How to Transfer Car Ownership in Spain
Buying or selling a car in Spain is not just about handing over the keys and money. Unlike in some other countries, car ownership in Spain is closely controlled by the traffic authority, known as the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). For this reason, transferring car ownership is a formal process that must be completed correctly to avoid future problems. Whether you are an expat buying a second-hand car or selling your old vehicle, knowing the steps is very important. Discover more about NRA Number Spain by clicking here (https://simpleenglishadvice.co....m/a-guide-to-spains-
The first thing to understand is that the seller and the buyer both share responsibility for the transfer. The seller must make sure the vehicle is free from debts, such as unpaid road tax, traffic fines, or loans attached to the car. If these exist, the transfer cannot take place until the debts are cleared. The buyer, on the other hand, must confirm that the paperwork is complete before making payment. This helps avoid complications later.
The documents needed are quite straightforward. The seller must provide the car’s registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación), the ITV inspection card showing that the car has passed the technical roadworthiness test, and proof that the yearly road tax (Impuesto de Circulación) has been paid. The buyer needs to provide a valid ID or passport and proof of address. If the buyer is a foreigner, having an NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is essential, as no official transaction in Spain can be done without it.
Once both parties agree, the actual transfer is done at the DGT office. An appointment must be booked in advance, and both the buyer and seller, or their representatives, may need to attend. There is also a transfer fee, which varies slightly depending on the type and size of the vehicle. In many cases, people prefer to use a gestor, which is a professional administrative agent in Spain. A gestor can handle the paperwork quickly and ensure that everything is done correctly.
The most important point for the seller is to notify the DGT as soon as the car is sold. If this is not done, the car remains legally under the seller’s name. This can cause problems if the new owner commits traffic violations, does not pay road tax, or is involved in an accident. The seller would still appear as the legal owner and could be held responsible. To avoid this, always request proof from the DGT that the ownership has been changed.
For the buyer, completing the transfer ensures that the car is officially theirs and that they can get proper insurance. Driving without completing the ownership change is risky, as insurance companies may refuse to cover an accident if the vehicle is not legally in the driver’s name.
In conclusion, transferring car ownership in Spain is a structured but manageable process. The key is preparation: collect the correct documents, clear any debts, and make sure both parties register the change at the DGT. For expats and foreigners, professional support services like Simple English Advice can save time and prevent mistakes, giving peace of mind during what could otherwise be a stressful process.
