Summer getaway checks
The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) expects more than 104 million journeys to be made during July and August. These are dates when many vehicles take to the road without checking the essential components of the car or verifying that they have all the obligatory paperwork in order. This summer, traffic officers are focusing on vehicles, and having a valid ITV (technical inspection certificate) is a mandatory requirement for most cars. Failing to comply with this obligation can result in severe financial penalties, as well as endangering the safety of other road users.
Which vehicles are affected in 2026?
Cars and motorcycles registered in 2022 must undergo their first ITV inspection in 2026, having reached four years of age as stipulated by regulations. This year, the registration plates affected fall between the series LVV and MDF. Vehicles with these registrations must pass the technical inspection or face serious financial sanctions and, in the most extreme cases, the immobilisation of the vehicle.
The three essential documents
According to the Traffic Law, drivers must carry three mandatory documents in the vehicle at all times and must be able to produce them if requested by an officer. These are:
– Vehicle registration certificate (permiso de circulación)
– Driving licence
– ITV card
Although certain vehicles may be exempt from taking the ITV due to their characteristics or age, most cars and motorcycles must undergo the inspection within the established deadlines in order to circulate legally.
The V-19 badge and where to place it
Once the test has been passed, the vehicle receives the V-19 badge, the well-known ITV sticker, which certifies that the inspection has been favourable. This adhesive must be placed on the top right-hand side of the windscreen, in a visible area to make checking easier for officers. Not displaying the badge when required is considered a minor offence and can result in a fine of 100 euros.
Fines for driving with an expired or unfavourable ITV
Driving with an expired ITV carries a penalty of 200 euros, even if the driver has already booked an appointment to take the test. The situation is more serious if the vehicle is being driven with an unfavourable ITV, as the fine then rises to 500 euros and can lead to the vehicle being immobilised, being considered a very serious offence due to the risk it poses to road safety.
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