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What is an International Driving Permit IDP or International Driving License?

What is the difference between an International Driving Permit (IDP) and an International Driving License (IDL)?

An International Driving Permit IDP is a small grey booklet marginally larger than a passport containing a translation of your original driving license in 10 languages, including English, French, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, and Spanish. It is accepted by 141 countries worldwide and is usually valid for one year. With IDPA, your International Driving Permit IDP is issued in compliance with international road traffic conventions and must always be used alongside your original international driving license (national license).

On the other hand, an international driving license (IDL) on its own is not legally accepted in many countries and cannot replace a legally issued International Driving Permit IDP. Authorities and car rental companies in Spain rely on the International Driving Permit IDP as the officially recognized translation of your license.

How does an International Driving Permit IDP work in Spain?

Spain has strict laws when it comes to international drivers. You can only drive on Spanish roads if you have a valid international driving license from your home country. In most cases, you are also required to carry an International Driving Permit IDP. You may use your International Driving Permit IDP as a supporting identification document while traveling. If your driver’s license is in a foreign language, the International Driving Permit IDP issued by IDPA serves as the official translation of your license and is widely accepted by traffic authorities and rental agencies.

How do you apply now for idp online for Spain?

With IDPA, you can apply now for idp online in just a few simple steps through our website. The application is fast, secure, and fully digital. You only need to upload your valid international driving license, submit a clear personal photo, and complete the form. IDPA will then issue your International Driving Permit IDP for use in Spain and many other countries worldwide.

How long will it take to receive an International Driving Permit IDP in Spain?

With IDPA Express Order, you can receive a digital International Driving Permit IDP in as little as 20 minutes. Standard digital delivery usually takes up to 2 hours to reach your email inbox.

You may also request a printed International Driving Permit IDP to be delivered to your doorstep. The estimated delivery time ranges between 2 to 30 days, depending on your selected shipping method and destination.

United Nations Agreements on Road Traffic

There have been three international automobile traffic conventions: 1926 in Paris, 1949 in Geneva, and 1968 in Vienna. Most countries, including Spain, have agreed to recognize International Driving Permit IDP documents as legal and valid under these conventions. IDPA issues International Driving Permit IDP documents in accordance with these international agreements.

Benefits of Carrying an International Driving Permit IDP in Spain

Functionality as an ID

An International Driving Permit IDP is a valuable travel document because it also serves as an additional identification document. This is especially useful if you prefer to keep your passport secure for safety reasons. An International Driving Permit IDP can often be used instead of a national ID card, particularly when your national ID is in a language not commonly used internationally.

Quicker traffic authority stops

Carrying an International Driving Permit IDP ensures that police officers in Spain can quickly verify your driving credentials and personal details. This significantly reduces delays during routine checks, emergencies, and motor accidents, making your journey smoother and stress-free.

Car rental companies

Many car rental companies in Spain may hesitate to rent vehicles to drivers who do not have an International Driving Permit IDP. Since an International Driving Permit IDP is an internationally recognized document, most rental agencies accept it without hesitation. Having your International Driving Permit IDP from IDPA helps you avoid delays and ensures a smooth car rental experience.

Laws requiring an International Driving Permit IDP

You must have an International Driving Permit IDP along with a valid international driving license to legally drive in Spain if your license was issued outside the EU/EEA or is not in Spanish. Since Spain was contracted to the Vienna Motor Traffic Convention in 1968, it accepts the International Driving Permit IDP for one year, provided your original license remains valid.

Driving Requirements for Non-Citizens in Spain

Short-term visitors vs. residents

Short-term visitors will find using their original international driving license together with an International Driving Permit IDP ideal for driving in Spain. For individuals staying for longer periods, obtaining a Spanish driving license may become necessary depending on residency status and bilateral agreements.

When should I get a Spanish Driver’s License?

You may want to obtain a Spanish driving license if you plan to move to Spain on a mid- to long-term basis. Long-term residents often find that holding a local license simplifies renewals, insurance, and administrative procedures compared to repeatedly renewing their International Driving Permit IDP.

How to get a Spanish driver’s license

Spain has reciprocal agreements with more than 20 countries for exchanging driving licenses. These agreements can change, so applicants must always confirm the current requirements with Spanish authorities.

Citizens from specific countries may exchange their licenses with minimal testing, while others, including citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, must complete both theoretical and practical driving tests. During this process, your International Driving Permit IDP remains essential for legal driving.

Renewing Your International Driving Permit IDP or Original Driver’s License While in Spain

Renewing Your International Driving Permit IDP

You can easily renew your International Driving Permit IDP with IDPA while in Spain by using the apply now for idp online service. The process is fast and requires only your valid license and updated personal information.

Renewing Your Original Driver’s License

Since the International Driving Permit IDP is not a standalone document, you must always have a valid international driving license to continue driving. If your original license expires while you are abroad, you must renew it through your home country’s licensing authority, often using online renewal services.

Car Rental in Spain

Requirements for car rental

To rent a car in Spain, you need a valid international driving license along with a valid International Driving Permit IDP. Drivers under 25 usually pay a young driver surcharge. Most rental agencies require payment using a credit or debit card in the main driver’s name.

Deposit and costs for car rental

All car rental clients must pay a refundable deposit based on the vehicle category. Deposits typically range from £250 to £1,000. Weekly rental costs vary, but economy vehicles can be rented at very competitive rates. Your International Driving Permit IDP helps ensure your rental process is fast and hassle-free.

Car Insurance

Driving in Spain requires mandatory insurance coverage. The minimum requirement is third-party insurance, which covers damage to other persons, vehicles, animals, or property. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle. Comprehensive insurance and excess-reduction options are highly recommended when driving with an International Driving Permit IDP.

Travel Insurance

Although Spain is among the safest countries in Europe, it is still highly recommended to carry travel insurance in addition to auto insurance. A suitable policy should include:

Medical expense coverage

Emergency dental coverage

Lost or stolen property insurance

Rental car excess protection

Funeral and repatriation costs in extreme cases

Driving and Safety in Spain

Where can you get a driving handbook with the road rules?

Spanish driving rules are available online through official and private Spanish driving school websites. Reviewing these rules before driving is essential, as traffic fines in Spain can be significant.

Overtaking on Spanish roads

You should only overtake from the left, unless indicated otherwise. Always check mirrors, judge distance and speed carefully, and never cut in sharply when overtaking. Low-visibility overtaking requires extra caution.

Turning and right of way on Spanish roads

At intersections, the first vehicle to arrive generally has the right of way. Vehicles approaching from the right have priority when arriving simultaneously. Vehicles already inside roundabouts have priority over those entering.

Speed limits on Spanish roads

Speed enforcement in Spain is strict. General limits include approximately:

90 km/h on single carriage roads

100 km/h on multi-lane roads

120 km/h on highways

Exceeding speed limits can result in fines up to €600 and license points deductions.

Tips for driving in Spain

Using one hand while driving may result in a €100 fine

Driving without proper footwear or shirt can lead to a €200 fine

Environmental zone violations can exceed €6,000

Using objects in your dominant hand at traffic lights can cause fines and license points

Loud music can result in penalties up to €2,400 in residential areas

Improper use of the horn can lead to fines

Improper lane usage can lead to heavy fines

Aggressive gestures toward other motorists may result in penalties

Drinking and driving

Spain allows a maximum alcohol limit of 0.5 mg per 1.0 ml of blood. Repeat offenders or drivers exceeding the legal limit face fines starting from €1,000 along with license point deductions. Drivers begin with 12 points, and when all points are lost, the license is revoked.

Top 3 Destinations to Visit in Spain

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most visited cities, famous for its Mediterranean beaches and Gaudí architecture. Visitors enjoy Mount Tibidabo’s panoramic views and the vibrant coastal atmosphere. Exploring Barcelona by car with your International Driving Permit IDP and international driving license allows easy access to surrounding coastal towns and countryside routes.

Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a cultural and commercial hub. The city features world-class museums, gardens, restaurants, and historic architecture. The Sabatini Gardens and Royal Palace are among the most visited attractions. Driving with your International Driving Permit IDP makes regional travel around Madrid comfortable and flexible.

Tenerife Sea

Tenerife is famous for its volcanic landscapes, scenic coastline, and vibrant festivals such as the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. Mount Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination. With an International Driving Permit IDP from IDPA, you can easily explore the island by car and enjoy its diverse natural beauty.