Why do I need an international permit to pick up a rental car in Spain?

I hired a car through InterRent in Spain for a pick up in Jerez, but the company refused to give it to me when I handed in my old paper driver's license.

It said I needed an International Driving Permit (IDP) to go with it.

In the fine print of my voucher there was a clause that said an "international driving license is compulsory for non-EU driving license holders and must be presented with an original driving licence".

I believe this will only be enforced for paper permits, but this may be due to the individual rental office.

In the end , things worked out as i had booked through a broker and after a few back and forths he refunded me as the confirmation email clearly stated the required documents were a pass eport and a driver's license.

I've researched other car rental companies and got different answers on what type of t license they would need.

I will update my paper license as soon as possible and in the meantime get an international driving license for when I travel abroad .

JM,by email

An international driving permit is a driver's license official, multilingual translation of your driving license and, according to the government website, you don't need it to drive in Spain, provided the trip is less than six months.

After experiencing this problem you contacted a number of other rental companies to ask about their requirements and some warned that they would not accept your paper license and wanted either a c arte photo or an IDP.

In its terms and conditions, InterRent states that a license without a photo "would not be considered a valid license...therefore, it will apply for the international license".

In 2015, the newspaper counterpart of the photocard d Driver's license was abolished, but paper licenses issued before March 31, 2000 are still valid.

The AA informs you that you may need an IDP in some EU countries if you still have a paper driving license (or your driving license was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man). If you are renting a car abroad, check with the company before you leave to avoid a stressful situation at the airport. If you're not sure, get an IDP just in case. They cost £5.50 and are available from a post office.

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