Lorraine Williamson
As of 19 February 2025, Spain has implemented mobile Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV) checks on its roads. These random inspections, conducted by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), are mandatory for all vehicles when required by traffic authorities.
This initiative aligns with EU Directive 2014/47/EU, aiming to bolster road safety and environmental compliance.
Focus on commercial vehicles
The primary targets of these mobile ITV inspections are buses and trucks. The objective is to ensure that all vehicles adhere to current safety and environmental regulations. According to AECA-ITV, the association representing nearly all ITV stations in Spain, approximately 30% of vehicles operate without a valid ITV certificate. Guillermo Magaz, general manager of AECA-ITV, emphasises the importance of mobile controls to assess the actual condition of vehicles on Spanish roads and to identify those failing to meet required standards, thereby posing risks to other road users.
Collaboration between ITV and Guardia Civil
Historically, traffic officers conducted visual inspections to identify vehicle deficiencies. With the introduction of mobile ITV units, Guardia Civil officers can now perform comprehensive on-the-spot technical inspections. These unannounced checks can occur on any road and at any time, ensuring that vehicles comply with safety and environmental standards.
Key inspection areas
Mobile ITV checks assess several critical components of a vehicle, including:
- Vehicle identification: Verifying registration and chassis numbers.
- Braking system: Ensuring functionality and efficiency.
- Steering mechanism: Checking for responsiveness and safety.
- Visibility: Inspecting windshields, wipers, and mirrors.
- Lighting and electrical systems: Confirming all lights and electrical components operate correctly.
- Wheels and tyres: Assessing tread depth and overall condition.
- Suspension and axles: Evaluating for wear and tear.
- Chassis integrity: Checking for structural issues or corrosion.
- Pollutant emissions: Measuring exhaust emissions to ensure environmental compliance.
Consequences of non-compliance
If a vehicle exhibits serious or very serious deficiencies during a roadside inspection, the owner must rectify these issues and present the vehicle to a fixed ITV station for verification. Operating a vehicle with an expired ITV certificate results in fines and mandates an immediate visit to an ITV station for the necessary technical inspection.
These mobile ITV checks are part of Spain’s broader strategy to enhance road safety and environmental protection, ensuring that all vehicles meet the required standards.
Also read: Some roadside checks have already been carried out during 2024