Everything You Need to Know About the Spanish Vehicle Inspection (ITV)

If you own a car in Spain, it's essential to be familiar with the ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos), the Spanish version of the technical inspection. This inspection is mandatory and ensures that vehicles meet the safety and environmental standards set by the government. Without a valid ITV, you are not allowed to drive on the road and risk receiving a hefty fine if you are caught driving without it.

Why is the ITV Important?

The ITV is more than just an administrative requirement. It guarantees the safety of both yourself and other road users. During the inspection, crucial parts of your vehicle are checked, such as:

• Brakes
• Lights and signals
• Tires
• Emissions and environmental friendliness

Additionally, the inspection ensures that your vehicle meets current environmental standards, reducing harmful emissions. A well-maintained vehicle is therefore safer and more environmentally friendly.

The ITV in Spain can be stricter than in other countries, particularly if you have imported a vehicle or added accessories such as a non-original tow bar, bull bar, tinted windows, or lowered suspension. These modifications may result in a failed inspection because Spanish regulations are stricter in this regard than in many other countries.

Who Needs to Undergo the ITV?

Anyone who owns a vehicle in Spain must have their car inspected periodically. The frequency of the ITV depends on the age of your vehicle:

• New cars must be inspected for the first time after 4 years.
• Cars between 4 and 10 years old must be inspected every 2 years.
• Cars older than 10 years must be inspected annually.

Even if you import a vehicle from abroad, an ITV inspection is mandatory before it can be driven on Spanish roads.

Where Can You Get Your Car Inspected in Costa Blanca South?

There are several authorized ITV stations in the Costa Blanca South region where you can have your car inspected. Here are a few locations:

• ITV Orihuela Costa – A popular location for expats, located near Playa Flamenca.
• ITV Torrevieja – Conveniently located just outside the city and easily accessible for residents of Torrevieja and surrounding areas.
• ITV San Pedro del Pinatar – Situated near the Murcia border, it serves residents of Pilar de la Horadada and San Javier.

How to Schedule an ITV Appointment?

Scheduling an ITV inspection is simple. You can book an appointment through the website of your local ITV station or by calling them. Keep in mind that some stations operate without appointments, but it’s advisable to reserve in advance to avoid waiting times.

Make sure to bring the following documents with you to the inspection:

• Vehicle registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación)
• Technical data sheet of the vehicle (Ficha Técnica)
• Driver’s license
• ID (e.g., passport or DNI)

What Happens if Your Car Fails the ITV?

If your vehicle fails the inspection, you will receive a list of defects that need to be corrected. You are given a limited amount of time to fix these issues and return for a re-inspection. Minor defects are often resolved immediately by the mechanic, but larger problems may take more time and incur additional costs.

Conclusion

Having your car inspected through the ITV is not only a legal requirement but also an important step to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. It ensures that vehicles are in good condition and comply with environmental standards, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment. By scheduling your appointment on time and maintaining your vehicle properly, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and continue to drive confidently on Spanish roads.