Car Rental in Spain for Thai Travelers

Embarking on a journey from Thailand to explore Spain's rich culture and scenic roads is thrilling!
However, questions may arise like:

Can I drive in Spain with my Thai driving license?
What are the insurance policies available for car rentals?
What are the costs involved in renting a vehicle?
Are multi-city car rentals feasible?
What are the key road regulations to be aware of in Spain?

This guide addresses these queries by providing actionable insights tailored for Thai travelers, ensuring a smooth car rental experience. A quick reference summary is included at the end for your convenience.

Can Thai Citizens Drive in Spain?

Yes, Thai travelers can legally drive in Spain with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, and UnionPay.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-24 will incur a fee of EUR 9 per day, capped at EUR 135, with a minimum charge of EUR 27.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

Check Rates

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Thai travelers visiting Spain.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

GOLDCAR
global
8.5
Locations:
221
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- 24/7 customer service
- Multiple pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking convenience
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
541
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
528
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- Wide range of vehicles
- No hidden fees
- 24/7 customer support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
760
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in Europe
- 24/7 customer support
- Loyalty program benefits
- Online booking discounts
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
481
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental periods
- Convenient locations
Best for
Travelers seeking a variety of vehicle options
Centauro
global
8.5
Locations:
112
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable pricing
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Excellent customer service
- Online booking discounts
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
global
8.5
Locations:
1003
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- One of the largest car rental companies in the world
- Comprehensive insurance options
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental periods
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate clients

Record Go
local
8.5
Locations:
161
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Tailored rental options
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
OK Mobility
local
8.5
Locations:
166
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pickup locations
- Variety of vehicle types
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
CLICK RENT
local
8.5
Locations:
248
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental terms
- Easy online booking
- No hidden fees
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers

Recommendations for Thai Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Spain
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Spain
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with manual cars, as they are more prevalent in Spain
- If unfamiliar with manual gear, automatic is recommended for ease
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Thai insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Barcelona, Madrid, Seville
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Malaga, Valencia, Alicante

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

Check Rates

Top Destinations for Travelers in Spain

Spain boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities perfect for exploration. Renting a car allows you to traverse scenic coastlines, historic landmarks, and charming villages at your own pace.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Spain, travelers from Thailand should ensure they have adequate insurance for legal and personal protection. Basic insurance is often included, but additional coverage is advisable for greater security.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
฿540-900/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
฿180-290/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to others and their property caused by you.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
฿180-360/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Spain. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$5,890.62

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$5,890.62

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Spain

Travelers from Thailand can save significantly on car rentals in Spain by planning ahead and using strategic approaches to booking.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental 3-6 weeks before your trip to get the best rates and ensure availability.
Save up to 25%
Use Comparison Tools
Platforms like Kayak or Rentalcars.com help you compare prices across multiple rental agencies.
Save up to ฿1,800
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose a full-to-full fuel option and refuel at local gas stations to avoid high refueling fees.
Save ฿600-฿1,200
Check for Discounts
Look for promotional offers or loyalty programs from rental companies.
Save up to ฿1,500
Consider Smaller Locations
Renting from smaller towns or off-airport locations often comes with lower rates.
Save up to ฿2,000

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Spain.

Hidden Fees
Beware of additional charges that may not be included in the quoted price.
- Charges for additional drivers (around €5-€10/day per driver).
- Fees for young drivers under 25.
- Airport surcharges for vehicle collection.
- Costly extras like GPS or child seats.
- Toll transponder rental fees.
Insurance Coverage
Understand the insurance options and assess if additional coverage is necessary.
- Standard rentals include basic insurance but often exclude excess damage fees.
- Supplementary insurance can be purchased for greater coverage.
- Credit card travel insurance may cover car rentals—check your card's policy.
- Read and understand the terms of the included coverage.
Fuel Policies
Familiarize yourself with the fuel return policy of the rented vehicle.
- 'Full-to-full' is the most economical and fair option.
- Avoid prepaid fuel plans unless necessary.
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car.
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling.
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before driving away.
- Document any visible scratches, dents, or damage on the car.
- Test all lights, windscreen wipers, and electronics.
- Verify the fuel level matches the contract.
- Take photos or videos of the car's condition.
Rental Agreement
Read the terms and conditions of the rental contract carefully.
- Check for mileage or geographical restrictions.
- Understand the company's late return policy and associated fees.
- Know the cancellation or modification terms.
- Ensure the contract matches the discussed agreement.
Pickup & Return Timings
Timing can impact cost and convenience.
- Plan to pick up the car during the rental office's operating hours.
- Account for possible delays at airport locations.
- Returning late may incur additional daily charges.
- Returning early may not result in a refund.

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rule Differences Between Thailand and Spain

Thailand and Spain have distinct traffic regulations, particularly in driving sides, speed limits, and alcohol tolerance.

Driving Side
ES
Drive on the right-hand side of the road
TH
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
Speed Limits
ES
Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 90-100 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h
TH
Urban: 60 km/h, Rural: 90-120 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h
Blood Alcohol Limit
ES
0.05% BAC (stricter for new drivers)
TH
0.05% BAC (standard for all drivers)
Seatbelt Usage
ES
Mandatory for all occupants
TH
Mandatory for front-seat passengers
Mobile Phone Use
ES
Strictly hands-free only
TH
Strictly hands-free only
Traffic Signs
ES
European standardized signage
TH
International signage with some regional variations
Parking Regulations
ES
Strictly regulated with color-coded zones
TH
Varies by area with clear signage
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with Spain's road signs and their meanings.
- • Carry your international driving permit and rental agreement at all times.
- • Be aware of speed cameras, which are common in Spain.
- • Avoid using mobile phones without a hands-free device while driving.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Thailand renting a car in Spain

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Spain?

It’s recommended to book at least 1–2 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (June–September, Easter, Christmas) to get the car category you want at a better price. Booking close to the travel date is usually more expensive and offers fewer options.

Which platform should I use to book a rental car?

QEEQ is recommended as an international car rental price comparison platform. It supports multiple languages, has transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and offers easy-to-understand insurance packages, making it suitable for Thai travelers.

Are rental cars in Spain mostly manual or automatic? Which should I choose?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper. Automatic cars are harder to find and more expensive. If you normally drive an automatic, you should choose an automatic and book early via QEEQ for convenience.

What car size should I choose for driving in Spain?

2 people: a small car (Fiat 500, Seat Ibiza), easier to drive in old towns. 3–4 people: a compact or small SUV. 4+ people / lots of luggage: a station wagon or 7-seater MPV. Old town streets in Spain are very narrow, so choosing a car that’s too big can make driving and parking difficult.

What is a one-way rental? Is it expensive?

It means picking up the car in one city and returning it in another. There is an additional one way fee (from several tens to several hundreds of euros) depending on distance and company. It will be shown during the booking process.

Can I drive a rental car from Spain to Portugal or France?

Most companies allow this, but you must inform the rental company in advance. There may be a cross-border fee and additional insurance required. Taking the car to Morocco is not allowed.

Can I rent a car in Spain if I’m under 25?

Yes, but you must be at least 21 years old (some companies require 23) and have held your driving licence for 1–2 years. A young driver fee (10–25 euros per day) will apply.

What type of credit card do I need to book and pick up a rental car?

You need an international credit card (Visa/Mastercard) in the name of the main driver, with embossed numbers. Debit cards, prepaid cards, or cards in another person’s name are not accepted. Your credit limit should be sufficient (800–1500 euros for the deposit).

Can I drive in Spain with a Thai driving licence?

No. You must have both your original Thai driving licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) together.

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)? Is it different from a simple translation?

An IDP is an official translation of your Thai driving licence into English under international conventions. It is not a new driving licence. It must be used together with your original Thai licence and has stronger legal standing than a regular translation.

How can Thai nationals obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Go to the Department of Land Transport in Thailand with your passport, national ID card, Thai driving licence, and photos. Apply for the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (recognized by Spain). Processing time is short.

How long is an IDP valid?

The 1949 IDP issued in Thailand is valid for 1 year. Make sure it covers the full period of your stay in Spain.

What documents are required at the rental counter to pick up the car?

You need: 1) the driver’s passport, 2) original Thai driving licence, 3) International Driving Permit (IDP), and 4) the main driver’s credit card.

Do rental companies require a minimum driving experience?

Most require at least 1 year of driving experience. Some car categories or companies may require 2 years.

Can I add an additional driver? What are the requirements?

Yes. Go to the counter with the main driver and the additional driver. The additional driver must bring passport, Thai driving licence, and IDP. The documentation requirements are the same as for the main driver. There is a daily additional driver fee.

What is the procedure for picking up a rental car at Spanish airports?

Follow the signs for Car Rental/Alquiler de Coches to the counter, prepare all required documents, collect the keys and rental agreement, then follow the staff’s instructions to the pick-up area.

Queues at the rental counter are very long during peak season. How can I reduce waiting time?

Choose a rental company that offers membership/express service or online check-in, or schedule your arrival outside peak hours to reduce waiting time.

If the counter staff try to sell extra insurance, what should I do?

If you have already purchased insurance via QEEQ, politely decline and tell them: “I already have full insurance from the platform I booked with.”

What should I check when inspecting the car before leaving the pick-up area?

Check for damage all around the car and take photos/videos of all areas. Check the interior condition and equipment, and inform staff if you find any damage not listed on the inspection form.

Which fuel policy is best?

The best option is ‘Full to Full’. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it with a full tank. If you return it not full, you’ll be charged for fuel at a higher rate plus a refuelling fee.

What is the rental car deposit? Will I get it back?

The deposit amount (800–1500 euros) is blocked on your credit card. If there are no issues—no damage and the fuel is full—the hold is released within 1–4 weeks.

If I travel with children, are child seats available for rent?

Children under 135 cm must use a child seat. You can add one during booking or via QEEQ for an extra fee, or you can bring your own booster seat from Thailand.

Is the GPS in rental cars reliable? Should I rent one?

Rental GPS units are expensive and the maps may not be up to date. Using your phone with Google Maps/Waze is more convenient. Buy a local SIM card or activate roaming for internet access.

If the car I receive is not the same as the one I booked, what should I do?

Bookings usually guarantee a car category, not a specific make/model. If the category is equivalent, it is considered correct. If you receive a smaller category than booked, you have the right to request a change or a partial refund.

Do rental cars in Spain usually have mileage limits?

Most rentals come with Unlimited Mileage, but some special offers may have mileage limits. Check carefully during booking and in the rental agreement.

How is driving in Spain different from driving in Thailand?

In Spain you drive on the right-hand side of the road (left-hand drive cars), unlike Thailand where you drive on the left. Pay special attention to directions, especially when entering/exiting roundabouts and when turning left.

What are the rules for roundabouts in Spain?

Vehicles already in the roundabout always have right of way. You must wait until the traffic in the roundabout clears before entering. Signal right in advance when exiting the roundabout.

Are highways in Spain free or toll roads?

There are both free roads (Autovía, A-) and toll roads (Autopista, AP-). Google Maps will show whether a route includes tolls.

How do I pay if I use toll roads?

You can pay cash or by credit card at the toll booths. Choose the lane with card or hand symbols. Avoid the Via-T lane, which is for vehicles with an electronic toll device.

What are the speed limits in Spain?

Highways: 120 km/h; rural roads: 90 km/h; urban areas: 50 or 30 km/h. Be aware of speed cameras and high fines.

What are the street parking rules and what do the different coloured lines mean?

Blue lines (Zona Azul): paid parking. Green lines (Zona Verde): mainly for residents; visitors can park but it’s more expensive. White lines: free parking but hard to find. Yellow lines: no parking.

What is ZBE (Low Emission Zone)? What should I be aware of?

It’s a low emission zone in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Rental cars usually have the required environmental sticker to enter, but confirm this with the rental company before entering a ZBE.

How do I refuel in Spain?

Most stations are self-service. Park at the pump, remember the pump number, go inside and tell the cashier, choose the fuel type (Gasolina/diesel), pay, then refuel yourself. Make sure you use the correct fuel type.

Can I use my mobile phone while driving in Spain?

No. Using a handheld phone while driving is strictly prohibited. You must use a hands-free or Bluetooth system. Fines are heavy if you are caught.

Can Spanish police stop foreigners to check documents?

Yes, they can. If stopped, you must show your passport, Thai driving licence, and IDP.

What is the procedure for returning a rental car in Spain?

Drive to the Car Rental Return/Devolución de Coches area, park in the designated space, then take the keys and documents to the counter. At some locations you can drop the keys in a key box.

How full should the fuel tank be when I return the car?

Refuel to a full tank shortly before returning the car and keep the receipt. If you have a Full to Full policy and the tank isn’t full, you’ll be charged for fuel plus a refuelling fee.

What happens if I return the car late?

Most companies offer a 30–60 minute grace period. Beyond that, they may charge an extra full day. If you know you will be late, inform the rental company.

How do staff inspect the car at return?

Staff will check for new damage, fuel level, and mileage. If everything is fine, they will sign off the return. If you return the car outside office hours without staff present, take photos of the car and dashboard as proof.

How do I know the final charges? Are there hidden fees?

Ask for a final invoice when you return the car. If you’ve prepaid in full and there are no fines or extra fees, no additional charges should apply. Most “hidden” charges come from returning the car with less fuel, excessive dirt, or traffic fines.

What should I do if I receive a traffic fine after my trip?

The fine is sent to the rental company, which charges an administration fee (30–50 euros) to your credit card and then sends the fine to your address in Thailand. You can usually pay online, and early payment often receives a discount.

When will my deposit be released after returning the car?

The hold is usually released within 7–15 days, depending on the rental company and your bank. If it takes more than 1 month, contact the rental company or your bank.

Is the insurance included in the rental price sufficient?

No. It is usually only basic coverage (CDW/TP) with a high excess (800–2000 euros).

What is the excess?

It is the maximum amount you must pay if an incident occurs. For example, if the excess is 1000 euros and the repair costs 600 euros, you pay 600 euros. If the repair costs 3000 euros, you only pay 1000 euros and the insurer covers the rest.

What type of insurance should I buy for full coverage?

You have two main options: 1) Buy Super CDW/Zero Excess at the counter (more expensive but you don’t need to pay upfront for damages), or 2) Buy a Full Refund insurance via QEEQ (cheaper, but you must pay the rental company first and then claim reimbursement).

What should I do if the car gets scratched or has a minor collision?

Stop in a safe place, take photos as evidence, and call the rental company’s emergency number. Do not make private arrangements with the other party.

What should I do in a major accident (injuries / car not drivable)?

1) Put on a reflective vest and place the warning triangle. 2) Call 112 (emergency). 3) Contact the rental company. 4) Complete a joint accident report with the other party, if any.

What should I do if the car or items in the car are stolen?

Report it to the police immediately and obtain a report (Denuncia), then inform the rental company. Personal belongings are usually not covered by insurance, so do not leave valuables in the car.

What is the emergency phone number in Spain?

112. It is free, works throughout Spain and Europe, and there are operators who speak English.

What should I do if the car breaks down on the road?

Most rental agreements include 24-hour roadside assistance. Call the number shown on the rental agreement or key tag, give your location, and wait for help.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Spain for Thai Travelers

Embarking on a journey from Thailand to explore Spain's rich culture and scenic roads is thrilling! However, questions may arise like:

Can Thai Citizens Drive in Spain?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Thai Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Top Destinations for Travelers in Spain

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Spain

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rule Differences Between Thailand and Spain

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a journey from Thailand to explore Spain's rich culture and scenic roads is thrilling!
However, questions may arise like: