions. The exact rules depend on your licence, age, vehicle and the platform or company you choose.

This guide explains what you need to rent a car in Spain, how the rules apply to international visitors and what to check before booking through a car rental or peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace such as Juuh.

1. What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Spain?

Although requirements vary between providers, most rental bookings involve several basic checks.

| Requirement | What to check | |---|---| | Driving licence | It must be valid and legally recognised for driving in Spain | | Minimum age | Depends on the rental provider and vehicle category | | Driving experience | Some providers require a licence held for one or more years | | Identification | A passport, national ID or other accepted document | | Payment method | Check which cards or payment methods the provider accepts | | Vehicle conditions | Review the listing, rental terms, deposit and insurance information |

Meeting the legal requirements for driving in Spain does not automatically mean you qualify to rent every vehicle. A rental provider can set additional eligibility conditions, and some vehicles may have stricter age or experience requirements.

The safest approach is to check both the rules that apply to your driving licence and the conditions attached to your chosen vehicle before confirming a booking.

2. How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Spain?

One of the most common questions is whether you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Spain.

The answer depends on the provider.

Spain’s general minimum driving age for a passenger car is 18, provided the driver meets the applicable licensing requirements. However, rental companies often impose a higher minimum age.

For example, Enterprise Spain requires renters to be over 21 and to have held their driving licence for more than one year. Avis also generally requires drivers to be at least 21 and to have held a valid licence for at least one year. Higher age limits can apply to certain vehicles. Enterprise and Avis publish their respective requirements.

This distinction matters: 21 is a common commercial rental requirement, not a universal legal minimum for every rental arrangement in Spain.

Can you rent a car in Spain if you are under 25?

Potentially, yes. Some rental providers accept drivers aged 21–24, but may charge an additional young-driver fee or restrict access to certain vehicle categories.

Before booking, check:

• The minimum age for the specific car.
• Whether a minimum period of driving experience is required.
• Whether an additional fee applies to younger drivers.
• Whether the vehicle’s insurance and rental conditions impose further restrictions.

Do not assume that eligibility for a small economy car automatically means eligibility for a premium car, sports car or larger vehicle.

Is there a maximum age for renting a car?

There is no single maximum rental age that applies to every provider in Spain. Individual companies may have their own conditions, so older drivers should review the relevant rental terms rather than assume that a particular age automatically prevents them from booking.

3. What Driving Licence Do You Need?

Your driving licence is one of the most important documents to check before renting a car.

It must be valid for the vehicle category you intend to drive and recognised under the rules applicable in Spain. Rental providers may also require that you have held a full licence for a minimum period.

Driving in Spain with an EU or EEA licence

If your licence was issued in an EU or EEA country, it is generally recognised in Spain while it remains valid. You should still check that your licence covers the vehicle category and meets the rental provider’s requirements.

For example, a visitor with a valid licence issued in France, Germany, Italy or Greece will generally be able to use that licence to drive a standard passenger car in Spain, subject to the applicable rules and rental conditions.

Renting a car with a non-EU licence

If your licence was issued outside the EU or EEA, the requirements depend on the issuing country, the format of the licence, the applicable international agreements and whether you are visiting or residing in Spain.

Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) explains that certain foreign licences are recognised under specific conditions. An International Driving Permit may be required or recommended depending on the circumstances. Where needed, it must be carried alongside your original foreign licence and is not a replacement for it.

Check the official DGT guidance on foreign driving licences before travelling.

Do you need an International Driving Permit?

Not every international visitor needs one. The answer depends on where your licence was issued and the rules that apply to it.

Before your trip:

1. Confirm that your national licence is valid for driving in Spain.
2. Check whether an International Driving Permit or official translation is required.
3. Carry your original driving licence.
4. Confirm whether your rental provider has additional documentation requirements.

A rental company may apply its own document checks even when a licence is legally valid for driving in Spain.

4. Which Documents Should You Prepare?

Preparing your documents in advance can make the booking and vehicle collection process much easier.

Driving licence

Bring your valid driving licence and ensure that it meets the relevant legal and provider requirements. If an International Driving Permit is necessary, carry that as well as your original licence.

Passport or national ID

You may need a passport or another accepted identity document. International visitors should check the provider’s requirements before booking, especially if their identification details differ from those on their driving licence.

Booking and payment details

Keep your booking confirmation and the information needed to complete payment. Depending on the provider, you may need an accepted credit or debit card for the rental price, a security deposit or both.

Payment and deposit requirements are not identical across all rental services. Confirm the accepted payment methods and the name requirements for the card before you book.

Documents relating to the vehicle

A car driven in Spain must have the required vehicle documentation. The DGT identifies the driving licence, vehicle registration document and technical inspection card (ITV) as essential documents to carry when driving. These requirements also apply to rental vehicles.

The vehicle owner or provider should ensure the car is properly documented. As a renter, check that the necessary documents are available in the vehicle before starting your journey.

See the DGT guide to vehicle documents.

5. Do You Need a Credit Card to Rent a Car?

Not always, but you should never assume that every payment method will be accepted.

Traditional rental companies may require a credit card or accept certain debit cards under specific conditions. Requirements can differ by location, vehicle category and booking type.

Peer-to-peer car-sharing arrangements may use a different payment process. The available payment methods and any deposit requirements depend on the platform’s rules and the individual booking conditions.

Before confirming your reservation, check:

• Whether credit cards, debit cards or other payment methods are accepted.
• Whether the payment card must be in the main driver's name.
• Whether a security deposit is required.
• How the deposit is held and released.
• Whether any additional charges may apply.

A security deposit is not the same as the rental price. It is a separate amount held according to the applicable terms and may be subject to a claim or other permitted adjustment. Read the deposit conditions carefully so you know what to expect.

6. What About Insurance Requirements?

Before driving any vehicle in Spain, you should ensure that the vehicle has valid compulsory motor insurance covering the required third-party liability. Spanish law requires motor vehicles to have the applicable compulsory insurance.

However, the existence of compulsory insurance does not mean every possible loss or damage is covered. The scope of cover, exclusions, excesses and any additional protections depend on the actual policy and rental arrangement.

Before booking, check:

• Whether the vehicle has valid insurance for the intended use.
• What the policy covers and excludes.
• Whether you may be responsible for an excess or other costs.
• What happens if the car is damaged during the rental.
• How incidents must be reported.

For peer-to-peer car sharing, it is particularly important to confirm that the vehicle’s insurance policy permits the intended rental use. Do not assume that an ordinary private-use policy automatically covers every car-sharing arrangement.

On Juuh, hosts are responsible for having valid insurance information for their vehicles, and the platform checks the presence and validity of that information. This should not be interpreted as a promise that Juuh provides a separate additional insurance policy to renters. Always review the applicable booking conditions and insurance details.

You can read the official Spanish government information about compulsory motor insurance.

7. Are Requirements Different for Traditional Car Rental and Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing?

The basic legal requirements for driving in Spain still apply, but the booking process and contractual conditions can differ.

Traditional rental companies usually operate through a standardised fleet and rental agreement. They may set minimum ages, minimum driving experience, card requirements and restrictions by vehicle category.

Peer-to-peer car sharing connects people who need a vehicle with owners who make their cars available for rental. The experience may involve browsing individual vehicle listings and reviewing the conditions attached to a specific car.

When comparing options, look beyond the headline price. Check the eligibility rules, insurance arrangements, deposit, mileage allowance, cancellation policy, vehicle location and handover instructions.

What should you check on Juuh?

Juuh is a peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace in Spain. When considering a vehicle, review its listing and booking conditions carefully.

Pay particular attention to:

• Vehicle details: Make sure the model, transmission and listed features suit your plans.
• Rental price: Check the price and the dates covered by your booking.
• Mileage allowance: Confirm how many kilometres are included and whether extra mileage costs apply.
• Security deposit: Check the amount and the conditions for its release.
• Insurance information: Review the relevant coverage and requirements.
• Cancellation policy: Understand the applicable terms before confirming.
• Collection and return: Check where and how the vehicle will be handed over and returned.

These checks help you understand the terms of the specific booking. Do not assume that every vehicle or host offers identical conditions.

8. Can Tourists Rent a Car in Spain?

Yes, tourists can rent cars in Spain if they meet the relevant legal requirements and the rental provider’s conditions.

For international visitors, the most important step is to verify the validity of their driving licence before travelling. A licence accepted in one country is not automatically accepted in every other country under identical conditions.

Tourists should also prepare their identification, confirm the accepted payment method and review the rental terms before booking.

If you are planning a road trip through Andalusia, for example, you might want a small car for exploring Seville or a larger vehicle for travelling with family and luggage. The type of car you choose may affect the price and eligibility requirements.

Booking in advance gives you more time to compare available vehicles, check the conditions and choose an option that fits your itinerary.

9. What Should You Check Before Driving Away?

Once your booking is confirmed, take a few minutes to prepare for the journey.

Before collecting the car

• Confirm the collection time and location.
• Bring the required driving licence and identification.
• Make sure your payment method meets the booking requirements.
• Review the deposit and cancellation conditions.
• Read the vehicle’s insurance and mileage terms.

When you receive the car

• Inspect the vehicle inside and outside.
• Photograph any existing scratches, dents or other damage.
• Check that the vehicle details match your booking.
• Confirm the fuel or battery level and the return requirements.
• Make sure you know how to contact the host or provider if something goes wrong.

Documenting the vehicle’s condition at the beginning of the rental can help avoid misunderstandings later. If you notice damage that is not recorded, raise it with the relevant person before driving away.

While driving in Spain

Spain drives on the right-hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory, and drivers must follow posted speed limits and local traffic rules. Mobile phones must not be handled while driving.

If you plan to travel between cities or explore rural areas, check your route, parking options and any tolls or access restrictions in advance.

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced drivers can overlook a small detail when renting a car abroad. These are some common mistakes worth avoiding.

Assuming that 21 is the legal minimum everywhere. The legal minimum driving age and a rental provider’s minimum age are different things. Always check the specific conditions.

Assuming every foreign licence is accepted. Confirm the rules that apply to your licence before booking, especially if it was issued outside the EU or EEA.

Forgetting the driving-experience requirement. Some providers require a licence held for at least one year or longer.

Checking only the rental price. Deposits, mileage limits, insurance conditions and other charges can affect the overall cost.

Assuming all insurance covers the same risks. Read the applicable policy and booking terms rather than relying on a general statement about insurance.

Ignoring the vehicle's collection instructions. Confirm where the car is located, how the handover works and what you must do at return.

A few minutes of preparation can help you avoid unnecessary delays and make your trip more straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to rent a car in Spain?

You generally need a valid driving licence recognised in Spain, accepted identification and a payment method that meets the provider’s conditions. Depending on the company and vehicle, you may also need to meet minimum age and driving-experience requirements.

Do you have to be 21 to rent a car in Spain?

Not under a universal rule. Spain’s general minimum driving age for a passenger car is 18, but many rental companies set their own minimum age at 21 or higher. Always check the conditions of the specific provider and vehicle.

How long must you have held your driving licence?

This depends on the rental provider. Some companies require at least one year of driving experience, while other conditions may apply to particular vehicles or locations.

Can I rent a car in Spain with a UK or US driving licence?

It depends on the applicable rules and the details of your licence. Check the current Spanish guidance for your country of issue and whether an International Driving Permit or other supporting document is necessary. Your rental provider may also have its own document requirements.

Can I rent a car in Spain with an EU driving licence?

A valid EU or EEA driving licence is generally recognised in Spain, provided it covers the vehicle category and meets the applicable requirements. The rental provider may still require a minimum age and a certain period of driving experience.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Spain?

Not necessarily. Some providers accept certain debit cards, while others impose more specific payment requirements. Check the payment and deposit conditions before booking.

Is insurance included when renting a car in Spain?

The vehicle must have the legally required compulsory insurance, but the extent of cover and any additional protections depend on the policy and rental arrangement. Review the insurance details, exclusions and excess before booking.

Can tourists rent a car in Spain?

Yes, provided they meet the relevant licence, identification and rental-provider requirements. International visitors should check whether their driving licence is recognised and whether supporting documents are needed.

What should I check before booking a car on Juuh?

Review the individual vehicle listing, rental price, mileage allowance, security deposit, insurance information, cancellation policy and collection instructions. Confirm any eligibility requirements that apply to your booking before you reserve the car.

Ready to Explore Spain?

Understanding the requirements before you book makes it easier to choose the right car and prepare for your trip. Check your driving licence, confirm the provider’s conditions, review the deposit and insurance details, and make sure you know how the vehicle handover works.

With Juuh, you can explore available cars shared by owners in Spain and compare the options that suit your plans.

Find a car that fits your journey on Juuh, review the booking conditions and get ready to discover Spain your way.