How to import a vehicle from Germany to Spain step by step

Why import a car from Germany?

Germany offers a very well-maintained used car market, with premium equipment and competitive prices. However, buying the car there is only half the work; the other half consists of transporting it and legalizing its registration in Spain, a process that requires complying with very specific technical and tax procedures.

Phase 1: The purchase and the transfer to Spain

At the time of buying the car in Germany, you must make sure to obtain:

• The purchase invoice with VAT itemized (if you buy from a dealer) or the sales contract (if it is from a private seller).
• The documentation of the original German vehicle: the ** Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I ** (technical sheet) and the ** Teil II ** (driving license).
• The European Certificate of Conformity (CoC), a fundamental document that certifies that the car complies with EU approvals.

To bring the car driving, you must hire **temporary German export plates** (red band, with temporary insurance included). If you bring it by vehicle carrier, you will not need these temporary plates.

Phase 2: The import ITV inspection in Spain

Once in Spain, the car must pass a special ITV inspection for imported vehicles. You will need to present the CoC or, failing that, hire an engineer to prepare a **Reduced Technical Sheet**. The ITV station will check the car's emissions, measurements, and safety and will issue the new Spanish ITV cards.

Phase 3: Tax Payment and Final Registration

You must carry out the following tax procedures within 30 days:

1. Special Registration Tax (Form 576): Before the AEAT. The cost depends on the approved CO2 emissions of the car. Electric and plug-in hybrid cars with low emissions are exempt (0%).
2. Property Transfer Tax (ITP): Only if the car was bought from a private individual in Germany (not subject to VAT).
3. Municipal Circulation Tax (IVTM): The proportional part of the year is paid at the town hall of your residence.

Finally, we present the complete file electronically at the DGT paying the registration fees, we obtain the plate number and we print the Spanish physical plates.