How to Import and Register a Car in Spain. (2025 guide)
Maybe Spanish Solutions can even do it for free!
Thinking about bringing your car to Spain? Whether you’re relocating, retiring, or staying long-term, importing and registering your vehicle, known as “matriculación”, can be a worthwhile move. But be prepared: the process involves multiple steps, paperwork, taxes, and technical checks.
At Spanish Solutions, we guide you through the entire process and offer professional vehicle registration services starting from €300 (excluding VAT). Read on to understand what’s involved and how you can get the job done for FREE!
What Is Vehicle Matriculation in Spain?
Matriculación is the legal process of registering your vehicle with the Spanish traffic authority (DGT – Dirección General de Tráfico). Once your car is registered, you’ll receive Spanish license plates and be legally allowed to drive on Spanish roads.
This is required for:
- Imported cars from abroad (including EU countries).
- Vehicles bought in Spain but never registered.
- Cars owned by new residents staying longer than 6 months.
Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Car in Spain.
1. Collect Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Original registration documents from the country of origin.
- Proof of ownership (sales invoice, title, or bill of sale).
- Technical specifications sheet (Ficha Técnica).
- ID: Passport or NIE, plus proof of address (empadronamiento).
2. Technical Inspection (ITV)
Your car must pass an ITV inspection, similar to an MOT in the UK. This confirms your vehicle meets Spain’s safety and environmental standards.
If it’s an imported car, this might take place at a special ITV station with equipment for non-Spanish vehicles.
3. Pay the Required Taxes
- Registration Tax (Impuesto de Matriculación): Based on CO₂ emissions.
- Road Tax (Impuesto de Circulación): Paid annually to your local town hall.
- Import Duties & VAT: If the vehicle is from outside the EU.
These taxes are calculated separately and vary depending on the vehicle.
4. Register with the DGT
Submit all documentation and receipts to the DGT (online or in person). Once approved, you’ll receive your permiso de circulación (driving permit) and vehicle log book.
5. Get Your Spanish License Plates
After successful registration, you can order and install Spanish license plates from an authorised provider.
Special Considerations for Imported Vehicles
Importing a vehicle from another country adds extra steps:
Customs Clearance
Vehicles from outside the EU must go through customs, and you’ll need to pay import taxes and duties.
Certificate of Conformity (COC)
A COC certifies that your vehicle complies with EU standards. If your car doesn’t have one, it may require individual homologation, which is more complex and costly.
Our Matriculation Service – Starting from €300 (Ex. VAT)
Let us handle the hassle! Our vehicle registration service covers:
- Full document processing
- Booking and assisting with ITV
- Help calculating taxes
- DGT registration and plate ordering
Note: Taxes (registration, import, road) and ITV costs are charged separately.
However, if you are thinking of using Spanish Solutions for conveyancing, property purchase and other services, we can do a special deal for you.
Summary: What You Need to Know. (and what Spanish Solutiosn will do for you!)
| Step | Description |
| Documents | Ownership proof, ID, technical info |
| ITV | Technical safety and emissions check |
| Taxes | Matriculation tax, road tax, and possible import duties |
| DGT | Registration and number assignment |
| Plates | Order from a licensed plate supplier |
Ready to Import Your Car to Spain?
Importing and registering a car in Spain doesn’t have to be stressful. With expert guidance and efficient service, you’ll be on the road legally and confidently in no time.
Contact us today to start your matriculation process or just ask us a question. We’re happy to help. You can find us in Cabo Roig, La Zenia, online, or in person!