Frequently Asked Questions

Expert advice on buying, registering, and optimizing taxes for vehicles in Spain. Everything you need to know for a stress-free experience.

Can I buy a car in Spain if I am not a resident?

Yes, Spanish law does not restrict foreigners from owning property. To complete the transaction, a valid passport and a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) are sufficient. However, for legal registration and road tax, you will need a Spanish address (rental agreement or property title).

How much does car sourcing cost and what's included?

Our 'Turnkey Car Sourcing' service has a fixed fee of €895. This is not just 'searching links' but the work of at least two managers: one monitors the market and selects options, while the second conducts deep negotiations, verifies legal purity, and coordinates the entire deal. We invest dozens of hours to save you thousands of euros and prevent future problems.

What is better in 2026: a new or used car?

A new car offers a full warranty but loses up to 20% of its value the moment it leaves the dealership. A 3-5 year old car is the 'golden mean'—it has already passed the peak of depreciation but remains modern and reliable. Our goal is to find a car where the previous owner paid for the initial price drop, while you get a high-quality vehicle.

Dealer vs. Private Seller: what's the difference?

When buying from an official dealer, you are protected by law with at least 1 year of warranty on hidden defects. Private sellers might be cheaper, but you have no legal protection after the payment. We recommend verified dealers or B2B platforms where the car's condition is confirmed by independent expertise.

Why is an auction in Germany better than a dealer in Spain?

Closed B2B auctions provide independent inspection reports (TÜV/Dekra) that cannot be faked. This guarantees honest mileage and transparency. In Spain, many local dealers often hide accident histories or service gaps.

How is the registration tax (IEDMT) calculated?

In Spain, this tax is directly linked to CO2 emissions. Rates vary from 0% (for low-emission cars) up to 14.75% for powerful SUVs. However, if you are moving to Spain for residence and import your car within 60 days of getting residency, you may receive a 100% exemption under the 'Cambio de Residencia' rule. We calculate these amounts professionally before purchase.

How do you check the car for liens (Embargos) and debts?

We never take the seller's word for it. Before every deal, we request an extended 'Informe de Tráfico' directly from the DGT database. This document acts as an X-ray, showing ownership history, liens, tax debts, or any administrative blocks.

Do you help with the ITV inspection?

The ITV inspection for an imported car is a complex procedure. We don't just book an appointment; we provide full support. If necessary, our manager is personally present to communicate with the technicians and ensure that all data is correctly entered into the new Spanish technical card (Ficha Técnica).

In which regions of Spain do you provide services?

We offer Car Sourcing services for clients in any region of Spain—we find the best cars wherever they are. However, for Registration and administrative support, we focus on residents of the Costa Blanca (Alicante province) to ensure our personal presence at local offices.

Do you provide delivery if the car is bought in Germany?

Absolutely. We organize safe logistics via professional car carriers or individual drivers under a separate contract. The vehicle is fully insured during transit, and you receive photo reports at every stage of the journey.

Is the V16 beacon mandatory in 2026?

Yes. As of January 1, 2026, the use of emergency triangles on highways is prohibited and replaced by V16 beacons with geolocation. This device automatically sends your coordinates to the DGT 3.0 cloud in case of an accident.

Is insurance required at the moment of purchase?

Yes, insurance (Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil) must be active from the first minute of ownership. Driving or even parking an uninsured car can lead to fines up to €3000 and vehicle impoundment. We help you issue a policy on the day of the deal.

Why has insurance in Spain become more expensive in 2026 and how to save?

Average premiums increased by 12-25% in 2026 due to new taxes and inflation. We help select the best policies (Terceros Ampliado or Todo Riesgo) via expat-friendly brokers, often saving up to €300 per year compared to direct quotes from major banks that don't consider foreign driving history.

Is the V16 beacon mandatory across all of Spain?

Yes, as of Jan 1, 2026, triangles are prohibited on all high-speed roads. Your car must have a certified V16 beacon with geolocation that automatically sends coordinates to DGT 3.0. We ensure all cars we source meet these safety standards so you avoid fines of up to €200.

How to use the digital license in the miDGT app?

The digital version in the miDGT app is legally equivalent to the plastic card in 2026. This is especially convenient for new residents. We guide you through the registration process in the Cl@ve system so you have all vehicle docs and your license on your phone at all times.

What are ZBE zones and how to get an environmental sticker?

In 2026, all Spanish cities over 50,000 residents limit high-emission entry. To travel legally, you need a sticker (0, Eco, C, or B) from the post office (Correos). We verify access for your future car to avoid €200 fines for entering restricted zones without the proper environmental badge.

How does the new Plan Auto+ subsidy program work?

MOVES III is replaced by Plan Auto+. The main 2026 benefit is the discount (up to €7,000 with scrap) applied instantly at purchase at the dealership, rather than being paid a year later. We handle the eligibility check for you to ensure you get the maximum possible benefit without the usual bureaucracy.

Do I need to change my Ukrainian license to a Spanish one?

Under current EU rules for 2026, Ukrainian licenses remain valid in Spain for the entire duration of your temporary protection status (currently until March 2027). You are not required to change them, but you can voluntarily exchange them (Canje) without exams for categories A and B.

How long can I legally drive on Ukrainian plates in Spain?

The general rule is 6 months after obtaining residence. However, for those under temporary protection, rules are more flexible. To avoid issues with police and insurance, we recommend starting the legalization process if you plan to stay for more than half a year.

Are there tax benefits for Ukrainians when registering a car?

Yes, this is a major advantage. When registering via 'Cambio de Residencia', you are eligible for a 100% exemption from registration tax (IEDMT) and customs duties. This can save you 10% to 30% of the car's market value.

Still have questions?

If you didn't find the answer you were looking for, it's very easy to solve — contact us directly via the contact form for a free consultation.