If you’re a car owner from the UK, you’ll know what an MOT is, but how savvy are you about the Spanish ITV?
Just like a thorough health check-up, the Spanish ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos) is a roadworthiness test that ensures your vehicle meets safety and environmental standards. It’s like getting a green light for your car’s performance.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the Spanish ITV process, give you tips on how to prepare your car, and help you understand the cost and documentation needed for ITV renewal.
So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Spanish ITV Process
So, you want to learn more about the ITV in Spain. Well, the ITV, or Inspección Técnica de Vehículos, is a roadworthiness test that all vehicles in Spain must undergo to ensure they meet safety standards.
You’ll need to know how often you should renew your ITV, as it varies depending on the age and type of vehicle.
What Is The ITV in Spain?
The ITV is the roadworthiness test for motor vehicles in Spain, and it is mandatory to have a valid ITV certificate. Without a current ITV certificate, it is illegal to drive your car.
To find an ITV station in your region, visit the official website.
The price of the ITV test varies depending on the province and the size of your vehicle.
New cars are first tested after four years and then every two years until they are ten years old. Cars over ten years old must be tested annually.
Motorcycles, mopeds, and quad bikes are first tested after five years and then every two years.
After the ITV test, you will receive a document with the inspection results. Make sure to promptly repair any minor faults to avoid fines.
How Often Should I Renew ITV in Spain?
To ensure compliance with roadworthiness standards in Spain, you should renew your ITV certificate according to the specific timeframes based on your vehicle type and age.
Cars are first tested four years after their first registration date, and then every two years thereafter. However, cars over 10 years old must be tested annually.
Motorbikes and quadricycles have a similar schedule, being tested four years after their first registration date and then every two years.
Buses and coaches, on the other hand, are tested five years after their first registration date and every six months thereafter.
Mopeds have a different timeframe, being tested three years after their first registration date and then every two years.
It is important to adhere to these renewal schedules to ensure that your vehicle remains roadworthy and in compliance with the law.
The Actual Spanish ITV Step By Step
When scheduling your ITV inspection, make sure to provide your license plate number and the last 6 digits of your Vehicle Identification Number. You can easily schedule your ITV inspection by phone or through the ITV Cita website.
Be sure to give yourself enough time before the inspection in case your car needs any repairs or additional inspections by a mechanic.
On the day of your inspection, go to the nearest ITV station and obtain a ticket from one of the kiosks inside the building. Once your ticket number is called, pay the necessary fees and wait outside until your license plate is displayed on the screen.
Follow the instructions given by the inspector during the inspection, and if you pass, you will receive your paperwork and the ITV sticker.
Don’t forget to affix the sticker on the upper-right part of your windshield.

Documents Required for the Spanish ITV
Make sure you have the necessary documents for the Spanish ITV inspection. These include the technical sheet, green sheet, insurance card, and ID. These documents are essential for the inspection process.
The technical sheet provides detailed information about your vehicle, including its specifications and modifications. It is important to have this document to ensure that your vehicle meets the required standards of roadworthiness.
The green sheet, also known as the Permiso de Circulación, proves that your vehicle is registered and legal to drive. This document is necessary to show that your vehicle is in compliance with the law.
The insurance card is proof of valid insurance coverage for your vehicle. It is important to have this document to demonstrate that you have the necessary insurance for your vehicle.
Finally, you will need to bring a valid form of identification, such as your ID card or passport. This is necessary to verify your identity during the inspection process.
These documents will be checked during the ITV inspection to ensure that your vehicle meets the required standards of roadworthiness. It is important to have all these documents in order and easily accessible when you arrive at the ITV station.
Tips for Preparing Your Car for the Spanish ITV
Ensure that all necessary repairs are completed before taking your vehicle for the ITV inspection in order to increase your chances of passing.
Before the inspection, it is essential to have your vehicle in good working condition. The inspector will thoroughly examine various components such as emissions, tire tread, lights, brakes, steering, wheel alignment, and shock absorbers.
If any of these components are faulty, it is important to have them repaired beforehand. You can seek assistance from local car mechanics who can help prepare your vehicle for the inspection. They may even offer a service to take your car to the ITV station. Taking advantage of this service can save you time and effort.
Common Reasons for Failing the Spanish ITV
If you do fail the Spanish ITV, don’t panic. It’s not the end of the world.
Take note of the reasons for failure, get the necessary repairs done, and schedule another test.
If You Do Fail
When you fail the ITV inspection, you will receive a document with a stamp indicating ‘Disfavorable’ and the reasons for the failure.
This document is important as it provides you with valuable information about the specific faults that caused the failure. While the inspectors may not have time to explain the faults to you in detail, the document will clearly outline what needs to be remedied in order to pass the inspection.
It is crucial to carefully review the reasons for failure and take prompt action to fix the identified faults. Remember that you have a set amount of time to return to the ITV station for another test after fixing the failed items. If you are able to fix the items on the same day, you can bring your vehicle back for a retest without any additional charge.
However, if the repairs cannot be completed within the same day, it is important to get them fixed within 15 days to receive a discount on the next ITV inspection. After 15 days, you will be charged the full amount for the inspection.
How to Schedule and Pass the Spanish ITV
To schedule and pass the Spanish ITV, you need to know your ITV renewal date and schedule the inspection via phone or the ITV Cita website. Make sure you are aware of the date listed on your Permiso de Circulación. Once you have the date, you can either call to schedule the inspection or visit the ITV Cita website. Provide your license plate number and Vehicle Identification Number when scheduling.
Before the inspection, give yourself enough time to make any necessary repairs or have a mechanic inspect your vehicle. On the scheduled day, go to the ITV station and obtain a ticket from the kiosk inside. Pay the fees and wait outside for your turn.
During the inspection, follow the instructions given by the inspector. If you pass, you will receive the necessary paperwork and an ITV sticker. Affix the sticker on the upper-right part of your windscreen/windshield.
In the event that you fail the inspection, you will receive your documentation back with a stamp indicating the reasons for failure. You can return within a set time period with the failed items fixed for another test.
What Items Do I Need For ITV Renewal?
When it comes to ITV renewal, it’s important to gather the necessary documentation.
Make sure you have your Inspecciones Técnicas or technical sheet, Permiso de Circulación (green sheet), compulsory vehicle insurance card or last payment receipt, and any additional ID that may be required.
These documents are essential for a smooth ITV renewal process and to ensure compliance with roadworthiness standards.
What Documentation Do I Need?
You need to have the Inspecciones Técnicas or technical sheet, Permiso de Circulación, compulsory vehicle insurance card, and additional ID for the ITV inspection. These documents are essential for the renewal process.
The technical sheet provides important information about your vehicle’s specifications and modifications.
The Permiso de Circulación is the green sheet that proves your vehicle is registered and authorized to be on the road.
The compulsory vehicle insurance card shows that you have valid insurance coverage for your vehicle.
Additionally, you may be required to provide additional identification, such as your NIE, depending on the specific requirements of the ITV station.
Make sure to gather all the necessary documents before your ITV inspection to ensure a smooth and successful renewal process.
What Is The Cost Of Spanish ITV Renewal
Finding an ITV station in Spain is simple and straightforward. The cost of the ITV test varies depending on your vehicle type and province. To locate an ITV station, you can visit the official website. It provides information on the nearest stations in your region. Once you find a station, you can schedule an inspection either by phone or through the ITV Cita website using your license plate and Vehicle Identification Number.
It is important to note that the cost of the ITV test can vary depending on factors such as the size of your vehicle and the province where the test is conducted. For specific details on the fees, you can visit the website of the ITV station in your province or region.
The process itself is quite simple and straightforward. All you need to do is bring the required documentation. This includes the technical sheet, the green sheet, the compulsory vehicle insurance card or payment receipt, and any additional identification that may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Consequences of Driving Without a Valid ITV Certificate in Spain?
Driving without a valid ITV certificate in Spain can result in fines or license confiscation. It is illegal and can have serious consequences. Ensure your vehicle has a current ITV certificate to avoid any legal issues.
Are Vehicles From Other EU Member States Required to Undergo the Spanish ITV Test?
Yes, vehicles from other EU member states are required to undergo the Spanish ITV test. The acceptance of inspection certificates from other Member States is subject to verification. Make sure to check the specific requirements for your vehicle.
Can I Schedule an ITV Inspection Online?
Yes, you can schedule an ITV inspection online. Simply visit the official ITV website or use the ITV Cita website. Enter your license plate and Vehicle Identification Number to book your inspection appointment.
What Happens if My Vehicle Fails the ITV Inspection?
If your vehicle fails the ITV inspection, you will receive documentation with a stamp indicating the failure and the reasons. You’ll have a set time period to fix the issues and retest.
How Long Does the ITV Renewal Process Typically Take?
The ITV renewal process typically takes a few hours. You need to schedule an inspection, make any necessary repairs, pay fees, and follow the inspector’s instructions. If you pass, you’ll receive the necessary paperwork and ITV sticker.