Registering a non-Spanish vehicle in Spain is a complex and potentially costly procedure. However, you may be exempt from Spanish registration tax by getting Spanish number plates within one month of entering the country. But to do this, you need to become a resident. Linea Directa has been offering car insurance for expat drivers in Spain for over a decade and understands all the steps involved. Below we outline this process.
STEP 1: OBTAINING A CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY
This is a statement by the car’s manufacturer that it conforms to EU regulations. You will need the car’s chassis number to complete this straightforward process online at www.eurococ.eu/en/certificate_of_conformity. The charges for this service will vary according to type of vehicle, make and country of 1st registration.
STEP 2: CURRENT LOG BOOK
The vehicle’s original log book showing your name as the owner, the vehicles age and a valid UK address. You will also need the bill of sale for the car.
STEP 3: RESIDENCY IN SPAIN
The Spanish residency certificate (Certificado de Empadronamiento) is your official proof of residency in Spain. Your local town hall can provide you with this document. You will need to take your passport and proof of Spanish address (rental contract, contract to purchase or property deeds).
STEP 4: OBTAINING A SPANISH MOT CERTIFICATE
All vehicles over 4 years old must be roadworthy and clearly display a valid ITV sticker. The ITV (Vehicle Technical Inspection) must be tested at an authorised centre, just as for an MOT test. You can find out the location of your nearest ITV centre on DGT website (equivalent to the DVLA). You can also call your local centre to make a booking. If the centre is busy, especially pre-summer, this can save a lot of time. The cost can vary but generally is around 40€ for petrol-engine cars and 56€ for diesel-engine cars.
Step 5: OBTAINING A SPANISH EQUIVALENT OF A TAX DISC
The Spanish Tax Agency can provide your vehicle with a valid “tax disc” for Spain, which must be carried in the car when in use. You will need to complete the relevant form online and pay the amount according to your car’s tax band.
You can carry out all these procedures yourself or you can seek the assistance of an accountant to do this for you.
We hope the information provided in this article is of interest.
If you would like to contact Linea Directa please call 902 123 139.
More information about Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com.
