Car Rental in Spain: Find and Compare Deals

You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the renter’s name for the deposit, and your ID or passport for identification. Non-EU travelers also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their original license. Make sure your documents are valid for the entire rental period. Some rental companies might also request proof of travel plans or accommodation details. Double-check requirements with your chosen company before booking to avoid delays at the counter.

The minimum age is usually between 21 and 23, depending on the rental company. Drivers under 25 often face a young driver surcharge, typically from €10 to €25 per day. Some companies may restrict younger drivers from renting luxury or high-end vehicles. Always check the rental provider’s age policy before booking to understand any additional charges or restrictions.

You can rent a car in Spain with a non-EU license, but you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP translates your license details into Spanish, making it valid for rental purposes and driving. Ensure your original license and IDP are current and valid for the trip. Without these, rental companies may deny you a vehicle.

Spain has many toll roads, especially on highways (autopistas). Payment can be made at toll booths using cash, credit cards, or electronic toll devices like Via-T. The average cost is around €1 per 8 km. Plan your route in advance to avoid unexpected tolls or consider alternative routes marked as “free roads” (carreteras gratuitas).

Cross-border travel is allowed by most rental companies, but you need prior approval. Some companies charge additional fees or require extra insurance for international travel. Restrictions might apply to luxury vehicles or cars rented in islands like the Canary Islands or Balearic Islands. Confirm cross-border permissions and costs in your rental agreement to avoid fines or complications.

Basic insurance, such as third-party liability coverage, is usually included in the rental price. However, this may come with high deductibles. Additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Full Coverage are available for an extra fee. These reduce your financial responsibility in case of damage or theft. Read the terms carefully and verify if your travel insurance or credit card covers rental cars to avoid duplicate charges.

Spain has toll roads (autopistas) marked with an "AP" prefix. Fees average €1 per 8 km (5 miles) and can be paid using cash, credit cards, or electronic tags (Telepeaje). Ensure your rental car is equipped with a tag if you plan to use toll roads frequently. Some tolls also have manual booths for payment. Avoid fines by carrying cash or confirming payment methods in advance.

In cities, blue zones indicate pay-and-display parking, which costs around €0.70–€1 per hour. Yellow lines mean parking is prohibited. In rural areas, parking is often free. Many cities also have private parking garages offering secure but pricier options. Always read local signs to avoid fines and note that parking is typically free on Sundays and public holidays in marked zones.

Most companies offer one-way car rentals in within the Spain, allowing you to pick up the car in one location and return it in another. This is ideal for road trips or airport transfers. However, one-way rentals often incur additional fees based on distance and destination. Confirm the drop-off process and costs with your rental provider when booking to ensure smooth planning for your trip.

Spanish law mandates child safety seats for children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters (4 feet 6 inches). Rental companies provide these seats for an additional fee, usually around €10–€15 per day. Pre-booking ensures availability, especially during peak seasons. Confirm that the seat meets legal standards and is installed correctly before starting your journey.