Understanding the car ownership transfer process in Spain
Looking to buy or sell a car in Spain? Then it’s important to understand the car ownership transfer process so you can complete the transaction legally and smoothly. In Spain, the transfer of ownership of a car is commonly referred to as “Cambio de nombre” which means “change of name” in English.
The process to transfer the ownership of a vehicle in Spain can be a little complicated for non-Spanish speakers. Here, we have outlined some of the most important steps you need to follow:
Gather the Required Documents
First things first, you need to have all the required documents. This includes the vehicle registration document, the seller’s ID card, the buyer’s ID card, the transfer application form, and the official tax form (modelo 620) that proves the transfer tax has been paid. Make sure all the information on the forms is correct and matches the information on the registration certificate.
Pay the Transfer Tax
The transfer tax is a percentage of the car’s value set by each Spanish region. In general, the tax is around 4-8% of the purchase price, and it should be paid at a bank prior to the transfer of ownership.
Visit a Traffic Department
You must visit a Traffic Department (Jefatura de Tráfico) with all the required documents and the receipt of the transfer tax. Here, you will fill out the transfer application form and submit it along with the other documents. You will also need to pay a fee for the process to be completed.
Wait for Confirmation
After submitting all the documents, you should receive a confirmation of the transfer process, typically in the form of a temporary registration permit. The new registration certificate should arrive at your address a few weeks later.
Transferring ownership of a car in Spain can be a bit of a headache, but by following the above steps, you’ll be able to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Remember to double-check all the details and take your time to avoid any complications or delays. Good luck!
Gather all necessary documents to transfer ownership
To successfully transfer the ownership of a car in Spain, there are a few key documents that you will need to have in your possession. First and foremost, you will need the original certificate of ownership, otherwise known as the ‘Permiso de Circulación.’ This document will include information about the vehicle’s make, model, and registration details, as well as the details of the current owner.
In addition to the Permiso de Circulación, you will also need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or Spanish identity card, to prove that you are legally authorized to assume ownership of the vehicle. Additionally, you will need to provide proof of payment of any applicable taxes, such as the transfer tax, or ‘Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales.’
If the car you are purchasing is less than four years old, you will also need to obtain a valid roadworthiness certificate, known as the ‘ITV.’ This certificate verifies that the car has passed an inspection and is safe to operate on Spanish roads.
Finally, it is important to note that if you are not a resident of Spain, you will also need to provide a valid NIE number, or ‘Número de Identificación de Extranjero.’ This is a personal identification number that is issued to non-Spanish residents and is required for any type of legal transaction in Spain, including the transfer of car ownership.
Visit a DGT office to initiate the process
If you are looking to change ownership of a car in Spain, the first step is to visit a DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) office in person. This process cannot be initiated online and must be done in person by one of the parties involved in the ownership transfer.
Some documents that you will need to bring with you include the registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación) of the vehicle, the technical inspection report (ITV), and identification documents of both the buyer and seller. In addition, it is recommended that you bring a photocopy of each of these documents, just in case there are any issues or complications during the process.
You should also be prepared to pay any necessary taxes or fees associated with the ownership transfer. These costs will vary depending on the region and the value of the car, so it’s best to do some research beforehand to get a rough estimate of how much you can expect to pay. It’s important to note that these fees must be paid directly to the DGT office, and not to any intermediaries or third-party companies.
Pay the transfer fee and taxes
Changing the ownership of a car is an important process when buying or selling a vehicle in Spain. It is required by law that the new owner completes the transfer as soon as possible to update the registry.
One of the most essential steps in this process is paying the transfer fee and taxes. The transfer fee must be paid at the local traffic department or Provincial Traffic Headquarters (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico). The fee is usually calculated based on the vehicle’s market value, considering its age, make and model, and its technical characteristics.
In addition to the transfer fee, the buyer must also pay the corresponding taxes, which vary depending on the region and the specific circumstances of the sale. For example, in some regions, the sales tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales) is based on a percentage of the car’s value, while in others it has a fixed rate. In some cases, exemptions may apply, such as for purchases made by close family members.
To make it easier to calculate the fees and taxes, it is recommended to use an online calculator or to consult with a trusted professional. It is also important to keep in mind that in some cases, the seller may agree to bear some or all of the transfer fees and taxes, so it is advisable to negotiate this aspect beforehand.
Once the transfer fee and taxes have been paid, the buyer must present the corresponding receipts and other necessary documents, such as proof of insurance and technical inspection, to the traffic department. The department will then update the vehicle’s registration and issue new license plates for the new owner.
By paying the transfer fee and taxes, the new owner can legally enjoy their new car and avoid any complications or fines for failing to complete the transfer process within the required timeframe.
Obtain the new vehicle ownership documents
Changing ownership of a car in Spain can be a complicated process but with the right guidance, it can be done without much hassle. The first step is obtaining the necessary vehicle ownership documents from the relevant authorities.
To obtain the new vehicle ownership documents, the buyer and seller must submit a completed authorization form to the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), which is in charge of vehicle registration in Spain. This form must be signed and dated by both parties and include information such as the vehicle identification number, make and model of the car, and the date and location of the sale.
In addition to the authorization form, both the buyer and seller must provide original identification documents, such as passports or national identity cards, as well as proof of payment of the transfer tax. The transfer tax is a tax on the transfer of ownership of a vehicle and is calculated based on the net value of the car.
Once all the necessary documents are submitted, the DGT will issue new vehicle ownership documents in the name of the buyer. The new owner will receive the registration certificate, technical inspection report, and proof of payment of the transfer tax.
It is important to note that the transfer of ownership must be completed within 15 days of the sale of the vehicle. Failure to do so could result in a fine. Additionally, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional to ensure that all the necessary documents are submitted correctly and in a timely manner.
Register the new vehicle ownership with the local Traffic Department
If you have recently bought a car in Spain or have inherited one, it is important to register the new ownership with the local Traffic Department. This process ensures that the updated information is reflected in the vehicle registry, and the new owner is held responsible for any traffic violations or accidents that may occur.
Firstly, you will need to gather all the necessary documents required for registration. This includes the original car registration document, a valid form of identification, proof of purchase or ownership transfer, and an up-to-date insurance policy.
Once you have all the documents, the next step is to make an appointment with the local Traffic Department. You can do this through their online platform or by visiting their office in person. It is important to note that some regions may require a specific appointment request form, so make sure to double-check the requirements for your area.
During the appointment, the Traffic Department will review all the documents and assess any fees that may be due. These fees include the registration tax, which varies depending on the value of the vehicle, and the transfer tax if it applies.
Once the fees are paid, the new owner will be issued a new registration certificate, and the previous owner’s certificate will be invalidated. This certificate should be kept in the car at all times as proof of ownership.
In conclusion, changing ownership of a car in Spain is a process that can be completed relatively quickly and easily by following the correct steps. It is important to ensure that all documents are in order and that any fees are paid promptly to avoid any potential legal issues in the future.
Consider hiring a gestor for assistance in the process
Changing the ownership of a car in Spain can be a complicated and time-consuming process, especially if you are not familiar with the local laws and regulations. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you consider hiring a gestor to assist you in the process. A gestor is a professional who specializes in helping people with administrative tasks like this.
Hiring a gestor can save you a lot of time and stress, as they know exactly what paperwork you need to fill out, what documents you need to provide, and what fees you need to pay. They can also help you navigate any language barriers that may arise during the process, ensuring that everything is done correctly and efficiently.
When choosing a gestor, make sure to do your research and find a reputable professional with experience in the field. Ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have gone through the same process, and check reviews online to see what others have to say.
While hiring a gestor may cost you some money, the peace of mind that comes with knowing that everything has been taken care of properly is priceless.
FAQs about changing car ownership in Spain
Changing the ownership of a car in Spain can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the country or unfamiliar with local laws and regulations. Here are some frequently asked questions about changing car ownership in Spain that will help you navigate the process with ease:
What documents do I need to change the ownership of my car in Spain?
To transfer ownership of a car in Spain, you will need the original vehicle registration certificate (Permiso de Circulación), a valid identification document (passport or NIE number), a valid roadworthiness certificate (ITV), proof of payment of vehicle tax (Impuesto de Circulación), and proof of sale or transfer of ownership (contract of sale, receipt or deed).
Do I need to pay any taxes when changing the ownership of my car in Spain?
Yes, you will need to pay the vehicle transfer tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales or ITP) when transferring ownership of a car in Spain. The ITP varies depending on the region, the age and value of the car, and the relationship between buyer and seller. It is usually between 4% and 8% of the sale price of the car.
Can I change the ownership of my car in Spain without going to the Traffic Department (Jefatura de Tráfico)?
No, you cannot transfer ownership of a car in Spain without going to the Traffic Department in person or through a representative. You will need to make an appointment online or by phone, and provide all the necessary documents and information.
How long does it take to change the ownership of a car in Spain?
The process of changing the ownership of a car in Spain can take between one and two weeks, depending on various factors such as the availability of appointments, the completeness and accuracy of the documentation, and the workload of the Traffic Department.
What happens if I don’t change the ownership of my car in Spain?
If you don’t transfer ownership of your car in Spain within 30 days of purchase or acquisition, you may be fined by the Traffic Department and face legal consequences such as liability for traffic fines, accidents or other incidents.
By being aware of these FAQs and understanding the steps needed to transfer ownership of your vehicle, you can avoid any extra stress and successfully navigate the process of changing the ownership of a car in Spain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, transferring ownership of a car in Spain is a necessary process that should be done as soon as possible to avoid any legal complications or fines. It can be a bit of a headache, especially for non-Spanish speakers, but by following the steps outlined in this blog post, such as gathering all necessary documents, paying the transfer tax, visiting a Traffic Department, and obtaining the new ownership documents, the process can be completed relatively quickly and efficiently. Additionally, hiring a gestor can be a worthwhile investment to ensure that everything is done correctly and in a timely manner. Keep in mind that failure to transfer the ownership of your car within 15 days of purchase may result in a fine, so it is important to act quickly and responsibly.
