Can I drive without a valid roadworthiness test (ITV)?
No. The roadworthiness test (ITV) is mandatory. For cars, the first ITV is at 4 years from registration, then every 2 years up to 10, and after that yearly (motorbikes and other vehicles have their own schedules). Driving with an expired ITV is a serious offence fined EUR 200. If the test was unfavourable (you had to fix defects) or failed and you still drive, the fine can reach EUR 500 and the vehicle can be immobilised. Driving without ITV can also affect your insurance cover in a crash.
📋 The rules
- ITV mandatory to drive
- Cars: first at 4 years, then every 2 years up to 10
- After 10 years: yearly ITV
- Expired ITV: serious offence, EUR 200
- Unfavourable/failed ITV and driving: up to EUR 500 and immobilisation
🔓 Exceptions
- Driving to the garage or ITV station with an appointment: allowed even if expired
- Classic or historic vehicles: specific frequency
- Motorbikes and other vehicles: their own schedules
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Driving with an expired ITV is a serious offence: a EUR 200 fine. Doing so with an unfavourable or failed ITV can bring up to EUR 500 and immobilisation until fixed. The fine doesn't cost points, but a vehicle without a valid ITV can cause problems with insurance in a claim. Pass the test before it expires and fix any detected defects in time.
📎 Official sources
- DGT · Vehicle roadworthiness test →
- BOE · General Vehicle Regulation →
- Administración · Mandatory ITV →
❓ Frequently asked
How often must you pass the ITV?
For cars, the first at 4 years from registration, then every 2 years up to 10, and yearly after that. Motorbikes and other vehicles have their own schedules. Note the expiry date so you don't miss it.
What's the fine for driving without ITV?
Driving with an expired ITV is a serious offence fined EUR 200. If the test was unfavourable or failed and you still drive, the fine can reach EUR 500 and the vehicle can be immobilised.
Can I go to the garage with an expired ITV?
Yes, you can drive to the garage or ITV station to fix defects or take the test, usually with an appointment. Outside that justified trip, driving with an expired ITV is sanctioned.
Does the ITV fine cost points?
No. The penalty for driving without a valid ITV doesn't cost licence points, but it's a financial fine. Also, a vehicle without a valid ITV can cause problems with insurance cover in a crash.
What if the ITV is unfavourable?
You must fix the defects within the stated period and retake the test. Meanwhile, you can only drive to the garage or ITV station. If it's failed, the vehicle can't be driven except for those trips.
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