Can I drive in Spain using my U.S. (New York State) license?
I know I can get an IDP, but I read in some places that they recognize US Driver's Licenses specifically New York. Can anyone confirm?
Best Answer
According to this USA Today article you can't.
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Can I rent a car in Spain with a US drivers license?
To rent a car in Spain, you will need to be at least 21 years of age and furnish a valid driver's license from your home country, a credit card and an international permit; you should also have a printed copy of the confirmation or voucher in-hand.Can you drive in Europe with US drivers license?
International drivers licenseDriving in Europe with US licenses is acceptable in most countries, but a select few disallow it. Make sure you look into what countries you can and cannot visit with your US driver's licence, and keep in mind, an international licence can come in handy either way.Can you drive in Spain with foreign license?
If you're from outside the EEA you may drive in Spain using your existing foreign driver's license for up to six months after you have registered for residency in Spain. If your foreign license is not in Spanish, however, you must always carry an official translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).Can You Legally Drive in New York with an International Driver's License?
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Answer 2
Afaik, an international license is mostly a multi-lingual translation of your national drivers license. In theory, you might avoid needing one in nations where police commonly speak English, like Scandinavia, Germany, etc., although officers might still demand one, depending upon how national laws are worded, the officer's dislike of foreigners, etc. Spain cannot expect that its police speak English, so yes you'll need the international one. You'll probably still need it even if the officer speaks English because their laws would be written assuming the officer might not speak English.
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