From October 1, 2024, the Historic Vehicle Regulations come into force, establishing an exemption from periodic technical inspection (ITV) for historic vehicles over 60 years old. This measure also includes historic mopeds, regardless of their age, although their owners can opt for voluntary inspection.
It is important to note that a vehicle's age alone is not enough to benefit from this exemption. According to the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), a historic vehicle must be at least 30 years old and meet the requirements to preserve its heritage, cultural, or technical interest. Simple age is insufficient; official classification as a historic vehicle is necessary.
By 2027, historic vehicles manufactured or first registered before 1967, provided they are officially recognized, will be able to forgo mandatory ITV. Models such as a Seat 600, a Citroën DS, or a Jaguar E-Type from that era will not be exempt solely due to their age but will require prior administrative classification.
Historic vehicles not yet reaching 60 years will continue to undergo inspections, but with reduced frequency: every 2 years between 30 and 40 years old; every 3 years between 40 and 45; and every 4 years for those over 45. Historic motorcycles will be inspected every four years, while historic mopeds are permanently exempt.
When a historic vehicle does require an ITV, the inspection may include authorized exceptions during the cataloging process, such as dynamometer or play tests, or the non-requirement of safety or lighting elements not originally fitted, aiming to preserve authenticity without compromising safety.
The regulations also facilitate the preservation of original parts, allowing replacement with equivalents if they do not alter the essential technical characteristics. The procedure for obtaining historic vehicle classification has been simplified, especially for vehicles already registered in Spain for over 30 years with a valid ITV, involving lower costs and fewer procedures.
This change exclusively affects a small portion of the vehicle fleet. The vast majority of vehicles, such as conventional passenger cars, will continue to be subject to the usual ITV schedules. The reform differentiates between daily-use vehicles and those with accredited historic value.
