Can I rent a car in Portugal without an international driver's license?

Can I Rent a Car in Portugal Without an International Driver’s License?

Planning a road trip in Portugal? Knowing the driving regulations is crucial, especially regarding driver’s licenses. Here’s a concise guide to help you navigate the requirements:

EU Citizens:

• Citizens of European Union (EU) countries can drive in Portugal with their valid EU driver’s license without obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Non-EU Citizens:

• Photocopy of Driver’s License: Many non-EU driver’s licenses with photocopies are accepted for car rental in Portugal.

• Paper Licenses without Photos (UK): UK citizens holding paper driver’s licenses without photos can also rent cars in Portugal without an IDP.

IDP Exceptions:

Please note that there are bazı exceptions where an IDP may still be required:

• If your non-EU driver’s license is not written in a language that uses the Roman alphabet (e.g., Arabic, Cyrillic).
• If you plan to rent a car for an extended period exceeding 185 days.

IDP Availability:

In case you need an IDP, you can obtain it from your country of residence by contacting the relevant authorities, such as the Automobile Association (AA) or the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) in the UK.

Renting a Car:

When renting a car in Portugal, present your valid driver’s license or IDP (if required) along with your passport. Some rental companies may require an additional deposit if you do not have an EU or UK driver’s license.

Insurance:

Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage before driving in Portugal. Check with your rental company about their insurance policies and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a hassle-free car rental experience in Portugal. Remember to always check with the rental company for any specific requirements or exceptions.