Can I rent a car in Portugal without an international driver's license?


Can I rent a car in Portugal without an international driver's license? Americans are not required by law to obtain an international driving permit to drive a rental car in Portugal.


What documents do I need to drive in Portugal?

International Driving Permit (if you have one) Passport. Car documents (like the registration, proof of ownership, and vehicle inspection report) Proof of insurance (in Portugal this is represented by a sticker on the lower right corner of the windshield as well as a certificate of insurance)


Do I need any documents to drive in Portugal?

If you are an EU or American national, you can drive in Portugal with your driving license. If you are staying longer than six months, an International Driving License is required. If you do not have an EU or American license, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.


Can tourists drive in Portugal?

U.S. Citizens are entitled to drive in Portugal with their U.S. issued driver's license for a period no to exceed 185 days, provided they are not legal residents.


Can anyone rent a car in Portugal?

The legal driving age in Portugal is 18 years old. In order to be able to rent a car, however, most rental car companies in Portugal require you to be at least 21 years of age. On top of that, some companies might also require that you have had your driving license for at least one year.


What happens if I drive in Spain without IDP?

Many car rental companies do not require an IDP, only your US driver's license along with your passport. However, if you get pulled over by Spanish police, they will ask for an International Driver's License and you will probably incur a fine if you don't have one.


Can I rent a car in Europe without an IDP?

Yes, you will need both your passport and your driver's license to rent a car in Europe. Additionally, for Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, or Spain, you will also need to provide an International Driver's Permit (IDP).


Can I rent a car in Spain without an IDP?

Many car rental companies do not require an IDP, only your US driver's license along with your passport. However, if you get pulled over by Spanish police, they will ask for an International Driver's License and you will probably incur a fine if you don't have one.