FOR EXPATS IN SPAIN

Expat Car Guide

Everything you need to know about buying and owning a car in Spain — explained simply in English.

1. How to Buy a Car in Spain

  • Choose your car — Browse our stock online or visit us in Valls, Tarragona
  • Agree the price — Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
  • Finance or payment — Bank finance available through us
  • Paperwork — We handle the DGT transfer on your behalf
  • Collection or delivery — Pick up from Valls or we deliver across Spain and Europe

2. Documents You Need

  • NIE number — Número de Identidad de Extranjero (we can assist)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Proof of address in Spain — utility bill, rental contract or empadronamiento
  • Spanish bank account — required for some finance options

3. ITV — Spanish MOT

The ITV is Spain’s vehicle roadworthiness inspection — equivalent to the UK MOT.

  • Cars 4—10 years old: every 2 years
  • Cars over 10 years old: every year

We carry out pre-ITV checks and can take your car to the test centre on your behalf.

4. Road Tax (IVTM)

The IVTM is Spain’s annual road tax, paid to your local municipality. Typically between €50 and €200 per year depending on engine size — significantly cheaper than UK road tax.

5. ECO Zone Stickers

Spain uses environmental classification stickers for low emission zones in Madrid and Barcelona.

  • CERO — Electric and hydrogen vehicles
  • ECO — Plug-in hybrids
  • C label — Petrol from 2006, diesel from 2014
  • B label — Petrol 2000—2005, diesel 2006—2013

6. Importing a Car from the UK

Since Brexit, importing a UK car to Spain involves:

  • 6.5% import duty on vehicle value
  • Spanish ITV inspection
  • DGT re-registration and Spanish plates

In most cases buying locally in Spain is simpler and more cost-effective. We can advise.

Still have questions?

WhatsApp us in English, 7 days a week.

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