Spain Car Hire Destination Guide

Car hire is widely available throughout the Spain from all the major car rental companies. Despite being a very popular holiday location for western Europeans, Spain is one of Europe’s least densely populated countries (about 1/3 that of the UK) in Europe.

In fact Spain has become such a popular destination that many Europeans have chosen to live there on a permanent basis. Figures vary but Spain is reported to have in excess of 4.5 million (about 10% of the population) foreign residents.

A country of much natural beauty and diverse climate, it’s little wonder that Spain has become so popular as a holiday destination for other Europeans. The consequence of this is that Spain is very well served by all the Car Rental agencies, with good representation across the whole country.

Driving in Spain
If you’re planning to rent a car while in Spain there’s some basic information you’re going to need to get you on your way. Firstly, and quite importantly if you’re British, get ready to drive on the right hand side of the road. That’s the wrong side if you’re British! This means you should always overtake on the left.

There are many laws unique to driving in Spain that you need to know about, such as people who wear glasses must always carry a spare pair with them. Another is that motorists must carry a set of replacement bulbs (your car rental provider will do this one of course)

Stationary trams may not be overtaken when passengers are getting on or off. Also, on uneven dates in one-way streets in towns, vehicles should be parked on the side of the road where the houses bear uneven numbers. On the side where houses bear an even number, parking is allowed on these dates.

It is compulsory for front and rear seat occupants to wear seat belts if fitted. It’s also strongly recommended to carry a warning triangle at all times.

Speed Limits
The common speed limits are 50km/h (31mph) in built up areas and 90 to 100km/h (56 to 62mph) everywhere else, except motorways where it’s 120km/h (74mph).

Drink Driving
As with most countries nowadays drink driving is heavily frowned upon in Spain and the limit is quite low (currently 80mg) at the same level it is in the UK so it’s not worth taking any risks.

Credit Cards
Credit cards are still not accepted everywhere in Spain (although that is changing fast) so don’t be surprised if you turn up at a petrol station and have to pay in cash for your fuel.

Related Links
• Rental Locations : A guide to destinations throughout the world
• Spain.info : Official tourism web site for Spain