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-   -   Hertz Spain - International Drivers License Required? (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/hertz-spain-international-drivers-license-required-774406/)

AlwaysOnTheRoad Mar 22nd, 2009 04:56 AM

Hertz Spain - International Drivers License Required?
 
The Hertz website says that an International Drivers License is required. Has anyone been asked to show one? I never have.

NEDSIRELAND Mar 22nd, 2009 05:27 AM

The only time I have had to show my IDP was when I was being cited for a traffic offense. It's not a License to drive; its use is to translates your Operator's License into the language of where you happen to be. In Spain, that would be Castellano.

The incident to which I refer was in Morocco. I was fined 'on the spot,' paid the fine to the Gendarme, and he stamped my IDP.

Aduchamp1 Mar 22nd, 2009 06:31 AM

You do not need it unless you stopped. If you get an angry cop it could make a small matter somewhat worse.

alanRow Mar 22nd, 2009 06:39 AM

It's a LEGAL requirement for you to have one in Spain. Up to you whether you want to take the risk of facing Spanish justice

ira Mar 22nd, 2009 08:09 AM

Hi AOT,

If it is required in Spain, the rental agency might be required to see it before renting you the car.

You can get one via http://www.aaasouth.com/home.asp

((I))

Robert2533 Mar 22nd, 2009 08:45 AM

Some agents (Hertz and AVIS) are starting to ask if you are carrying the IDP, but as already noted, it is required by Spanish law.

iris1745 Mar 22nd, 2009 09:17 AM

HI; We always get an IDL, even if the country doesn't require one. I think the IDL we just got for Portugal and Spain cost $22. at your local AAA office. Ira gave you a web site to get it online. But they do require a standard size picture. Perhaps you can find the application on line, fill it out and bring it to AAA. AAA has to place their 'imprint' over your signiture. I would be happy to stand corrected if i'm wrong. iris1745/dick

nytraveler Mar 22nd, 2009 10:10 AM

Getting one is so quick and expensive, why would you risk not having what they tell you to have?

hausfrau Mar 22nd, 2009 10:32 AM

This question comes up here all the time. Why risk it - just get one!

ekscrunchy Mar 22nd, 2009 11:39 AM

The most annoying thing is that they are only good for a year!!

ribeirasacra Mar 22nd, 2009 01:46 PM

I will add my voice and say it is required by law here in Spain...For a few dollars it is worth the piece of mind.

Maribel Apr 3rd, 2009 03:50 PM

The car rental company will not insist that you have one or require you to produce one, but they might ask if you have one, as they did recently when we picked up our Avis rental in Pamplona.
This was the very first time a car rental agent had ever asked us about the IDP, actually, and we do at least 5 rentals in Spain every year.

Ditto to what ribeirasacra and others have told you. I agree with them that for the few dollars, it will be well worth the piece of mind to you in case you are stopped by the Guardia Civil.


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