If you’re an expat in Spain with a love for classic cars or motorcycles, there’s great news! The new Historic Vehicle Regulation (RVH) is now in effect, simplifying the process of registering your beloved vehicle as historic. This update replaces the previous rules from 1995, offering a modernized, streamlined approach that is both faster and more cost-effective.
Whether you own a vintage Spanish gem like a Seat 600 or imported a classic from abroad, this new regulation makes it easier to preserve your vehicle and enjoy it on the road.
More Historic Vehicles on Spanish Roads
Historically, registering a vehicle as historic in Spain was often a tedious and expensive process, with costs running into hundreds of euros. For many expats, especially those with motorcycles or less valuable classics, the process simply wasn’t worth the hassle.
The new regulation changes everything:
- You can now handle the process online.
- The cost has been drastically reduced to as little as €20, covering the administrative fee for changing the registration status to historic.
Spain currently has around 47,000 registered historic vehicles, but with these simplified procedures, experts estimate the number could rise to 120,000 in just a year.
Two Paths to Historic Status
The regulation offers two different procedures, depending on your vehicle’s specifics:
- Group A: Simplified Process
If your vehicle is:- At least 30 years old,
- Originally registered in Spain,
- Free from unauthorized modifications,
- And has a valid ITV (roadworthiness inspection),
You only need to:
- Submit a declaration of responsibility confirming the above.
- Pay the fee (€20) for the updated registration.
The entire process can be completed online, making it perfect for busy expats who prefer to avoid long queues and paperwork.
- Group B: Standard Process
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the Group A criteria—perhaps because it was imported or has been off the road—you’ll need:- An evaluation by a specialized historic vehicle technician to confirm it’s roadworthy.
- An ITV inspection to finalize the process.
This path may take a bit longer, but it ensures that even non-Spanish classics can join the ranks of officially recognized historic vehicles.
What About the ITV?
The new regulation includes changes to the ITV requirements for historic vehicles:
- Vehicles over 60 years old and historic mopeds are now exempt from mandatory ITV inspections.
- For others, the inspection intervals have been extended to every 2-4 years, depending on the vehicle’s age.
- Vehicles will only be assessed based on the safety features and mechanical standards that were mandatory when they were first registered—no need to retrofit modern features.
Limited Use, Greater Flexibility
Historic vehicles are now limited to 96 days of road use per year, primarily for leisure purposes like weekend drives, car shows, and rallies. Additionally, local governments are encouraged to allow historic vehicles to circulate in low-emission zones, recognizing their cultural and historical value.
A Practical Example: Your Seat 600
Let’s say you’ve bought a charming 1965 Seat 600 during your time in Spain. It’s a small, iconic car that holds a special place in Spanish history. Under the new regulation, registering it as historic is now easier and cheaper than ever:
The Old Process
Previously, you’d need to spend upwards of €300 on evaluations and paperwork. It could take weeks—or even months—to navigate the bureaucracy.
The New Process
With the simplified Group A process, if your Seat 600:
- Is at least 30 years old,
- Was registered in Spain,
- Has a valid ITV, and
- Hasn’t been modified,
All you’ll need to do is file a declaration online and pay €20 for the updated registration. That’s it—your Seat 600 will officially be a historic vehicle.
Why Register It as Historic?
- Save on Maintenance Costs: Vehicles over 60 years old are exempt from ITV. For others, inspections are less frequent.
- Preserve Its Originality: No need to add modern safety features that detract from its vintage charm.
- Cultural Recognition: Your Seat 600 will be recognized as part of Spain’s automotive heritage.
And, of course, you’ll still be able to enjoy it on sunny weekends or during classic car events, while ensuring it remains a treasured piece of history for future generations.
Protect Your Historic Vehicle with C1 Broker
As an expat, your classic car or motorcycle isn’t just a means of transport—it’s a part of your story in Spain. At C1 Broker, we understand this, which is why we offer specialized insurance policies for historic vehicles. Our coverage is tailored to protect your prized possession, whether you’re taking it for a weekend drive or showcasing it at a vintage car rally. Ask for your insurance quotation now!
The new Historic Vehicle Regulation is a game-changer for classic car enthusiasts in Spain. Whether you own a vintage Spanish icon or an international classic, now is the perfect time to register it as historic and hit the road with peace of mind.