Essential Guide to Road Tax (IVTM) in Spain: Requirements and Payments

Essential Guide to Road Tax (IVTM) in Spain: Requirements and Payments

By Michael Thornton

March 14, 2025 at 01:10 PM

Road tax in Spain, known as IVTM (Impuesto sobre Vehículos de Tracción Mecánica), is a mandatory annual tax for vehicle owners. This tax is managed by local municipalities and must be paid by anyone who owns a vehicle registered in Spain.

The amount you pay depends on your vehicle type and characteristics:

For Cars (based on taxable horsepower):

  • Less than 8 HP: Lower rate
  • 8-11.99 HP: Medium rate
  • 12-15.99 HP: Higher rate
  • 16-19.99 HP: Premium rate
  • 20+ HP: Maximum rate

For Motorcycles (based on engine size):

  • Up to 125cc
  • 125cc to 250cc
  • 250cc to 500cc
  • 500cc to 1,000cc
  • Above 1,000cc

Vehicles Exempt from IVTM:

  • Urban public transport vehicles with 9+ seats
  • Official state vehicles (police, civil guard)
  • Embassy and consular vehicles
  • Ambulances and health service vehicles
  • Mobility vehicles for disabled persons
  • Agricultural vehicles with proper licensing

Payment Methods:

  • In-person at local town hall or authorized banks
  • Direct debit from bank account
  • Online payment via credit/debit card or bank transfer
  • Phone banking through participating institutions

Important Considerations:

  • Payment is typically due in the first quarter of the year
  • Late payments incur penalties and interest
  • When moving to a new city, you must update your vehicle registration
  • Non-payment can result in vehicle impoundment and additional fines

Hand holds N26 debit card

Hand holds N26 debit card

Person filing tax documents at desk

Person filing tax documents at desk

Diverse group of people standing together

Diverse group of people standing together

Person filing tax documents at desk

Person filing tax documents at desk

Diverse group of people standing together

Diverse group of people standing together

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