The full guide
What do you need to buy a car in Spain?
You need an NIE, a Spanish address (your padrón certificate helps), and a valid driving licence. If you hold a UK licence and live in Spain, remember the six-month exchange deadline.
Dealer or private seller?
| Buying from | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dealer | Legal warranty, paperwork done for you, VAT included in the price | Higher prices |
| Private seller | Lower prices | No warranty; you check everything and pay transfer tax |
Checks before you pay
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| DGT vehicle report | Shows owners, debts, fines, seizures and mileage records (€8.67) |
| ITV | The roadworthiness test must be valid |
| Environmental label | Cities such as Barcelona and Madrid restrict older cars in low-emission zones |
| Service history | And the technical sheet (ficha técnica) |
| Road tax receipt | The last IVTM payment |
Taxes and fees for a used car
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Transfer tax (ITP, form 620) | Usually 4% to 8% of the official value, depending on region; many regions charge little or nothing on older cars |
| DGT transfer fee | €55.70 |
| Gestor (optional) | A fee for handling the paperwork |
Pay the transfer tax before going to the DGT. The buyer has 30 days from the contract to register the change.
After you buy
Insure the car before driving it. Pay the municipal road tax (IVTM) each year to your town hall. Keep the ITV up to date: cars over four years old are inspected every two years, and over ten years every year.
Importing a car from abroad
Bringing a car from outside Spain means registering it here: a technical inspection, the registration tax and Spanish plates. It’s often cheaper to sell at home and buy in Spain, especially for right-hand-drive UK cars.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a car without being resident?
You can with an NIE, but registering and insuring it is easier as a resident.
Who pays the transfer tax?
The buyer, in a private sale. Dealers include VAT instead.
Can I drive on foreign plates?
Residents must register cars in Spain. Visitors can drive foreign-registered cars temporarily.
