To think about before you rent a car

When staying at Costa del Sol, you will probably want to rent a car. Public transport is quite limited to the city centres and the main road going along the coast. Renting a car gives you the chance to discover all the best of Marbella, Puerto Banus and the surroundings.

Requirements to rent a car in Spain

The requirements for renting a car are similar in all companies in Spain and Europe. Make sure to read all the conditions in the contract before you sign to avoid surprises. 

Requirements to rent a car in Spain (and Europe)

Of course, you will need a valid driving license. Depending on the rental company, the license must be at least between 1 to 3 years old. You will also need another identification document, such as a European ID card, or your passport.

Legally, you can rent a car from the age of 18, but most companies require a minimum age of 21 to 23 years. Younger drivers are likely to have to pay a supplement and cannot choose certain categories of premium cars. Some companies will also charge more if the driver is older than 65 or 70 years old.

Most companies require the driver to be the same as the lessee and to pay with a credit or debit card to ensure that they will be able to charge you in the event of fines or other claims.

Generally, the cardholder is charged a deposit in the moment of the rental. The deposit is usually two to three times the rental price. The alternative to the deposit might be to pay more for the insurance.

Finally, you should know that the car rental company might review your ticket history and refuse to rent you the car if you have unpaid fines, or if you have been fined many times before.

Our Best Tips for Renting a Car on Costa del Sol

1. Take your time and shop around

Before renting a car, you should check the options offered by various companies and contrast them with your needs. Contact the rental agencies, check their prices and what they include. 

2. Don’t wait till the last moment

The sooner you start looking, the better: Exactly as with airline tickets and travel deals, the best car rental deals are the first to run out. In high season it can be hard to find the car you are looking for.

3. Documents

Make sure that both your driving license and your identity documents are not expired. Ask if you need to pay by credit card, or other company requirements, such as your minimum age.

4. Gasoline

Car rental companies on Costa del Sol have different fuel policies. Most of them deliver rented vehicles with a full deposit. That you have to pay for, but they do not make any refund for the gasoline that is left when you return the car.

5. Extras

Car rental companies often offer you additional extras such as children’s seats, GPS or a larger vehicle than you request. Make sure what is included in the price. 

6. Sign up for a comprehensive and extensive insurance

You never know what can happen, and less when you drive in an environment that is not yours, therefore it is advisable to take sign up for a full risk car insurance. Pay attention to the conditions of the insurance regarding the driver. In most cases, the insurance only covers accidents if the insurance holder drives the car. Most rental companies offer the possibility to add another driver, paying a supplement.

Before signing the insurance, find out what the coverages are and if it is a franchised insurance or not. If it is franchised, the insurance might be cheaper, but you would have to assume a part of the cost in the event of an accident, vehicle damage or robbery.

7. Check the car

Before accepting the car, check that it is exactly in the conditions that are specified in the contract. If you see any dents or scratches, notify the car rental company at once.

8. Airport drop off

The best car rental companies on Costa del Sol have airport drop off in Malaga 24/7. Keep it in mind if your flight home leaves early in the morning or late at night, and make sure you arrive at the airport with time enough to drop the car. 

If you need advice or help to rent a car while staying with us at Quartiers Marbella Apartments, feel free to contact our staff in the reception. We are here to help and we can also arrange a car with driver for you. And remember, we offer free parking at the resort for all our guests. Welcome to Quartiers Marbella and Costa del Sol!