Can you drive in Europe with a US license?

Driving through Europe can be one of the best ways to explore it. You’re not tied to train schedules, and it gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns or countryside spots that are harder to reach.

In most cases, a US driver’s license is accepted across Europe for short stays. But the rules vary by country. Some require additional permits, and even small mistakes can lead to fines. So, in this guide, we will cover what to check before you hit the road.

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Table of contents
What to keep in mind when driving in Europe as an American Driver’s license requirements in European countries for Americans Driving rules and regulations Rules for parking Navigation Rules for crossing borders Age limits for driving a car in Europe Insurance requirements and fuel policies Average prices for renting a car in Europe Before you hit the road

What to keep in mind when driving in Europe as an American

Driving in Europe isn’t difficult, but it does take a bit of preparation. Traffic laws, road signs, and rental requirements can vary across countries, and small oversights can turn into expensive mistakes.

Here’s what you need to know before getting behind the wheel.

Driver’s license requirements in European countries for Americans

In most European countries, Americans can drive with a valid US driver’s license for up to 90 days.¹ Some countries accept it as-is, while others may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a translation.

💡 An IDP isn’t a separate license. It simply translates your US license into multiple languages and helps authorities verify that you’re legally allowed to drive. AAA and AATA are the only organizations in the US authorized to issue one.

Check local requirements before you travel. Countries like Italy, Spain, and Austria may ask for an IDP alongside your license, even for short visits.

Driving rules and regulations

Most European countries drive on the right-hand side of the road. The main exception is the United Kingdom, where drivers use the left.

💡 Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour (with the UK as an exception). Urban areas usually have a limit of 50 km/h (about 31 mph), rural roads around 80-90km/h (50-56 mph), and highways often 120/130km/h (75-81 mph). Some highways in Germany (Autobahn) may have no official limit, but recommended speeds still apply.

It’s also common to encounter roundabouts, priority signs, and stricter traffic law enforcement. Some cities have low-emission zones that require pre-registration or special stickers.

Many European countries also have toll roads or vignette systems (prepaid passes), especially in Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia. These must be purchased in advance and displayed on your windshield. Fines for missing vignettes can be steep.

Always carry your license, IDP (if required), and insurance documents when driving.

Rules for parking

Street parking in European cities can be limited and confusing. Painted lines often indicate what’s allowed:

• White lines: Usually free or paid public parking
• Blue lines: Time-restricted paid parking (typically with a parking disc)
• Yellow or red lines: No parking zones

You may need to pay at a kiosk or via a mobile app. In many cities, especially older ones, it’s easier to park in designated garages or lots outside the historic center.

Illegally parked cars may be towed or ticketed—often without warning.

Navigation

Google Maps and Waze work across Europe and are reliable for real-time navigation, traffic updates, and road closures. But if you’re driving through rural areas or border zones, it could be useful to download offline maps in advance.

Rental cars often include built-in GPS, but this may cost extra. If you’re using your phone for navigation, bring a car charger and confirm whether your plan includes international data, or else consider buying a local SIM.

Keep in mind that signage may not always be in English, especially outside major cities. Familiarizing yourself with basic road signs and local driving terms ahead of time can make a big difference.

Rules for crossing borders

One of the benefits of driving in Europe is the ability to travel easily between countries. Many borders within the Schengen Area have no physical checkpoints, but you’re still subject to local traffic laws the moment you cross.

If you’re renting a car, tell the rental agency where you plan to drive. Some rental contracts limit cross-border travel, especially into non-EU countries. Insurance coverage may also change depending on where you go.

When crossing borders, you should carry your passport, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Random checks can still happen, particularly near airports or train hubs.

Age limits for driving a car in Europe

Most European countries allow drivers to rent a car starting at age 21, though this may vary by provider. Some rental companies charge a “young driver” fee for drivers under 25, while others may not rent to anyone over a certain age, typically around 70 or 75.

Each rental company sets its own age limits and surcharges, so check the terms before booking.

You’ll also need to have held your license for at least one to two years, depending on the rental provider’s policy.

Insurance requirements and fuel policies

Rental companies in Europe are legally required to include basic insurance, often called Third Party Liability (TPL). It usually covers damage or injury to others, but not damage to your own vehicle.

To protect yourself further, you can add a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super CDW. These reduce your financial responsibility if the car is damaged or stolen. Some credit cards offer similar protection, so it’s worth checking before you pay for extras.

Fuel policies vary by provider. Some use a full-to-full system, where you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Others may offer prepaid fuel, which is more convenient but often more expensive.

Always confirm the fuel type before filling up. Many cars in Europe run on diesel.

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Average prices for renting a car in Europe

Rental car prices in Europe can vary a lot depending on the country, time of year, and the type of vehicle you choose.

On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $80 per day for a basic economy car, though rates may be lower in off-peak seasons or higher in major cities during summer.²

💡 Here’s a general breakdown of average daily rates:
Portugal and Spain: from $26–$40/day³ ⁴ France, Germany, and Italy: around $36–$48/day⁵ ⁶ ⁷ Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, Denmark): closer to $60–$124/day⁸ ⁹ ¹⁰ Switzerland and Iceland: often $70+/day¹¹ ¹²

Prices typically include basic insurance, but not extras like GPS, child seats, or cross-border travel fees. You’ll also need to factor in fuel costs and tolls, especially in countries like France or Italy.

Popular rental companies for US travelers

Most major car rental brands operate throughout Europe, and many allow online booking in advance. Some of the most commonly used providers include:

• Hertz
• Avis
• Europcar
• Enterprise
• Sixt
• Budget

In Southern Europe, you may also encounter Goldcar, Interrent, or OK Mobility for lower-cost options. These brands tend to offer cheaper rates but have stricter policies or additional fees, so it’s worth reading the terms closely.

If you’re planning to drive across borders or into rural areas, it’s a good idea to choose a well-reviewed provider with clear international policies and 24/7 support.

Before you hit the road

Renting a car in Europe gives you the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist routes. As long as you meet the license requirements and know the local rules, driving abroad is simpler than it sounds.

Just check if you need an IDP, confirm what’s included in your rental, and give yourself a bit of time to get used to the road signs.

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Sources

1. Reykjavik Cars – Driving in Europe
2. Expert Vagabond – Renting a car in Europe
3. Kayak – Spain car rentals
4. Kayak – Portugal car rentals
5. Kayak – Italy car rentals
6. Kayak – Germany car rentals
7. Kayak – France car rentals
8. Kayak – Denmark car rentals
9. Kayak – Sweden car rentals
10. Kayak – Norway car rentals
11. Kayak – Iceland car rentals
12. Kayak – Switzerland car rentals

Sources checked 07/15/2025