Whether you’re a local resident or a foreigner relocating to sunny Spain, buying a car can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. But navigating the Spanish vehicle market involves a mix of bureaucracy, paperwork, and practical decisions. Here’s what you need to know to buy a car in Spain with confidence.
1. Who Can Buy a Car in Spain?
You can legally buy a car in Spain if:
- You are a resident with an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
- You’re a non-resident, although some additional steps may apply.
- You are a foreign company or organization operating in Spain.
For most individual buyers, having an NIE is essential, along with proof of address (empadronamiento).
2. New vs. Used Cars
New Cars
- Purchased from dealerships.
- Come with a manufacturer’s warranty (typically 2-3 years).
- Prices include VAT (IVA) and registration tax.
Used Cars (Coches de Segunda Mano)
- Cheaper and widely available from private sellers, online platforms (like Milanuncios or coches.net), or second-hand dealers.
- Buyers should be cautious about hidden mechanical issues or unclear ownership history.
3. Where to Buy
- Dealerships (Concesionarios): Offer both new and certified pre-owned cars. Reliable but pricier.
- Online Marketplaces: Milanuncios, coches.net, AutoScout24.
- Private Sellers: Often cheaper, but due diligence is crucial.
4. Key Paperwork and Checks
Before making a purchase, ensure the following documents are available and verified:
- Permiso de Circulación (Vehicle Registration Certificate)
- Ficha Técnica (Technical Inspection Card)
- ITV Certificate (MOT equivalent; required for cars older than 4 years)
- Proof of road tax (Impuesto de Circulación) paid for the current year
- Transfer of ownership form (Contrato de compraventa)
- DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) title transfer (Traspaso)
Tip: You can check the car’s history through the DGT or request a Informe de Vehículo for about €8–€10.
5. Costs to Expect
- Car price (obviously)
- Transfer tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales): Around 4–8% for used cars
- Registration fee if importing
- ITV inspection if needed
- Insurance: Mandatory third-party liability insurance
- Annual road tax: Varies by municipality and vehicle type
6. Importing a Car into Spain
If you’re bringing a car from another country:
- You must register it with the Spanish traffic authority (DGT).
- Pass the Spanish ITV.
- Pay import duties if coming from outside the EU.
- Pay the Matriculación Tax based on CO2 emissions.
7. Tips for Expats and Non-Residents
- Hire a gestor (administrative agent) to assist with the paperwork.
- Make sure to change your driving license if staying long-term.
- Some regions offer low-emission incentives or tax reductions.
Buying a car in Spain is manageable with the right preparation. Whether opting for a sleek city car or a countryside SUV, understanding the legal and financial steps involved ensures a smooth process. Always do your due diligence, verify documents, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
