A task which you must do your research on before proceeding.  Because the laws and regulations are prone to change this page only aims to guide you through the basics.  

We advise you to check and double check thoroughly before parting with any money.  Having said that, provided you do this, everything should be straightforward.

To buy a car you will need:

•    An NIE number
•    An address in Spain
•    To be registered on the Padrón in your area
•    A valid passport
•    A valid driving licence

The three main ways to buy a car are:

•    Buy new from a dealer
•    Buy secondhand from a dealer or garage (you’ll see the Ocasión sign on top of used cars)
•    Buy privately

The main documents you should ensure you receive when buying a car are:

•    Registration document/log book - Permiso de circulación
•    MOT – ITV – Inspección Técnica de Vehículos
                   (if the vehicle is over 4 years old)
•    Transfer of ownership document – Transferencia

In addition you will need to pay tax annually – (payable to the Town Hall - Ayuntamiento)

Buying new is probably the safest way to buy a car as all the paperwork should be in order; however, we don’t all have the luxury of being able to afford this.

Buying second-hand from a dealer or garage can be the next best way.  

Use a reputable garage and they should make the process fairly painless for you.  It is usual for a dealer to take care of the paperwork, including the transfer to you, but make sure you check this before buying.  

If you buy from a smaller garage you will need to check what paperwork issues the garage will undertake for you.

Making a private purchase can go smoothly as long as you do your research.  One very important point to remember is that it is your responsibility to get the car transferred into your name.  To do this you will need to go to the Jefatura de Tráfico in Alicante.

In some cases you can employ the services of a gestor to take care of the transfer for you, however, remember you will need to pay their fee.  In all cases it is advisable for both the buyer and seller to both attend the transfer process to avoid any problems.

A point worth noting is that it is highly unlikely you will get finance for the purchase of a car without an NIE number.

You must carry the originals of all your car documentation in the vehicle with you at all times.