Buy a Car in Spain

To buy a car in Spain, you will need several important documents. First, you must have a valid NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is the foreigner identification number in Spain. You’ll also need a valid passport or national ID card, and proof of address such as a utility bill or rental contract. If you are a resident, your residency certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión) might also be required. These documents are necessary whether you’re buying a new or used car, and they help ensure the vehicle is registered legally in your name.

Yes, foreigners can absolutely buy a car in Spain, whether they are residents or non-residents. However, the process is a bit smoother for those who live in Spain and have an NIE and a local address. If you’re a non-resident, a car subscription could be a good alternative to buying a car.

To register a car in your name after you buy a car in Spain, you must follow a few official steps.

First, ensure the seller provides the vehicle’s documentation, including the Permiso de Circulación (driving permit), ficha técnica (technical sheet), and proof of the latest ITV (vehicle inspection).

You’ll then need to visit the local Traffic Office (DGT) with your ID, NIE, proof of address, and completed forms. The registration tax must be paid, and if it’s a used car, a transfer tax also applies. Once approved, you’ll receive a new Permiso de Circulación in your name and the car will be legally yours.

Yes, when you buy a car in Spain, there are several taxes to consider. If you’re purchasing a new car, you may need to pay registration tax (Impuesto de Matriculación) and VAT (IVA). When buying a used car from a private seller, you typically pay a transfer tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales), which varies by region but is often around 4% to 8%. You’ll also have to pay the annual road tax (Impuesto de Circulación). It’s important to budget for these extra costs as they can add significantly to the total price.

With a car subscription, Rentiago pays all taxes and insurance for you. Apart from the monthly instalment, you only have to pay for refuelling the vehicle. Sounds good? Then read more about the car subscription here.

Before you buy a car in Spain — especially a second-hand vehicle — it’s important to make sure there are no hidden debts or legal issues tied to it. One of the best ways to do this is by getting a vehicle history report (Informe del Vehículo) from the DGT, which is the Spanish Traffic Department. This report will tell you if the car has any unpaid fines, loans, legal claims or if it has ever been stolen. You can request this report online by entering the car’s registration number, and it usually costs only a small fee.

Some car dealers or websites might include this report in the buying process, but if not, it’s worth doing yourself. Don’t move forward with the purchase until you’ve confirmed everything is clean and the car doesn’t have any legal or financial issues attached.

Rentiago tip: if you use our Car Check Service, we will carry out this check automatically and free of charge for you. So you are always on the save side.

When you buy a car in Spain, you’ll hear about the ITV, which stands for Inspección Técnica de Vehículos. It’s a mandatory technical inspection to ensure that cars meet safety and emissions standards. For new cars, the first ITV is due four years after registration. After that, it must be done every two years until the car is ten years old, and then every year.

Make sure the vehicle you buy has a valid ITV certificate, as driving without it can lead to fines and legal trouble.

When you decide to buy a car in Spain, you can choose between dealerships and private sellers. Dealerships often provide more legal protection, offer warranties, and take care of most paperwork. However, their prices are usually higher. Private sellers may offer better prices but require more caution, especially when verifying documents and the car’s condition.

Our Car Check Service will help you with both options.

Yes, it’s possible to finance a car when you buy a car in Spain, even as a foreigner. Most car dealerships offer financing plans, and some Spanish banks provide car loans to non-residents, though the terms may be stricter. You’ll typically need to show proof of income, your NIE, and a Spanish bank account. Interest rates and conditions can vary, so it’s a good idea to compare offers. Make sure you understand all terms before signing any agreement.

To safely buy a used car in Spain, inspect the vehicle’s condition carefully and check its service history. Make sure the car has passed its latest ITV and ask for a vehicle history report to verify its legal status. Look for signs of accidents, rust, or irregular wear and tear. It’s wise to take the car to a mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection. Finally, confirm the identity of the seller and ensure all paperwork is accurate and up to date.