The Spanish Car Registration Process:
1. Legal Translation of Documents
To begin the registration process, you’ll need to have your vehicle’s essential documents, such as the registration document, technical sheet, and purchase invoice, translated into Spanish by an officially approved translator.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC)
A Certificate of Conformity (COC) is a crucial document that verifies your vehicle’s compliance with European safety standards. GetCOC is the leading provider of authentic and official COCs, ensuring a seamless process for obtaining this essential document.
3. Get “Ficha Reducida”
In case of importing a vehicle already registered in Europe and with its European type-approval number. There is another method which is usually more economical, in case you do not have the COC for your vehicle. You can apply for a “FICHA REDUCIDA signed by an engineer. It is a document where all the characteristics of the vehicle are described.
4. Schedule a Technical Inspection
Book a technical inspection through the ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos). Make sure to have your vehicle registration documents, COC, and purchase invoice ready for this inspection.
5. Fulfill Tax Obligations Pay
the registration tax, which can be up to 15% of your vehicle’s value, depending on the model and CO2 emissions. Fill out the Modelo 576 form for this tax. Additionally, pay the road tax (IVTM) to the respective Spanish province based on your vehicle’s specifications.
6. Complete the DGT Payment
Finalize the process by paying the administrative fees to the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) for an official registration card. The current cost is €99.75, and you can pay online or schedule a physical appointment.
Converting Left-Hand Drive Vehicles for Use in Spain:
If you’re moving from a country like the UK, where vehicles have left-hand drive, you may face challenges in Spain’s right-hand drive system. Consider purchasing a used left-hand drive car already in Spain to avoid any complications.
Applying for Spanish License Plates:
Once you receive your license number from the DGT’s registration card, seek assistance from a specialist to create your new set of license plates. The cost typically ranges from €6 to €50, depending on the professional you choose.
Understanding Spanish License Plates:
Spanish license plates are white with black characters and are designed for both the front and rear of the vehicle. They feature a blue section on the left side with 12 yellow stars surrounding the letter ‘E,’ indicating Spain’s international vehicle registration code. The current system does not reveal the vehicle’s registration region, displaying only the registration number and the EU flag.
Format and Characteristics of Spanish License Plates:
Private vehicle plates in Spain consist of 7 characters, arranged as AAAA BBB. The first four characters are numbers, while the last three are letters. The letters used are consonants, with the exception of ‘Q,’ and the numbers and letters are assigned sequentially based on the vehicle’s registration order.
Registering your vehicle in Spain and obtaining Spanish license plates requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific procedures. By understanding the process and seeking the assistance of reliable service providers like GetCOC for your Certificate of Conformity, you can ensure a smooth transition for your vehicle in its new Spanish setting. Take the first step today and begin your journey towards hassle-free vehicle registration in Spain.