Rent a Car in Spain Canary Islands: Unbeatable Deals!

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Renting a Car in Spain Canary Islands

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful Spain Canary Islands, renting a car can be a great way to explore the stunning landscapes and charming towns at your own pace. However, before you hit the road, it’s important to understand the local driving laws and requirements to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Understanding Local Driving Laws

In Spain Canary Islands, driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and the minimum driving age is 18 years old. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the use of mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited. It’s also important to be aware of the speed limits, which vary depending on the type of road.

Requirements for Renting a Car

When renting a car in Spain Canary Islands, most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Additionally, an international driving permit may be necessary for non-EU residents.

Car rental companies may also require a security deposit, which is typically held on a credit card. It’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the rental agreement to understand any additional requirements or fees.

Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience

Before renting a car, it’s a good idea to research and compare different car rental companies to find the best deal for your trip. Additionally, be sure to inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and take note of it on the rental agreement to avoid any disputes upon returning the vehicle.

Finally, familiarize yourself with the local road signs and parking regulations to avoid any unnecessary fines or penalties during your travels in Spain Canary Islands.

By understanding the local driving laws and requirements, and following these tips for a smooth rental experience, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring Spain Canary Islands by car.

Rental Requirements

Age Limits

When renting a car in the Canary Islands, the minimum age for rentals is typically 21 years old, although some car rental companies may require drivers to be at least 25 years old. Additionally, there may be a maximum age limit, usually around 70 years old, for renting a car in the Canary Islands.

Driving License Requirements

To rent a car in the Canary Islands, drivers must have a valid driver’s license. If your driver’s license is not in a language using the Latin alphabet, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your license. It is also important to note that you must have held your driver’s license for a minimum period, usually one year, in order to be eligible to rent a car in the Canary Islands.

Documentation

When renting a car in the Canary Islands, you will need to present several documents, including a valid passport, a credit card in the name of the main driver for the security deposit, and any additional documentation required by the specific car rental company. It’s important to check the requirements with your chosen car rental company before your trip to ensure a smooth rental process.

Insurance Information

When renting a car in Spain, specifically in the Canary Islands, it’s important to understand the insurance options available to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.

Basic Insurance

The basic insurance typically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection. CDW covers the costs of damage to the rental vehicle in the event of a collision, while Theft Protection covers the loss of the vehicle due to theft.

Additional Insurance

In addition to the basic insurance, travelers have the option to purchase additional insurance such as Personal Accident Insurance and Supplemental Liability Insurance. Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and accidental death benefits for the driver and passengers, while Supplemental Liability Insurance offers increased protection in the event of third-party claims.

Insurance Tips

Before renting a car in the Canary Islands, it’s recommended to check existing travel insurance policies to see if they include coverage for rental vehicles. This can help avoid purchasing duplicate insurance and save money on additional coverage. It’s also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.

Understanding the insurance options when renting a car in the Canary Islands can provide peace of mind and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Local Driving Laws and Regulations in Spain Canary Islands

General Traffic Rules

Driving Side: In Spain Canary Islands, driving is on the right side of the road.
Speed Limits: The speed limit in urban areas is typically 50 km/h, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways.
Other Useful Info: Make sure to carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents at all times.

Overtaking and Lane Usage

Overtaking Rules: Only overtake on the left, and it’s prohibited in areas with solid white lines.
Lane Discipline: Always keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
Other Useful Info: Be cautious of motorbikes and cyclists when changing lanes.

Seat Belt and Child Safety

Seat Belt Laws: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the front and rear seats.
Child Safety: Children under 12 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use a child restraint system.
Other Useful Info: It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers are wearing seat belts.

Use of Mobile Phones

Mobile Phone Restrictions: It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Use a hands-free system if necessary.
Other Useful Info: Pull over to a safe spot if you need to make a call or send a text message.

Alcohol and Driving

Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 grams per liter for experienced drivers and 0.3 grams per liter for new drivers and professional drivers.
Zero Tolerance Policies: New drivers and commercial drivers have stricter rules and lower alcohol limits.
Other Useful Info: Designated drivers are always a safer option.

Tolls and Charges

Toll Roads: There are toll roads in Spain Canary Islands, and payment methods include cash, credit card, or electronic toll tags.
Congestion Charges: There are no urban congestion charges in the Canary Islands.
Other Useful Info: Plan your route in advance to avoid unexpected toll roads.

Roundabouts and Intersections

Navigating Roundabouts: Vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way, and you should signal your exit.
Intersection Rules: Vehicles on the right have the right of way at intersections.
Other Useful Info: Be prepared for fast and aggressive driving in cities like Las Palmas.

Headlight and Windshield Wiper Laws

Headlight Usage: Headlights must be on from sunset to sunrise, during poor visibility, and in tunnels.
Windshield Wiper Rule: Headlights must also be on when using windshield wipers.
Other Useful Info: Always keep your headlights and wipers in good working condition.

Emergency Vehicles

Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles: Pull over to the side of the road and stop to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
Other Useful Info: Do not follow emergency vehicles closely or attempt to pass them.

Driving Tips for Spain Canary Islands

Road Conditions

The road conditions in the Canary Islands can vary, with some roads being well-maintained while others may have potholes or rough surfaces. It’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings while driving, especially in more rural areas.

Urban vs. Rural Driving

In urban areas such as Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you can expect a higher volume of traffic and narrower streets. In rural areas, the roads may be less congested but could be winding and hilly. It’s important to adjust your driving style accordingly and be prepared for different road conditions.

Navigational Tips

Using a GPS or maps can be very helpful, especially if you are not familiar with the area. However, it’s also a good idea to have a general understanding of where you are going before you start driving. Many roads in the Canary Islands are well-marked, but having a navigation system can provide added peace of mind.

Other Useful Tips

– Drive on the right side of the road.
– Be aware of local traffic laws and speed limits, which can vary from the mainland.
– Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly in more rural areas.

Remember to drive safely and enjoy exploring the beautiful Canary Islands by car!

Roadside Assistance and Emergency Procedures

Breakdown Procedures

If you experience a breakdown while renting a car in Spain’s Canary Islands, the first step is to pull over to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and assess the situation. If it is safe to do so, place a warning triangle behind your vehicle to alert other drivers. Next, contact the rental company’s emergency assistance line to report the breakdown and follow their instructions for further assistance.

Emergency Services

In the event of an emergency, it’s essential to have the contact numbers for local authorities and roadside assistance readily available. In Spain’s Canary Islands, the emergency contact number for police is 112, and for medical emergencies, it is 061. Additionally, rental companies often provide their own roadside assistance contact numbers that should be used in the event of a breakdown.

Rental Company Policies

When renting a car in Spain’s Canary Islands, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the support offered by the rental company in case of a breakdown. Many rental companies provide 24/7 roadside assistance and towing services as part of their policies. Be sure to review the rental agreement or inquire with the rental company for specific details about their emergency procedures and support services.

Where can you Rent a Car in Spain Canary Islands?

You can browse all the city locations below, sorted alphabetically. Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) to quickly find the one you want to explore.