(+34) 652 527 033

English support on the Costa Blanca for car-related matters, including importing from another country, registration, re-registration, obtaining number plates, and car insurance

You will find assistance for all car-related matters with us. Whether it's importing from another country, obtaining number plates, or handling registration or re-registration, we are here to help. Additionally, we can assist you with ITV appointments, workshop appointments, and driver's license matters. Our experienced team is ready to support you throughout the bureaucratic processes. Simply book the desired service using the form below, select your location, and we will take care of everything for you.
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What to expect - Services we offer

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible service and efficiently handle your concerns. We take the time to answer your questions, understand your needs, and offer customized solutions that fit your requirements and budget. We understand that these processes can often be complex, especially when conducted in a foreign language.

Organizing appointments at workshops, ITV, or the registration office
Handling all paperwork related to your vehicle
Accompanied by an English-speaking staff member
Personal companion will handle communication during appointments
Assistance with all inquiries about cars and related topics
We are your direct contact for any questions
Our Service for you

Our service is designed to assist you with all matters related to cars and transportation on the Costa Blanca. We know that clear and comprehensive advice is essential, so we offer our services in your native language. Our experienced team is here to support you with various issues, whether it's vehicle imports, obtaining license plates, registrations, or other paperwork. Additionally, we are available for ITV appointments, workshop visits, or driver's license matters. With our language-proficient staff, we ensure that you understand all necessary information and receive clear instructions.
Owning and Driving a Car in Spain - Information and Tips for Expatriates

The system for cars and traffic in Spain is regulated by various authorities and institutions. Here are some important actors and their responsibilities:

Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) – The General Directorate of Traffic is the main authority responsible for regulating road traffic in Spain. The DGT is in charge of traffic safety, issuing driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, traffic monitoring, and setting traffic regulations.

Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico – This local traffic authority is located in each province of Spain. It is responsible for administrative procedures related to vehicle registrations, driver’s licenses, and traffic offenses.

Instituto de Seguridad Vial (ISV) – The Institute of Road Safety is an institution subordinate to the DGT. It is responsible for planning, developing, and implementing measures to improve road safety in Spain.

Ayuntamiento (Municipal Administration) – Local municipal administrations have certain responsibilities related to road traffic. These include traffic planning, setting traffic rules in residential areas, and issuing parking permits.

Guardia Civil de Tráfico – The traffic police, under the jurisdiction of the Guardia Civil, monitor traffic, conduct checks, enforce traffic offenses, and ensure road safety.

It is important to note that the exact jurisdiction and responsibilities of the various authorities and institutions may vary over time. Therefore, it is advisable to contact local traffic authorities or a professional service provider for accurate and up-to-date information.

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Relax and leave all matters related to owning a car in Spain to us. We are here to accompany you at every step and ensure a smooth process for your individual needs.

Owning a car in Spain - Trust in our help and years of experience

Our service offers you the opportunity to conveniently handle all matters related to your car. Whether it’s about importing a vehicle from abroad, applying for license plates, change of ownership, or registrations, we take care of all important aspects concerning your car on the Costa Blanca.

As experts in Costa Blanca, we specialize in assisting you with all essential car-related matters. We understand how important it is for your vehicle to be in perfect condition and compliant with regulations. Therefore, we make our expertise and experience available to ensure you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Trust us to take care of all car-related matters so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us today and let us ensure that all important aspects of your car in Costa Blanca are in excellent order.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions related to Cars & Co.

How often does a vehicle need to undergo the ITV in Spain?

In Spain, vehicles must undergo regular Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV) or Technical Vehicle Inspection. The frequency of ITV inspections depends on the age of the vehicle. Here are the common intervals:

New vehicles: New vehicles must undergo the ITV for the first time after 4 years and then every 2 years.

Vehicles under 10 years: Vehicles that are younger than 10 years must undergo the ITV every 2 years.

Vehicles over 10 years: Vehicles that are older than 10 years must undergo the ITV annually.

It’s important to note that this information is up-to-date. There may be changes in regulations, so it’s advisable to check the exact requirements with the relevant authorities or an ITV testing center in Spain.

Do you also assist with arranging Spanish car insurance?

Are you looking to register your car in Costa Blanca, Spain, and in need of affordable car insurance? We are here to help! Our service involves connecting you with insurance agencies that can assist you in your language and provide you with the best possible advice.

We understand the importance of being able to communicate in your native language to fully grasp the details and conditions of car insurance. Therefore, we work with insurance agencies that have multilingual staff and can professionally and competently assist you in your preferred language.

Our goal is to provide you with a seamless process and ensure that you get the right insurance to meet your needs. With our assistance, you can rely on being taken care of by qualified insurance experts who will present all necessary information and options in a clear manner.

Secure affordable car insurance for your vehicle in Spain today. Contact us and let us know your preferred language. We will take care of getting you the right insurance for your vehicle and ensuring you are well-advised. Look forward to a worry-free time in Costa Blanca and enjoy driving with the confidence of having a solid car insurance!

At which locations do you offer this service in English?

We offer services related to cars and driver’s licenses at the following locations:

Denia, Jávea, Benitachell, Altea, Pedreguer, Teulada, Moraira, Benissa, Calpe, Alfaz del Pi, Benidorm, Finestrat, Villajoyosa, Campello, Alicante, Elche, Santa Pola, Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, Gandia, Oliva, Orihuela, Costa y Pilar de la Horadada, Xeraco, Xeresa, Valencia, Cullera, Pedreguer, Benidoleig, Orba, Alcalalí, Gata de Gorgos, Pego, Monte Pego, Xaló, Les Bassetes, Altea la Vella, Polop, La Nucia, Callosa d`en Sarrià, Castel de Castells, Mutxamel, El Campelo, Sant Joan d`Alacant, Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Santa Pola, Arenals del Sol

If your location is not listed, simply contact us, and we will see how we can assist you.

What costs do you charge for your service?

Please refer directly to the booking form for the costs of the various services related to cars. The corresponding price is indicated for each service. Please note that the prices include 21% VAT (Value Added Tax). This way, you can transparently and clearly see the costs for our services. If you have further questions regarding the prices or the booking process, we are happy to assist you.

How do I obtain a Spanish registration for my car with a Spanish license plate?

To obtain a Spanish registration for your car or vehicle with a Spanish license plate, you need to follow these steps:

Residencia or NIE: First, you must either have a valid residency (residence permit) in Spain or apply for a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). The NIE is an identification number for foreigners in Spain and is required for various administrative procedures, including vehicle registration.

Technical Inspection (ITV): Before you can register your vehicle in Spain, you need to undergo a technical inspection (ITV). The ITV checks the safety and condition of the vehicle. If the vehicle passes the inspection, you will receive a corresponding certificate required for registration.

Prepare vehicle documents: Make sure you have all the necessary vehicle documents prepared, including the vehicle registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación), the technical inspection card (Tarjeta de Inspección Técnica), and proof of car insurance. You may also need proof of purchase or importation of the vehicle.

Submit registration application: Go to your local traffic authority (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico) and submit the application for your vehicle’s registration. You must present the required documents and, if necessary, pay a fee. The exact requirements may vary depending on the local traffic authority.

Obtain license plate: Once your application is approved, and all the necessary documents have been submitted, you will receive the Spanish registration for your vehicle. You will be assigned a Spanish license plate that you need to affix to the vehicle.

It is advisable to inform yourself in advance about the exact requirements and procedures at your local traffic authority or with a specialized service provider. They can help facilitate the process and ensure that you correctly complete all the necessary steps.

When do I, as a foreigner, need to register my car in Spain?

As a foreigner, you need to register your car in Spain if you have residency there or if you plan to use the vehicle in Spain for a period of more than 6 months. The specific regulations may vary depending on your residency status, so it is advisable to inquire with the local traffic authorities or a specialized service provider to learn about the exact requirements.

However, in general, the following guidelines apply:

Residency in Spain: If you have residency in Spain, you must register your vehicle within 30 days after obtaining your residency, regardless of whether the vehicle was purchased in Spain or imported.

Long-term stay: If you intend to use your vehicle in Spain for a period of more than 6 months, you must also register it in Spain. This applies to both vehicles you already own and those you acquire or import while in Spain.

Vehicle registration typically requires various documents such as the vehicle registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación), the technical inspection card (Tarjeta de Inspección Técnica), and proof of car insurance. Additional documents and fees may apply, depending on the specific requirements of the local authorities.

It is essential to note that the exact regulations and procedures for vehicle registration in Spain may vary. Therefore, it is advisable to inquire in advance about the specific requirements with the local traffic authorities or a vehicle registration service provider to ensure a smooth and correct registration process.

What do I need to consider when importing a car from the UK or a third country to Spain?

When importing a car from the UK to Spain, or any other non-EU country, there are specific customs and import regulations to be mindful of. Here are some essential points regarding customs and vehicle documents:

Customs and Import Regulations:
  1. Brexit Regulations: Since the UK is no longer an EU member, special customs rules apply post-Brexit. Ensure that you comply with the current customs regulations for importing vehicles from non-EU countries to Spain.
  2. Import Taxes and Fees: Importing a vehicle from a non-EU country like the UK may incur import taxes and fees. Familiarize yourself with the applicable tax rates and fees to avoid unexpected costs.
Vehicle Documents:
  1. V5C Vehicle Logbook: The British V5C vehicle logbook is the main document confirming legal ownership of the vehicle in the UK. You must present the V5C when entering Spain.
  2. Purchase Agreement: Have a purchase agreement for the vehicle, confirming the sale and transfer of ownership.
  3. European Certificate of Conformity (COC): The COC certificate is an essential document confirming the vehicle’s compliance with EU technical standards. It can assist with the vehicle’s registration in Spain.
  4. Registration Documents: Carry all existing registration documents identifying the vehicle in the UK.

It is advisable to proactively inquire with the relevant authorities in Spain about the exact requirements and necessary documents to ensure a smooth import process and avoid potential issues. For complex cases or uncertainties, engaging a specialized service provider or customs agency can be beneficial in professionally supporting the import process.

Additional Requirements:

If you wish to import a car from a third country to Spain, there are several crucial points to consider. Here are some of them:
Technical Requirements: Before import, verify whether the vehicle complies with technical requirements in Spain. This includes aspects such as emission standards, safety regulations, and compatibility with Spanish road conditions. It may be necessary to make adjustments or modifications to meet Spanish regulations.

Vehicle Insurance: Ensure you have valid car insurance for the imported vehicle. In Spain, third-party liability insurance (seguro obligatorio) is legally mandatory. You can also opt for additional comprehensive insurance to protect your vehicle against damages or theft.

Homologation and ITV: In some cases, imported vehicles need to undergo homologation (type approval) to confirm compliance with Spanish regulations. Subsequently, a technical inspection (ITV) is required to assess the vehicle’s safety and condition. Ensure you complete these steps accordingly.

Thoroughly researching and, if necessary, seeking professional assistance before importing the vehicle is advisable. A specialized service provider or lawyer experienced in vehicle import matters can help with legal, administrative, and technical aspects, ensuring a smooth import process.

From when is a foreign driving license required to be exchanged in Spain?

According to current information, foreign driving licenses must be exchanged in Spain if a person has their residence in Spain and meets the following criteria:

EU/EFTA nationality: If you are a citizen of an EU or EFTA country (European Union/European Free Trade Association), you must exchange your foreign driving license in Spain if your main residence is in Spain and your driving license has expired or will expire within the next two years. European Union citizens can exchange their driving license in Spain if they have their usual residence in Spain. However, there is no explicit deadline for the exchange of the driving license as long as it is valid. Nevertheless, it is recommended to exchange the driving license when it expires or when you need to make changes to personal data (such as name or address).

Non-EU/EFTA nationality: If you are a citizen of a non-EU/EFTA country, you must exchange your foreign driving license in Spain if your main residence is in Spain and your driving license has expired or will expire within the next six months. Different regulations apply to citizens of countries outside the European Union regarding the driving license. In some cases, citizens of selected non-EU countries may exchange their foreign driving license in Spain, while in other cases, a driving test or other requirements may be required.

The exact exchange process and the required documents may vary depending on your nationality and specific regulations. In general, you will need to submit an application, present your foreign driving license, undergo medical tests if necessary, and pay an administrative fee. It may also be necessary to pass a theoretical and practical driving test, depending on the category of the driving license and the country of origin.

In Spain, citizens from EU countries and some countries outside the EU can exchange their foreign driving license. However, the regulations may vary, so it is important to obtain the most up-to-date information from Spanish authorities or an official source.

The obligation to exchange the foreign driving license in Spain depends on the duration of the stay in Spain:

If you have your usual residence in Spain and have a driving license from an EU country, you must usually exchange it as soon as it expires or if changes to personal data are required.

If you have your usual residence in Spain and have a driving license from a non-EU country, you must usually exchange it within six months after acquiring your residence in Spain.

It is important to exchange the driving license in a timely manner to continue driving legally in Spain. To exchange the driving license, certain documents and fees are usually required. The exact requirements may vary depending on the country and individual situation. Therefore, we recommend that you contact the local traffic authorities in Spain or an official entity to inquire about the specific exchange conditions to ensure that you carry out the exchange on time and in accordance with the applicable regulations.

If you have any further questions about our service, please contact our support team!

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