SDRUpdated September 29, 2025

Car rental at Santander airport

Santander · Spain

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SDR · Rent a car

Rental companies at the airport

Car rental companies operating at Santander airport (SDR) and where to find them. The airport is 5 km from Santander. See also the airport guide for general information.

Car rental companies at Santander Airport are located on Level 0 of the terminal building, opposite the boarding/arrivals area, offering travellers the flexibility to explore Cantabria and its surroundings at their own pace.

Requirements to Rent a Vehicle in Spain

Although specific conditions (such as minimum age and accepted cards) may vary slightly between companies, these are the general requirements and documentation you must present when collecting your rental car:

  • Minimum Age: The standard minimum age is 21 years at most companies. Drivers between 21 and 24 years old (young drivers) generally have to pay an additional daily surcharge.
  • Driving Licence (Validity): A minimum of 1 year holding the driving licence is required (some high-end vehicles may require 2 or 3 years).
  • Documentation: You must present your ID card (or original passport) and a valid original driving licence (photocopies are not accepted).
  • International Licence: If your driving licence was not issued by a European Union (EU) country, you will likely need to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national licence.
  • Payment Card: A credit card is required (debit cards are accepted in some cases, but credit is preferred) in the main driver’s name, with sufficient funds for the security deposit.

It is recommended to always review the terms and conditions of the chosen company before making a reservation.

Search for a rental car available at Santander Airport.

Companies, opening hours and desk locations can change. Check with the rental company before booking.

Compare rental cars at SDR

See prices for SDR on DiscoverCars

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Tips for renting a car in Spain

  1. Check that your driver's license is valid in Spain. Some countries also ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is only valid together with your national license.
  2. Review what the rental includes: collision damage waiver, third-party liability and the deductible. Most companies also hold a deposit on a credit card in the driver's name.
  3. Learn the local rules before you drive: speed limits, right of way, alcohol limits and tolls.
  4. Check which side of the road traffic drives on and where the steering wheel is.
  5. At pickup, photograph the car (inside and out) and the fuel level, and keep the photos until the deposit is returned.
  6. Know what to do in an accident: who to call, what to document and how to report it to the rental company.

Find the rental desks and parking on the SDR airport map.

Not driving? See other ways to get to and from SDR. Returning the car or picking someone up: parking at SDR.

German Giudici

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Creator of the Aeropuertos del Mundo website network since 2007.