Requirements for renting a car
Everything you need to have ready before picking up your hire car, with no last-minute surprises.
Before picking up your hire car, it's worth knowing exactly what you'll be asked for at the counter, so there are no surprises or hold-ups. Every company has its own conditions, but a set of common requirements crops up in the vast majority of rentals: a minimum age, a minimum time held on the licence, valid documentation, and a card that's accepted for the deposit.
At Gavendo we've been arranging car hire at negotiated rates since 1982, and we know these details can raise questions. That's why we've put together this guide covering the most common requirements, explained clearly, so you know exactly what to bring and what to bear in mind before your trip.
Search carsMinimum age to rent a car
Most companies set a minimum age of 21, though for higher categories (large cars, MPVs or premium models) this can rise to 23 or even 25. They also usually require the driving licence to have been held for a minimum period, typically 1 to 2 years. If you're close to these age thresholds, we recommend checking before booking to avoid surprises when you pick up the car.
Documentation you need to bring
To collect the vehicle you'll need to show valid photo ID: a national ID card if you're from the EU, or a passport if you're coming from elsewhere. It's essential that these details match your booking exactly, so double-check your name is spelled correctly when you book. You'll also need your original driving licence — never a copy or a photo of it.
Your driving licence: requirements and the international permit
Your licence must be valid and, as a general rule, held for a minimum of 1 to 2 years depending on the company. If your licence isn't in Latin script, or you're travelling from outside the European Union, you may also be asked for an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. This document is applied for in your home country before you travel, so look into it in good time if it applies to you.
The card for the deposit
To hold the deposit, the hire company needs a card in the name of the main driver, normally a CREDIT card. The reason is that the fund hold (the well-known pre-authorisation) works more reliably with credit than with debit. Some companies do accept debit cards, but usually only under special conditions, so it's worth confirming this before you travel.
Additional drivers
If you're planning to share the driving with someone else, you must register them as an additional driver when you rent the car: failing to do so can void your insurance cover if something goes wrong. Depending on the company, adding an extra driver may come with a fee. The additional driver must also meet the same age, licence-tenure and documentation requirements as the main driver.
What varies from company to company
Not every hire company applies exactly the same conditions: minimum age, required licence tenure, or whether debit cards are accepted can all differ. At Gavendo we work with negotiated rates across several providers, and we always spell out the specific requirements of your booking before you confirm it, so there are no surprises at the counter.
Tips for a smooth counter experience
Check that all your documents are valid (not expired) before you travel, and that the card you plan to use has enough available funds to cover the deposit, which is held temporarily and not charged if everything goes smoothly. Bring both your physical ID and your physical driving licence: mobile devices or digital copies usually aren't accepted.
- Check expiry dates — Make sure your ID, passport and driving licence remain valid for the entire rental period, not just the pick-up day.
- Bring the right card — Travel with a credit card in your own name as the main driver, with enough available funds to cover the deposit hold.
- Register every driver — If more than one person will be driving, declare it when booking: driving without being registered can leave you without insurance cover.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a car at 18?
Generally not: the usual minimum age at most companies is 21, and some vehicle categories require 23 or 25. Always check the specific requirements of your booking before confirming.
Can I pay the deposit with a debit card?
It depends on the company. The general rule is that a credit card in the main driver's name is required, though some companies accept debit under specific conditions. We'll always confirm this before your rental.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
Only in certain cases, mainly if your licence isn't in Latin script or you're travelling from outside the European Union. If that applies to you, arrange it in your home country before travelling, alongside your national licence.
What happens if an undeclared driver drives the car?
If someone who hasn't been registered as an additional driver drives the vehicle, the insurance may not cover any resulting incident. It's essential to declare every driver when booking, and bear in mind this may come with an extra cost depending on the company.
How long do I need to have held my licence?
Usually between 1 and 2 years, though the exact requirement varies by company and vehicle category. Check this when booking to make sure you meet the condition.
← Back to home · See all guides : Driving in Spain: a practical guide for your trip · Car hire insurance, explained · Young driver: minimum age and surcharges when hiring a car · Hiring a car without a credit card or deposit · One-way car hire: collecting and returning in different cities