ITV Inspection in Spain: Complete Guide

The ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos) is Spain's mandatory vehicle safety inspection. This guide explains when you need it, what's tested, and how to pass.

What is ITV?

The ITV inspection is:

• Mandatory safety and emissions test for all vehicles
• Similar to MOT (UK), TÜV (Germany), or state inspection (US)
• Ensures vehicle is roadworthy and meets safety standards
• Required to keep vehicle legally registered
• Driving without valid ITV: €200 fine

When Do You Need ITV?

ITV schedule for cars:

• First ITV: 4 years after first registration
• Years 4-10: Every 2 years
• Over 10 years old: Every year

ITV schedule for motorcycles:

• First ITV: 4 years after registration
• Years 4-10: Every 2 years
• Over 10 years: Every year

Other vehicles:

• Vans/trucks: More frequent (annually or every 6 months)
• Taxis: Every year
• Buses: Every 6 months

Check your vehicle registration document for exact ITV due date.

What's Checked During ITV

Main inspection points:

• Brakes:
  • Brake efficiency
  • Brake balance
  • Handbrake function
• Lights:
  • Headlights (alignment and brightness)
  • Indicators, brake lights, reverse lights
  • Number plate lights
• Suspension:
  • Shock absorbers
  • Springs
  • Ball joints
• Steering:
  • Play in steering wheel
  • Power steering function
• Tires:
  • Tread depth (minimum 1.6mm)
  • Tire condition (no cuts or bulges)
  • Correct size and type
• Emissions:
  • Exhaust emissions (CO, HC, NOx)
  • Smoke opacity (diesel)
• Body and chassis:
  • Rust and corrosion
  • Structural damage
  • Door and bonnet function
• Safety equipment:
  • Seatbelts
  • Airbags (warning light check)
  • Horn
  • Windscreen wipers

How to Book ITV

Booking your ITV inspection:

1. Find ITV station:
   • Search online for nearest station
   • Main providers: ITV, ITEVELESA, APPLUS+
2. Book appointment:
   • Online via station website
   • By phone
   • Walk-in (may have to wait)
3. Prepare vehicle:
   • Check all lights work
   • Check tire pressure and tread
   • Top up fluids
   • Clean vehicle (especially number plates)
4. Bring documents:
   • Vehicle registration (Permiso de Circulación)
   • Technical sheet (Ficha Técnica)
   • Previous ITV certificate
   • Your ID/NIE
5. Attend appointment:
   • Arrive 10 minutes early
   • Inspection takes 30-45 minutes
   • You can watch the inspection

ITV Costs

ITV inspection fees (vary by region and vehicle):

• Standard car: €40-60
• Motorcycle: €30-40
• Van/truck: €50-80
• Re-inspection (if you fail): €20-30

Prices are regulated and similar across stations in each region.

What If You Fail?

ITV results:

• FAVORABLE (Pass):
  • Vehicle passed all tests
  • Receive ITV certificate
  • Valid until next ITV due date
• DESFAVORABLE (Fail):
  • Serious defects found
  • Cannot drive vehicle legally
  • Must repair and re-test within 2 months
• NEGATIVA (Rejected):
  • Very serious defects
  • Vehicle immobilized immediately
  • Must be towed for repairs

If you fail:

1. Review defects list (they'll explain what failed)
2. Get repairs done at garage
3. Book re-inspection within 2 months
4. Only failed items are re-tested (cheaper)
5. If you pass re-test, receive full ITV certificate

Common reasons for failure:

• Worn brake pads or discs
• Faulty lights or indicators
• Worn tires (under 1.6mm tread)
• Excessive emissions
• Worn suspension components
• Cracked windscreen in driver's view