8 things you should always keep in the car when driving in Spain

By law, there are certain important documents and safety items which drivers must carry in Spain

by Car Registrations Spain

In Spain, as with many other European countries, it is mandatory to carry certain paperwork and safety items in the car at all times. Whether you’re on holiday, making a work commute or just nipping to the shops, these documents can mean the difference between safe driving practices and a costly fine.

Without exception, according to Car Registrations Spain, every vehicle on Spanish roads must carry the following 8 things:

1. Driving licence

Purpose: Your driving licence is your identification behind the wheel and proves you are authorised to drive.

Details: The licence must be in date and correspond to the class of vehicle you are driving.

Additional info: Instead of carrying a physical licence, many drivers opt to use a digital version available through the MiDGT mobile app.

2. Permiso de circulación del vehículo

Purpose: This document certifies that the vehicle is registered and allowed to circulate on public roads.

Details: It includes information such as the car’s make, model and registration number.

Additional info: Just like the driving licence, this document can also be carried electronically on the app.

3. ITV sticker

Purpose: Just like the MOT in the UK, all cars of a certain age in Spain must pass a roadworthiness test known as the Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV).

Details: The ITV must be valid and up-to-date and always displayed clearly in the windshield.

Additional info: All vehicles over 4 years old must pass the ITV and it has to be renewed every 2 years for cars up to 10 years old, and annually thereafter.

4. Insurance

Purpose: Proves that the vehicle you are driving is covered by mandatory insurance.

Details: In Spain, motor insurance has to cover at least third-party liability.

5. Accident forms

Purpose: To report if your vehicle has been involved in an accident.

Details: This document is a standardised form used throughout Europe and intended to be filled out by the driver immediately following any kind of accident.

6. Emergency triangle

Purpose: To warn other vehicles that you have had an accident or broken down and are stopped on the road

Details: In Spain, cars are supposed to carry two triangles. Should you have to stop, the triangles should be placed 50 meters in front of and behind the vehicle.

Additional info: Since July 2021, drivers can use V16 light signals, which are placed on the roof of the car, instead of triangles. These lights will completely replace emergency triangles and become compulsory on January 1, 2026.

7. Reflective vest

Purpose: To ensure we are visible to other drivers in the case of an accident or break down.

Details: Reflective vests must be kept in the car, not the boot, and all passengers as well as the driver must wear one if they step outside the vehicle.

8. Spare tyre

Purpose: To replace a flat or otherwise damaged tyre.

Details: All vehicles must carry a jack and wheel brace, or a puncture repair kit in some newer models.

Additional recommended items

The following items aren’t mandatory but it’s highly advisable to carry them in your car:

First aid kit and fire extinguisher
Spare lights and bulbs

Failing to carry any of the mandatory documents or other compulsory items can lead not only to expensive fines, but can also jeopardise the safety of the driver and passengers. Drivers are strongly advised to regularly check that they have all the necessary items to avoid any problems on their travels.

Information courtesy of Car Registrations Spain. Car Registrations Spain S.L. is the leading vehicle registration service for pre-registered foreign vehicles in Spain. If you wish to register your foreign registered vehicle in Spain with Spanish licence plates, contact Car Registrations Spain using the contact details below: