Future traveler, let's talk about the international driving permitIf you're reading this and you have a driver's license, it's a sign... because there are more than 60 million kilometers of asphalt (or unpaved) on the planet and you probably want to do some driving. road trip mythical, or you are planning your tour of Europe, by the Route 66, or perhaps by a exotic country. Either you have to travel for work and you're going to take your car or rent one at your destination.

In any case, if you are going to drive, to rent a car… Do you know if your Spanish driver's license is valid there? Do you need any special permission? Let's clear up any doubts about the international driver's license. Grab a cup of coffee (virtual, but coffee nonetheless) and I'll explain.

Think of the international permit as the official translator of your ID card. It's no good if you're driving it alone, but when paired with your Spanish license, it allows you to travel on roads in almost any country in the world.

Can I drive abroad with my Spanish license?

Let's take it one step at a time. Your Spanish driver's license is perfectly valid and recognized. in many countries, but not all.

In the EU and the European Economic Area (Germany, France, Italy, Norway, Iceland…), YES, no problemHere your Spanish license is worth the same as at home.

In countries with bilateral agreements (such as Argentina, Chile, Japan, Morocco, the United Kingdom, and many others), It is also valid, but with Japan, toalthough there is a bilateral agreement, The Japanese authorities are very strict, hence nyou will need to bring ALWAYS have the international permit along with your valid Spanish driving license..

In other countries (for example, in the USA, Australia or China, among others), you need the international permit yes or yesWithout it, you won't be able to drive or rent a car..

Be careful, if you move to another country, your Spanish license will still be valid for a while, but you'll then have to exchange it for a local one.

So when is it mandatory?

• In general, you need it if you travel outside of Europe. (unless it is to a country with an agreement, such as Argentina or Morocco).
• And also if you go to Japan (although there is an agreement there, you have to take it if you want to drive between sakuras).

How long will I be able to use it?

For 1 year, and it can't be renewed. If you need it for a longer period, you'll have to get another one.

What if my Spanish driving license has expired?

Well, we have to do our homework: You renew the Spanish one first and then request the international one.

How do I get an international permit?

Easy: you need your Valid ID or passport, 1 passport photo and payment of the DGT fee 4.5, €10.51.

You have two options, the express and the traditional: 

Online (the fastest and most convenient). You enter the website of the DGT with your digital certificate or Key.. Fill in your details and choose where to pick it up. In 48 hours, you can now go through Traffic without appointment, with your photo and ID.

In person (if you prefer the traditional procedure). You make an appointment at the Traffic Headquarters (by calling 060 or online). You take the completed application, the photo and the proof of payment.

If you can't go pick it up, pcan go another person in your place, and for this you will need aan authorization signed by you (which you can download from the DGT website), ora copy of your ID and the original.

Questions you're probably asking yourself...

Can I drive in the US with my Spanish license?

Well, it depends on the state. Some accept it without further ado, but others They require an international permit. Get informed before you arrive.

Is an international permit valid for living in another country?

No, it's only for travel. If you move, sooner or later you'll have to get out. the local card.

What does the international permit look like?

It's a gray brochure with your photo and your data in 8 languages (Spanish, English, French, Arabic, Italian, German, Portuguese and Russian).

What do I do if the country does not recognize the international permit?

Get in touch with your embassy or consulate and they will inform you of local legislation and requirements. In some cases they may ask certified translations or even a driving test there.

For hassle-free travel and a smooth ride…

✔️ALWAYS carry your Spanish driving license with the international permit if required.
✔️Before traveling, check the country's traffic regulations. (because sometimes they change).
✔️If you rent a car, ask what documents are needed to avoid any last-minute surprises.

And now that you know everything you need about it international driving permit, choose your destination and enjoy the trip. We're big fans of backpacking and hitting the road at the Burgalesa Driving School...

¡Have a good trip! / Have a good trip! / Bon voyage! / Gute Reise!

/Good trip! / Good trip! / God Almighty / Счастливого пути!