Can I drive without a license?
Driving without a license is a crime. Therefore, the answer is definitely no!
What is a valid driver’s license?
We left this topic at the end, only because it was important to give space and attention to the previous points, which are often underestimated. A valid driver’s license means all those licenses that belong to the Schengen area, that are from the European Community or that are subject to a bilateral agreement between countries. For example, an Italian driver’s license is valid in Spain and the Spanish one is valid in Italy. In the same way, the British license is valid in Spain because the Spanish license is valid in Great Britain. And so on for all Schengen and EU states. In addition, there are bilateral agreements between non-EU and non-Schengen countries. The following non-EU patents are recognized in Spain: Algeria, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Macedonia, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Serbia, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine. Uruguay, Venezuela. For all other licenses, an International Driving Permit is required to accompany the official driving license. The International Driving Permit, is that gray or blue booklet, issued by the Motorization of the country of origin without having to take any driving test. The IDP validates the license for the same conditions obtained in the home country after the driving test. For example, if you have an A and B driver’s license in your home country, then with the International Driving Permit, you will have the same rights in the rest of the world for one year. The cost varies from country to country and is around 20 € or 25 $.
Can I rent a scooter in Barcelona with a non-EU non-recognized license and without an International Driving Permit?
Rental companies are not obliged to refuse a rental without this document, but it is also important that you know your rights and obligations in a foreign country. Therefore, in case you still want to rent a vehicle without having with you the document (IDP) accompanying your license, you have to know that the police could fine you. The penalty in Spain is about 250 € and the confiscation of the vehicle (plus other costs for the release itself). Also, in the unfortunate event of an accident, the insurance will barely cover any damage, both to you and to third parties. Therefore, in light of the above, we strongly recommend to all those who want to rent a scooter in Barcelona, to have previous experience on two wheels. As well as a valid driving license and (in the case of being non-EU citizens and not having an agreement between your country and Spain) also an International Driving License. At this point, you know everything you need to rent a scooter in Barcelona. Oh, I forgot. Also bring with you all the enthusiasm and curiosity you have to get to know the real Barcelona. You will fall in love.