What is an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a licence itself—it is a translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages. It is recognized in over 150 countries under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and serves as official proof that you hold a valid driving licence in your home country.
In Spain, the IDP must be carried alongside your original national licence. The IDP alone is not valid—you need both documents when driving.
Who Needs an IDP in Spain?
EU/EEA Drivers
No IDP required. Your national EU/EEA licence is sufficient to drive in Spain. This includes UK drivers post-Brexit (photocard licence only).
Non-EU Drivers
IDP required. Drivers from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most other non-EU countries must carry an IDP alongside their national licence.
Where to Get an IDP
You must obtain your IDP from your home country before traveling. IDPs are issued by official automobile associations:
- United States: AAA (American Automobile Association) or AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)
- Canada: CAA (Canadian Automobile Association)
- Australia: AAA (Australian Automobile Association)
- New Zealand: AA (Automobile Association of New Zealand)
- Other countries: Check with your national automobile association
Warning: Fake IDPs Online
Many websites sell fake "international driving permits" that are not valid under international law. Only IDPs issued by your country's official automobile association are legally recognized in Spain. Do not trust websites offering instant online IDPs.
Cost and Validity
An IDP typically costs between $15-25 USD (or equivalent in your local currency) and is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your national licence expires before the year is up, your IDP becomes invalid at the same time.
Processing is usually immediate if you apply in person at an authorized location. By mail, it may take 1-2 weeks.
What Documents Do You Need?
To apply for an IDP, you typically need:
- A valid national driver's licence
- Two passport-sized photos
- A completed application form
- The application fee
Requirements may vary slightly by country, so check with your issuing authority before applying.
What Happens If You Don't Have an IDP?
Driving in Spain without an IDP (when required) can result in:
- Fines: Spanish police can fine you on the spot if you cannot produce an IDP
- Insurance issues: Your rental car insurance may be invalidated if you are driving without the required documentation
- Rental refusal: Many reputable rental companies now require an IDP for non-EU drivers and may refuse to hand over the keys without it
Using Your IDP in Marbella and Costa del Sol
When picking up your rental car in Marbella, you will need to present:
- Your original national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (if required)
- Your passport or national ID
- Your rental voucher
- A credit card for the deposit
The rental agent will check that your IDP is valid and matches your national licence. Make sure both documents are in the same name.
Special Cases
UK Drivers After Brexit
UK drivers do not need an IDP to drive in Spain. A valid UK photocard driving licence is sufficient. However, if you still have an old paper licence, you should either exchange it for a photocard or carry an IDP as a precaution.
Long-Term Stays
If you become a resident in Spain, you must exchange your licence for a Spanish one. The IDP is only valid for tourists and short-term visitors. Check with the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) for residency rules.
