Announcements
The Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV) is one of the most important procedures for any driver in Spain. Not only is it mandatory to circulate legally, but it also guarantees that the vehicle meets the minimum safety and emissions requirements.
An expired MOT can imply high fines, immobilization of the vehicle and problems in the event of an accident. Therefore, know when do you have to pass the ITV, how to consult it online and how to interpret the results is essential.
Fortunately, Spain has modernized the consultation systems, allowing any driver to check the status of their MOT in a few minutes from their mobile phone or computer.
In this complete guide you will find everything you need: where to consult the MOT, how to know if it is current, what the results mean, what documentation you need, what to do if you have had your inspection rejected and when you have to pass the next inspection.
Announcements
What exactly is MOT and why is it so important?
The ITV is a mandatory inspection that evaluates whether a vehicle is safe to circulate and whether it complies with the legal limits of polluting emissions. Its main objective is to reduce road risks and reduce the environmental impact.
Reasons why it is mandatory:
- Road safety: Detects serious failures in brakes, tires, steering, headlights and other essential elements.
- Environmental protection: Controls polluting emissions.
- Legal compliance: Driving with an expired MOT is a serious infraction.
- Purchase and sale of vehicles: A car without an MOT per day loses value and can hide important faults.
How often do you have to pass the ITV
The frequency depends on the type and age of the vehicle:
Private cars:
- Up to 4 years: exempt
- From 4 to 10 years: every 2 years
- More than 10 years: every 1 year
Motorcycles:
- Up to 4 years: exempt
- More than 4 years: every 2 years
Mopeds:
- 3 years or more: every 2 years
Industrial vehicles and vans:
- Higher frequency due to intensive use
Being clear about these deadlines is essential to avoid sanctions.
Announcements
How to check if your MOT is current
There are several ways to consult the ITV situation in Spain, both official and alternative. Below we explain each method in detail.
Method 1: Consult the ITV at the DGT (Electronic Headquarters)
The most reliable way is through the DGT Electronic Headquarters, where you can check the complete situation of the vehicle.
What do you need
- Digital certificate
- Electronic ID
- Cl@ve system
Once inside, select the option 2vehicle Report. The report includes:
Visible information:
- Date of the last ITV
- Expiration date
- Result (favorable/unfavorable/negative)
- Inspection history
- Recorded mileage
This method is completely official and free.
Method 2: Consult the ITV through a Reduced Report from the DGT
If you do not have a digital certificate, you can request a reduced report just by entering the registration. This report includes:
- Date of first registration
- Administrative situation
- ITV expiration date
It does not show the history, but it does show the essentials to know if you can circulate legally.
Method 3: Consult ITV using FIP Board
Applications like Fip plate they allow you to consult quickly and easily:
- Current ITV
- Last inspection date
- Date of the next ITV
- Basic history
- Possible incidents
This method is ideal for users without a digital certificate or for second-hand buyers who need quick verification.
Method 4: Consult ITV directly at the station where the inspection was passed
Many stations offer online consultation using:
- Registration
- Frame number
- ITV report code
It is useful for checking recent results or downloading lost reports.
Method 5: Look at the MOT sticker (Classic Method)
Although it is the least accurate method, the sticker on the windshield indicates the month when the ITV expires.
However, it does not show the exact day nor if there were subsequent inspections.
Interpretation of the ITV results
The ITV can offer three results:
1. Favorable
The vehicle has passed the inspection.
Delivered:
- Favorable report
- Windshield sticker
It means you can drive without restrictions.
2. Favorable with minor defects
They are defects that must be corrected, but they do not prevent circulation legally.
3. Unfavorable
The vehicle has serious defects.
Two consequences:
- You can't circulate except to go to the workshop.
- You must correct faults and return for re-inspection.
4. Negative
The vehicle is considered dangerous and it must be transported by crane.
What happens if you drive with an expired MOT
In Spain, circulating without ITV implies:
- Fine of 200 euros
- Possible vehicle immobilization
- In the event of an accident, the insurance may refuse coverage
- Impossible to make transfers, procedures or sales
Furthermore, if the MOT is unfavorable and you circulate without correcting the errors, you may receive a new sanction.
How to know if a second-hand vehicle has a valid MOT
Before buying a used car, you should check:
- ITV expiration date
- Inspection history
- Recorded kilometers
- Repeated or serious defects
- If you have sick leave or administrative incidents
Tools such as the FIP Board or DGT reports are essential to avoid fraud.
How to reserve the ITV online
Most stations allow you to book from their website:
- Enter registration.
- Select nearest station.
- Choose day and time.
- Pay online if you want.
Popular stations:
- TÜV Rheinland
- Applus+
- SGS
- Dekra
- Itevelesa Network
Documents necessary to pass the ITV
When you go to the inspection, bring:
- Circulation permit
- ITV card or technical sheet
- Mandatory insurance in force
At some stations it is automatically verified if the insurance is active.
Tips to approve the ITV the first time
- 1. Check tires
Wear, correct measurements, pressure.
- 2. Check lights
Short, long, flashing, brake, license plate.
- 3. Oil and liquid levels
Brakes, coolant, windshield wipers.
- 4. Brakes
Firm pedal, without vibrations.
- 5. Acoustic signals and belts
Both must work correctly.
- 6. Readable frame
Visible number and no corrosion.
Conclusion
Consulting the ITV is a quick, simple and fundamental process for any driver in Spain. Thanks to digital platforms such as the DGT and apps such as Placa FIP, anyone can know if their ITV is current, verify important dates and avoid fines or unnecessary risks. Additionally, for those who buy a second-hand car, checking the ITV is mandatory to avoid deception and ensure that the vehicle is in adequate condition.
Keeping the MOT up to date is not only a legal obligation: it is also a matter of safety and responsibility.
