Vehicle inspection in Spain (2026)

Last reviewed: 7 November 2026

In short: Passenger cars are exempt from the ITV test up to 4 years from first registration, then tested every 2 years and yearly after 10 years. Tests take place at authorised ITV stations. A missed test is a serious offence with a EUR 200 fine.

RuleWhat applies
First inspection of a new carVehicle inspectionPassenger cars (M1) are exempt up to 4 years from first registration. From more than 4 years old they must pass the periodic ITV test. [1]
Inspection intervalVehicle inspectionPassenger cars (M1) are tested every 2 years once they are more than 4 years old, and every year once they are more than 10 years old. [1]
Who carries out the testVehicle inspectionPeriodic tests are carried out, as a general rule, at an authorised ITV station (estación ITV). [1]
Penalty for an overdue testVehicle inspectionBreaking the vehicle-inspection rules is a serious traffic offence with a fine of EUR 200. Traffic officers give the owner 10 days to have the vehicle tested; if no proof is shown, the traffic authority starts the procedure to deregister the vehicle. [2]
Foreign cars visitingVehicle inspection⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The sources read do not say whether foreign-registered cars visiting must have a local test, so this is not stated here.

Sources

  1. Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado: Real Decreto 920/2017, de 23 de octubre, por el que se regula la inspección técnica de vehículos (texto consolidado) (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
  2. Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado: Real Decreto Legislativo 6/2015, de 30 de octubre, por el que se aprueba el texto refundido de la Ley sobre Tráfico, Circulación de Vehículos a Motor y Seguridad Vial (texto consolidado) (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.