Planning a road trip through Spain? Whether you're dreaming of cruising along the Mediterranean coast, exploring Andalusian villages, or navigating the streets of Barcelona, driving can be one of the best ways to experience Spain's diverse landscapes and hidden gems. However, there are important differences between driving in Spain and the United States that every American driver should understand before getting behind the wheel.

I've compiled this guide based on my driving experience throughout Spain to help you navigate everything you’ll come across while driving in Spain.

Should You Drive in Spain?

Before committing to renting a car, consider whether driving is the best option for your specific itinerary. Spain has excellent high-speed rail (the AVE network) between major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia that I can personally vouch for. Also, for city-focused trips, public transportation is often more convenient and stress-free than dealing with urban traffic and parking.

However, driving becomes incredibly valuable when if you want to explore rural regions like the Basque Country, Galicia, or Andalusian pueblos blancos. For mixed itineraries, consider renting a car only for portions of your trip where it adds the most value, which is what I typically do.

Licensing Requirements: Do you Need an International Driving Permit

To drive legally in Spain, Americans must carry either of the following (DGT):

1.       An international Driving Permit and a valid US license
2.      A sworn (official) translation of the license in Spanish, as well as a valid US license

An International Driving Permit is usually the easiest and cheapest way to obtain an official translation for most people because the translation must be a sworn translation, done by a recognized sworn translator in Spain, a Spanish consulate, or another officially authorized translator.

If you're staying longer than six months or becoming a resident, you'll need to exchange your U.S. license for a Spanish one, and the rules vary by state due to reciprocity agreements.

How to Get an IDP

The process is straightforward for Americans:

Option 1: AAA (American Automobile Association)

• Can be done in person at AAA offices or by mail

• Cost: $20, plus $10-30 for two passport photos, plus shipping if not done in person

• Processing time: Immediate in person, at least one week if applying online

• Valid for one year from issue date

• Online applications done through the AAA website are processed through govWorks, a third party which has awful reviews. Customers have repeatedly come to us after bad experience including not ever receiving an IDP after ordering from them.

Option 2: AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)

• Similar process and cost to AAA, though no in-person options

• Better reputation for customer service and reliability than AAA/govWorks

Option 3: Fast IDP (that's us - faster option for AAA-issued IDPs)

• As of when this blog was published, Fast IDP is the only International Driving Permit expediter working in the United States that gets official AAA-issued or AATA-issued IDPs.

• Delivery timeline: As fast next-day delivery for rush service within the US. 2-5 business days abroad.

• Useful if you're leaving soon and can't wait for AAA or AATA.

Critical Note: Don't Get Scammed

Be wary of scam websites offering "instant digital IDPs." Legitimate IDPs are physical documents with a booklet format containing translations in multiple languages.

For more details on the various IDP options, see the blog post we wrote about How to Get an IDP in the US. 

Understanding Spanish Driving Basics

Which Side of the Road?

Spain drives on the right-hand side of the road, just like the United States. This makes the transition much easier for American drivers compared to left-hand driving countries.

Speed Limits and Enforcement

Spanish speed limits are generally similar to the US, with some residential areas having an even lower speed limit than residential streets have in the US. Be aware that speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h), not miles per hour. Here are the standard limits:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph), with some residential streets limited to 30 km/h or even 20 km/h

• Rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)

• Conventional highways (carreteras): 90-100 km/h (56-62 mph)

• Autovías and Autopistas (divided highways): 120 km/h (75 mph)

Speed enforcement is very serious in Spain. Fixed speed cameras are common and are usually marked with warning signs, but there are also mobile radar units and unmarked police vehicles. Fines for speeding can be substantial, starting around €100 and increasing significantly for higher speeds. Some rental companies will charge administrative fees if you receive tickets.

Traffic Lights and Right Turns

Unlike most U.S. states, you cannot turn right on a red light in Spain unless there's a specific green arrow permitting it. Treat red lights as absolute stops for all movements.

Navigating Spanish Roads: A Hierarchy

Understanding Spain's road classification system will help you plan routes effectively:

Autopistas (AP-#): These are toll highways, typically the fastest routes between major cities. They're well-maintained with rest areas, but tolls can add up quickly on long journeys.

Autovías (A-#): Free divided highways that are nearly identical in quality to autopistas. Spain has invested heavily in these, making them excellent alternatives to toll roads.

Carreteras Nacionales (N-#): National roads that were the main routes before highways were built. They often pass through town centers, which slows travel but can be more scenic and interesting.

Carreteras Comarcales and Local Roads: Regional and local roads with various designations (C-, CV-, etc. depending on the region). These range from well-maintained to narrow mountain roads.

The Spanish Toll Road System

Spain's toll roads (peajes) operate differently than most American toll systems.

When you enter a toll section, you'll take a ticket from an automated machine. Keep track of where you put this ticket because you'll need it when you exit to calculate your toll. At the exit, you can pay by:

• Cash (euros)

• Credit/debit card (most are accepted, but have a chip card ready)

• Electronic toll device (Vía-T or Telepeaje), though this requires a Spanish account for most systems

If you lose your entry ticket, you'll be charged the maximum possible toll for that highway section, which can be expensive.

Toll costs vary but expect to pay roughly €0.08-0.15 per kilometer. A long journey like Barcelona to Valencia on the AP-7 can cost €25-35 in tolls alone. You can avoid tolls entirely by using parallel autovías, though journey times may increase by 15-30%.

Parking in Spain: Rules and Realities

Parking can be the most challenging aspect of driving in Spain, especially in historic city centers. Understanding the color-coded curb system is essential:

Blue zones (Zona Azul or ORA): Metered parking for limited time periods, usually 1-2 hours maximum. You must display a ticket from a nearby parking meter on your dashboard. Hours are typically enforced Monday-Friday from 9am-2pm and 4pm-8pm, with limited Saturday enforcement in some cities. Always check the posted signs.

Green zones: Resident parking that may allow short-term visitor parking with payment, but check carefully.

Yellow curbs: No parking. These areas are typically reserved for loading zones, bus stops, or emergencies.

White/unmarked curbs: Generally free parking, but verify with posted signs as rules vary.

Red curbs: No parking allowed.

For overnight stays in cities, use underground parking garages. They're common in city centers and cost roughly €20-30 per day, but they save enormous stress and potential towing fees. Most hotels can recommend nearby options.

Critical warning: Spain enforces parking violations strictly. Your rental car will be towed if parked illegally in many cities, and retrieval fees can exceed €150 plus daily storage charges, not to mention the hassle.

Roundabouts: The Spanish Traffic Circle

Roundabouts (rotondas or glorietas) are everywhere in Spain, and the rules are strictly enforced:

1. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Vehicles inside have right-of-way.

2. Signal your intentions. Use your right turn signal when exiting.

3. Multi-lane roundabouts: The inside lane is for going straight through, making left turns, or U-turns. The outside lane is for the first or second exits. This is different from some U.S. states.

4. Don't stop in the roundabout unless traffic conditions require it.

Take your time learning the flow. Spanish drivers are generally patient with tourists navigating roundabouts, though they may honk if you hesitate too long before entering.

Fuel Stations and Fuel Types

Gas stations (gasolineras) are widely available throughout Spain, though they can be sparse in mountainous rural areas. Most stations are self-service, and you can pay inside or usually also at the pump with a credit card (chip cards work best).

Know your fuel type before filling up:

• Gasolina 95 (or 98): Unleaded gasoline (the numbers indicate octane rating, whith the higher number being more premium fuel)

• Gasóleo or Diésel: Diesel fuel

• Sin Plomo: Unleaded (you may see this instead of "gasolina")

Most rental cars in Spain are diesel, which is more fuel-efficient and slightly cheaper than gasoline. However, always verify your rental car's fuel type before your first fill-up. Putting the wrong fuel in can cause serious engine damage and void your rental insurance.

Fuel prices are listed per liter, not per gallon. Expect to pay roughly €1.50-1.80 per liter (about $6-7 per gallon equivalent at current exchange rates).

Insurance

Spanish law requires all vehicles to have liability insurance (seguro obligatorio). Your rental car will include this, but understanding additional coverage options is crucial:

CDW/LDW (Collision/Loss Damage Waiver): Reduces your liability for damage to the rental car. European rental car excess/deductibles can be €1,000-2,000 or more, so this coverage is often worthwhile.

Theft protection: Separate from collision coverage in many cases.

Super CDW: Reduces or eliminates the deductible on collision coverage.

Important: U.S. credit card rental car coverage often doesn't apply or is limited in Spain, particularly for rentals longer than 15-31 days. Check your specific card's benefits guide carefully. Many American travelers find it more cost-effective to purchase standalone rental car insurance rather than paying the rental company's daily rates.

Traffic Rules and Customs

Mobile Phone Use

Handheld mobile phone use while driving is strictly prohibited and carries fines of €200 or more. This includes holding your phone for GPS navigation. Use a proper mount or hands-free system.

Seat Belts and Child Seats

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and rear. Children under 135cm (about 4'5") must use appropriate child restraint systems and cannot sit in the front seat. Rental companies provide child seats for a daily fee, but verify availability when booking.

Alcohol Limits

Spain's legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, lower than most U.S. states. For new drivers (licensed less than two years) and professional drivers, it's even stricter at 0.03%. Police conduct random breath tests, especially on weekend nights and holidays. The penalties are severe, including fines, license suspension, and even potential criminal charges for higher levels.

Horn Use

Unlike some other countries, horn use in Spain is minimal and generally reserved for genuine warnings. Excessive honking, especially in residential areas, can result in fines.

Driving in Spanish Cities

Madrid: The city center has strict low-emission zone restrictions (Madrid Central). Most rental cars are allowed, but verify your vehicle's classification. Parking is extremely difficult and expensive. Use the Metro for city sightseeing and the car for day trips.

Barcelona: Similar emissions restrictions (Zona de Baixes Emissions) apply. The Gothic Quarter and many central areas are pedestrian-only. Park outside the center and use public transport, or use your car only for excursions outside the city.

Seville, Granada, Valencia: Historic centers have narrow medieval streets where cars struggle or are prohibited. Parking outside the old quarters and walking has been much more enjoyable for me than trying to navigate in these areas.

Smaller cities and towns: Often more car-friendly, but historic centers may still be pedestrianized or have extremely narrow streets. Look for signs indicating "Centro" or "Casco Antiguo" and find parking on the periphery.

Navigation Tools

Google Maps works excellently throughout Spain and includes real-time traffic data. It's generally the most reliable option. However:

• Download offline maps for rural areas where cell coverage may be spotty

• Waze is also popular and can provide alerts about police checkpoints and speed cameras

• Be aware that GPS may route you through narrow village streets that are technically accessible but challenging; use common sense

Important Signs and Terms

Learn these key Spanish road signs and terms:

• Ceda el paso: Yield

• Stop: Stop (same as English)

• Dirección prohibida: No entry/Wrong way

• Salida: Exit

• Obras: Construction/roadworks

• Peligro: Danger

• Curva peligrosa: Dangerous curve

• Desprendimientos: Falling rocks

• Niebla: Fog (common warning in certain regions)

Regional Variations and Special Considerations

Basque Country and Catalonia: Road signs may be in Basque (Euskera) or Catalan rather than Spanish. Place names can differ significantly from Spanish (Barcelona vs. Barca, San Sebastián vs. Donostia). GPS systems usually recognize both versions.

Mountain driving: The Pyrenees, Picos de Europa, and Sierra Nevada have spectacular but challenging mountain roads. Expect switchbacks, narrow passages, and potentially snow/ice in winter. Snow chains may be required or recommended in winter months; rental companies can provide these for a fee.

Rural areas: Watch for livestock, agricultural vehicles, and cyclists. Rural Spanish drivers are generally courteous but may drive slowly on narrow roads with limited passing opportunities.

Best Practices and Cultural Notes

Spanish driving culture is generally more relaxed than in many European countries, but certain rules are taken very seriously. Speed limits, parking restrictions, and DUI laws are strictly enforced with substantial fines.

Siesta timing: In smaller towns, some services including parking meters may have reduced enforcement during traditional siesta hours (roughly 2-5pm), but don't count on this.

Pedestrian crossings: Spanish law gives pedestrians absolute right-of-way at marked crossings (pasos de peatones). You must stop if anyone is waiting to cross.

Flashing headlights: Usually means the other driver is warning you of something (police ahead, hazard, or that you have right-of-way), not that they're being aggressive.

What to Do If You're Stopped by Police

If police signal you to pull over (usually by pulling alongside and gesturing):

1. Pull over safely as soon as possible

2. Stay calm and polite

3. Have your license, passport/ID, rental agreement, and insurance documents ready

4. Police may not speak English fluently, so be patient if you don’t speak Spanish

5. If issued a fine, you may legitimately be able to pay on the spot for a reduced amount, or you'll receive information for later payment

Accident Procedures

In case of an accident:

1. Move to a safe location if possible

2. Use warning triangles (required equipment in the rental car)

3. Call 112 (European emergency number) if there are injuries

4. Exchange insurance information with other parties

5. Take photos of damage and the scene

6. File a police report (denuncia) for insurance purposes, especially for significant damage

7. Contact your rental company immediately

Final Recommendations

Book automatic transmission vehicles well in advance. While manual transmissions are common in Europe, automatics are readily available from major rental companies in Spain, but they cost more and have limited availability.

Consider picking up and dropping off at different locations to maximize your route efficiency. One-way rental fees within Spain are often reasonable.

Allow extra travel time. While Spanish highways are excellent, scenic routes are everywhere, and spontaneous village visits are part of the joy of road tripping in Spain.

Download a parking app like "Parkimeter" or "ElParking" that can help you find parking and pay for blue zones via smartphone in many Spanish cities.

Fill up before returning the rental. Rental companies charge premium rates for fuel if you return the car empty. Note that "full-to-full" is the standard policy.

Conclusion

Driving in Spain offers travelers tremendous freedom to explore beyond the typical tourist routes, and I personally really enjoy that about driving in Spain. The country's well-maintained roads, logical signage, and right-side driving make it one of Europe's more accessible countries for U.S. drivers. While city parking can be frustrating and speed cameras are vigilant, most Americans should find Spanish driving manageable.

¡Buen viaje y conduce con cuidado! (Safe travels and drive carefully!)