The costs of transferring a vehicle in Spain
Carrying out the transfer or name change of a car involves paying three different concepts: the mandatory fees of the DGT, the Property Transfer Tax (ITP), and, optionally but recommended, the professional fees of the management office that carries out the digital processing.
1. The Rates of the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT)
It is a fixed price established by the Ministry of the Interior that is updated annually in the General State Budgets:
- Rate for general motor vehicles (cars, vans, trucks): Rate 1.5, with a fixed cost of €55.70 (year 2026).
- Rate for mopeds: Rate 1.2, with a reduced cost of €27.85.
2. The Property Transfer Tax (ITP)
This is the main expense in the transfer of a used car between individuals. It is a regional tax, so the cost varies drastically depending on the Autonomous Community where the buyer of the vehicle resides. The tax rate ranges **between 4% and 8%** of the value of the car.
To calculate the taxable base on which the percentage is applied, the Tax Agency uses **official vehicle valuation tables** published in the BOE each year. These tables depreciate the value of the car according to the years elapsed since its first registration:
- Up to 1 year old: 100% of its tax value.
- From 1 to 2 years: 84%.
- From 5 to 6 years: 39%.
- More than 12 years: 10% (some CCAA apply very low fixed rates for cars more than 10 years old).
3. Administrative Management Fees
Although an individual can process the transfer on their own by making an appointment at the DGT (which often entails delays and travel), using a specialized management service adds convenience and legal security. Average fees range between €60 and €120, including the instant issuance of the Professional Circulation Receipt that allows the buyer to use the vehicle immediately while Traffic issues the definitive permit.
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