If you are a UK resident with an English registered vehicle, your vehicle is permitted to remain in Spain all year without changing it to Spanish plates. However, some countries, including the UK, will not accept the Spanish ITV (equivalent of the UK MOT). This means that you will have to drive back to your home country for each technical inspection. If you decide to become a Spanish resident and want to keep your vehicle, the Spanish authorities will allow you six months after obtaining your Residencia to legally import it.

GET ADVICE
Depending on your situation, current country of residence and future plans, becoming a Spanish resident may or may not benefit you.

DRIVING
When driving a vehicle in Spain, it is essential to carry in the car 2 warning triangles, reflective jacket, first aid kit , spare set of bulbs, and the originals of all documents - passport, driving licence, insurance policy and receipt of payment, technical card, logbook, current tax receipt, car hire contract etc.

All cars over four years old are obliged to undergo an ITV (MOT) test and the current sticker should be clearly displayed on the windscreen, failure to comply with any of the above may result in a fine.

PETROL
Petrol is sold as Super (leaded), Sin Plomo 95 and 98 (lead-free) and Diesel. Most service stations are open from 07.00 to 23.00, although there are some that open 24 hours a day.

MOTORWAYS
These operate with tollbooths in this area and a ticket is collected at the beginning of your journey and the toll is paid at the end, some stretches are free. You can pay by using a credit or payment card that will be charged direct to your bank. AUMAR the company that runs the local motorway makes a discount for drivers who frequently pay by card instead of cash.