When bringing a foreign registered car into Spain the procedure will depend upon whether you are a resident or not.

Please note this information is only for EU citizens, who are the primary readers of this web site.  Information on importing cars can charge very quickly and we do advise that you check the requirements with the Traffic Department (jefatura de tráfico) or a gestor.

Importing a vehicle can be a complicated process and we advise you use the services of a gestor.  However, if you are brave enough to undertake the re-registration yourself the below is some useful advice.

Don’t be tempted to drive your vehicle illegally on foreign plates as the fines are very severe and your vehicle could be confiscated.

Non Residents
A car with foreign plates can only be driven by non-residents in Spain for 6 months before it has to be re-registered with Spanish plates or not driven.  The 6 months count as 6 calendar months and are based on how long the vehicle driver is in the country, not how long the vehicle is in Spain.  The vehicle can remain in Spain after this period but it cannot be driven.

The vehicle must have a valid MOT from the country where it is registered. 

Residents
Residents of Spain have 6 months to get their car re-registered as a Spanish vehicle from the date it arrives in Spain
. 
Application is made at the Traffic Department (jefatura de tráfico) and the following documents are required:

• Completed application form available from the Traffic Department
• Identification (residencia certificate/NIE number/passport)
• Proof of address
• Registration document
• Valid Spanish MOT (ITV) certificate link
• Proof vehicle tax has been paid
• Proof you’ve paid registration tax if relevant
• Receipt for payment of the vehicle
• Proof VAT was paid on the purchase of the vehicle

Take originals and photocopies of all documents.