Buying a car is a little different that in the UK, you cannot just buy a car, you must provide proofs that you are resident in Spain or will be for at least a year. This section gives information on what is required to buy and sell a car in Spain.
Buying a car in Spain
If you are a foreign national you can buy a car in Spain but you must provide one or more of the following documents:
- An NIE/NIF number (a copy of the actual certificate is usually required)
- Your residence permit
- Home ownership proof of some sort, this is usually a copy of your title deeds (escritura), or if you are in a rental home then a copy of your rental contract (this usually needs to be for at least one year)
- A proof of being registered inhabitant of a town. This is can usually be obtained from the town hall.
The seller must provide the following:
- Transferencia (transfer of ownership form)
- Proof that the car tax has been paid (impuesto sobre la circulación de vehiculos)
- ITV test certificate (inspection technical de vehiculos), this is proof of road worthiness, like the MOT in the UK
- Permiso de circulation (this is to prove that the vehicle registration document has the same chassis number as the vehicle).
There is a wide range of dealers selling cars in Spain, try to establish if the dealer has a good reputation before buying from them. This applies to both new and used vehicles
Remember it is mandatory to have valid insurance in Spain, with the minimum coverage allowed of “third party, fire and theft”. See our section on Motor Insurance in Spain
Prever Plan
The Spanish government have been trying to encourage owners to replace older less efficient cars with new ones and as such will contribute to the cost of the new car if the old car is part exchanged. Be sure to ask your dealer about this.
Selling a car in Spain
As stated above the seller must provide the following documentation:
- Transferencia (transfer of ownership form)
- Proof that the car tax has been paid
- ITV test certificate (this is proof of road worthiness, like the MOT in the UK)
- Permiso de circulation (this is to proof that the vehicle registration document has the same chassis number as the vehicle).
Remember the transfer of ownership form and registration document must be taken to the traffic department to finalise the transfer, if not you may still be accountable for the actions of the new owner
