By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped with all the essential details to confidently navigate Spain's roads and enjoy your journey to the fullest.
Yes, German travelers can legally drive in Spain with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, UnionPay, DinersClub, AMEX, and JCB.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur an additional fee, such as EUR 8 per day (capped at EUR 85) or EUR 11.95 per day.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Discover a variety of car rental companies in Spain, ranging from well-established international brands to reliable local providers, ensuring a suitable option for every traveler's needs.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
GOLDCAR
Locations:
221Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking convenience
Hertz
Locations:
543Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
528Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
Locations:
764Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
SIXT
Locations:
479Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking a variety of vehicle options
Centauro
Locations:
112Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Locations:
998Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate clients
Record Go
Locations:
162Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
OK Mobility
Locations:
174Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
CLICK RENT
Locations:
251Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelersChoosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Spain
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most German drivers prefer manual for familiarity
Consider your comfort level with driving in a foreign country
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your German insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Barcelona, Madrid, ValenciaMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Andalusia, Pyrenees, Costa BravaConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Mallorca, Ibiza, Canary Islands
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Spain is a captivating destination for travelers from Germany, offering vibrant cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Rent a car to explore scenic routes like the Costa del Sol and the Pyrenees, ensuring a memorable journey.
When renting a car in Spain, it is mandatory to have basic insurance coverage. Additional insurance options are available to provide extra protection and peace of mind during your travels. It's important to understand the coverage provided in your rental contract and consider supplementary options to minimize potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Covers damages to the rental vehicle in case of an accident, reducing your financial liability.
Provides coverage against theft of the rental vehicle, reducing your financial liability.
Covers damages or injuries caused to third parties or their property.
Offers medical coverage for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
Provides assistance services such as towing, fuel delivery, or lockout assistance in case of vehicle breakdown.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Spain. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Maximize your savings and enjoy your trip to Spain by following these practical car rental tips for travelers from Germany.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Spain.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
German and Spanish traffic rules differ in speed limits, signage details, alcohol tolerance, and overtaking practices, while sharing commonalities in seatbelt laws and mobile phone use.
Speed Limits
Urban: 50 km/h, Highway: 120 km/h
Urban: 50 km/h, Autobahn: No fixed limit on some segments
Road Signage
Signs use Spanish with regional language variations
Signs use German with standardized symbols
Blood Alcohol Limit
0.05% BAC
0.03% BAC for novice and professional drivers
Overtaking Rules
Overtake on the left only
Overtake on the left, strict rules for Autobahn
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices required
Hands-free devices required
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Parking Rules
Specific zones and color-coded markings
Regulated areas with clear signage
