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Import paperwork, step by step

This is the order of the paperwork to register in Spain a used car bought in another EU country.

1COCEuropean certificate of conformity. The brand issues it if the car doesn’t have one.
2Import ITVThey inspect the car and give you the Spanish technical sheet.
3TaxesRegistration tax (form 576 or 06) and VAT only if it’s “new” (form 309).
4TráficoRegistration with the DGT: you get a Spanish number plate.
5Plates and insuranceYou fit the plates, pay road tax and insure the car.

1. Spanish technical sheet (import ITV)

You take the car to the ITV with the foreign registration certificate, the COC and the contract if it isn’t in your name. They inspect, weigh and measure it and give you the ITV card (technical sheet). Without a COC you need an individual approval, which is more expensive and slower.

2. Taxes

Registration tax (form 576)Paid once, when the car is first registered in Spain. Rate by WLTP CO₂: up to 120 g/km 0%, 121 to 159: 4.75%, 160 to 199: 9.75%, 200 or more: 14.75%. If you’re exempt (for example, when moving your residence), form 06 is used.
Tax valueFor a used car, the tax is calculated on the average price of that model in the tax office tables multiplied by a percentage for age (for example, 56% at 3-4 years, 39% at 5-6 years).
VAT (form 309)Only if the car is “new” for VAT: under 6 months since its first registration or 6,000 km or less. Then you pay 21% in Spain. A genuinely used car bought from a private seller pays no VAT in Spain.
ITP (form 620)If you buy from a private seller abroad, some sources and regions require it and others don’t. Before registering, ask your region’s tax office or an agency. As a professional dealer you may be exempt.

3. Registering with Tráfico (DGT)

You book an appointment at Tráfico or an agency does it. You need:

  • Registration application and fee (about €98 in 2026).
  • Your DNI or NIE.
  • Original foreign registration certificate (in Germany, Teil I and Teil II).
  • Sales contract or invoice (translated if needed).
  • ITV card (technical sheet).
  • Proof of registration tax (576 or 06) and, if applicable, VAT (309) or ITP (620).
  • Proof of road tax (IVTM) from your town hall.

You get the registration certificate with the new number. With it you order the plates at an authorised shop and take out insurance before driving.

Approximate paperwork costs (excluding registration tax):
COC: €100-300 · Import ITV and technical sheet: €50-300
Tráfico fee: ~€98 · Plates: €20-40 · Agency: €150-400
Road tax: depends on the town hall and the power
The first time, do it with an agency and ask them to explain each step. The second time you’ll be able to do much of it yourself and save their fee.