International Drivers License Required in Spain

This is a balanced commentary:

https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/transportation/rental-car-requirements

Until recently I thought the answer was no, but the correct answer is YES, one is required. You will not be asked for it when getting the rental car. Where you would need it is in the event of an accident or getting pulled over. If you don't have one the fine is pretty hefty (as much as 400 Euros). I've driven over there for years without one, but never had an incident. After another RS contributor corrected one of my responses and after reading the U.S. State Department's website, I went and got one for my upcoming trip.

The answer is very simple. It is legally required in Spain.

Driving in France over the years, we have been pulled over twice, for no particular reason, or maybe because we had the red licence plates of leased (buy/back) cars. We did have an IDP both times so all was well, but it is a bit unnerving and would have been even more unnerving if our documents had not been in order. I do think not having an IDP and not being fluent in the language of the country you are in, just in case you need to deal with unilngual cops, is skating on thin ice, as my dear old Dad used to say..

Spend $20 at AAA to obtain the IDP and you demonstrate respect by complyng with the laws of Spain.
Btw, use viamichellin maps to help plan your routes and also use google earth street view to preview the route. We find using street view takes alot of the guessing out of "are we at the right place?".
Enjoy a safe trip!

I must add that in Spain, without an IDP AND your driver's license (both!), then you're driving undocumented... with all that that entails. I think everybody understands what I mean, right?

Thanks to all for the unanimous replies that I do need an IDP. I will definitely get one. Pam