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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.