Lorraine Williamson
What happens when the rules you thought you understood suddenly change? Motorists across Spain are discovering that the ITV system has entered a far stricter phase—one that leaves no room for delay, expired paperwork, or overlooked defects.
Spain’s updated ITV framework, now fully enforced nationwide, marks the biggest shift in the vehicle inspection system in years. The reforms—published in the BOE and enforced from 23 October —tighten safety thresholds, remove former grace periods, and raise expectations for modern vehicle technology.
A nationwide clampdown on expired inspections
For years, many drivers relied on a small loophole: if an inspection was already booked, police tended to overlook an expired ITV. That era is gone.
Under Spain’s new ITV rules, the moment the certificate expires, the vehicle cannot legally remain in circulation. Driving even a few hours past the deadline now carries a €200 fine. This is regardless of whether an appointment has been made.
The DGT argues that too many vehicles were circulating for months without a valid inspection, creating unnecessary risks on the roads. The new policy aims to end what authorities describe as a “culture of delay”.
Greater scrutiny of modern safety systems
The new standards also change what inspectors look for. The reforms respond to the rise of vehicles equipped with advanced safety technology, much of which was previously not checked in detail.
The updated criteria now focus heavily on:
airbags and ABS performance
stability and braking assistance
a full range of ADAS functions, increasingly present in newer models
Order PJC/780/2025 also introduces stricter limits on vehicle weight and dimensions—an issue relevant for large SUVs, modified vans, and vehicles used for work.
Inspectors report that tolerance for minor defects has narrowed. Issues that once passed with an advisory now require a return visit or immediate repair.
Pressure on drivers to plan ahead
Under the new system, drivers are expected to schedule inspections well before their expiry date. Without the former flexibility, garages have noticed a surge in early bookings as motorists try to avoid the risk of a fine or immobilisation.
The practical message is simple: last-minute ITV appointments are no longer a safe option.
Winners and losers in the sector
The shift affects the industry unevenly. Inspection stations and garages are likely to benefit from:
increased repair work
more frequent pre-ITV checks
higher volumes of early bookings
Motorists, on the other hand, face rising bills. Repairs that might once have been “advised but not required” are now essential to secure a valid certificate.
Authorities insist that, despite the short-term inconvenience, stricter inspections will mean safer roads, fewer accidents linked to mechanical failure, and better environmental compliance. The update also aligns Spain with EU-wide directives and emissions standards.
Price differences remain unresolved
While the inspection rules are now uniform across Spain, ITV fees still vary widely between autonomous communities. Regions set their own tariffs—meaning a driver in the Basque Country may pay double what someone in the Canary Islands pays for the same test.
That disparity is expected to remain, at least for now.
A shift that will reshape driver behaviour
The reform marks a cultural turning point. Spain’s more relaxed ITV practices, which many drivers had come to rely on, have been replaced by a system designed to prevent delays, enforce maintenance, and push vehicles to meet higher safety and environmental standards.
The message from authorities is clear: staying ahead of your ITV date is now essential—not optional.
Source: Euro Weekly News