Loading Page...

Do I need a permit to drive in Tenerife?

In order to drive a car around Spain, it is recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). This must be carried around in addition to your valid US license.



People Also Ask

If you were to ask 'is driving in Tenerife hard? ', I'd have to answer 'no! '. Just like in any other country, some of the roads are in better condition than others, and unlike major cities, a lot of the roads are more narrow.

MORE DETAILS

All passports must be valid for at least three more months upon entry into Spain and the Canary Islands, though six is recommended. No tourist visa is needed if the stay is less than 90 days.

MORE DETAILS

Conclusion. If you are in Spain (no matter what country you are from), you must carry a valid ID card or passport at all times, and failure to do so could see the police detain you temporarily whilst they ascertain your identity, and furthermore, it is within their rights to issue a fine.

MORE DETAILS

The island's road perimeter is a mere 359 km, meaning you can circumnavigate the entire landmass in just 3-4 hours by car. The best car rental deals can usually be found at the airport. However, there are two airports in Tenerife, so be sure to compare prices before you book.

MORE DETAILS

Spain is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Spain for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. You must have sufficient funds and a return airline ticket.

MORE DETAILS

When visiting another country as a U.S. citizen:
  • Your state driver's license is valid while driving in Canada and Mexico.
  • In other countries, you may need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign drivers.


MORE DETAILS

DRIVING IN TENERIFE: SPEED LIMITS Non-motorway dual carriages have a speed limit of 120 km/hour. The A roads are limited to 100 km/hour, the out-of-town B roads 90 km/hour and the in-town B roads, 50 km/hour. As in any town or city throughout the world, all speed limits are clearly signposted.

MORE DETAILS

As a general rule, a non-resident can drive a foreign registered vehicle in Spain for up to six months in a calendar year. However for a Spanish resident, it's just 30 days from the date the vehicle first entered the country. In all cases the vehicle needs to be fully legal in the country of current registration.

MORE DETAILS

An International Driving Permit is a translation of your national driving license. The IDP allows motorists to drive vehicles in foreign countries. You must always have your IDP along with your national license at all times. To get an International Driving Permit in Spain, visit Dirección General de Tráfico Provincial.

MORE DETAILS

As for public transport, there is no train or underground in Tenerife, but an efficient network of public buses, called “guaguas” by the locals, connects most towns and cities in the island.

MORE DETAILS