UK Cars in Spain: Embassy Renews Warning for 2025

If you’re still driving a UK-registered car in Spain, 2025 could be the year your luck runs out. With tougher enforcement from regional police and a renewed warning from the British Embassy, expats who haven’t switched their plates now face real legal and financial risks.

Why the 2025 Warning Matters

While post-Brexit grace periods for UK vehicles in Spain ended years ago, many foreign residents and second-home owners have continued using British-plated cars. The British Embassy in Madrid has reiterated that this practice is no longer safe — even if your car is taxed, MOT’d, and insured in the UK.

Spanish authorities now view these vehicles as non-compliant if they remain in the country beyond six months. In reality, most long-term UK vehicles are being driven illegally — and the consequences in 2025 are growing harsher.

The Legal Risks of Keeping a UK-Plated Vehicle in Spain

If you live in Spain for more than 183 days a year, your vehicle is considered “resident” and must be registered with Spanish plates. Failure to do so can lead to:

• Fines of €500–€1,000 or more
• Vehicle impoundment by the Guardia Civil
• Insurance refusal in the event of an accident
• Failed ITV inspections for non-compliance

Police forces are also using automatic plate recognition to identify foreign cars that overstay.

Related: The Dangers Of Driving A UK Car In Spain

How to Legalise Your UK Vehicle in Spain

If you plan to keep your UK car, it must be imported, re-registered, and fitted with Spanish plates. This includes passing a Spanish ITV (MOT equivalent), paying import taxes, and changing headlights or speedometers in some cases.

For a full breakdown, see our step-by-step guide: Guide To Importing A Car Or Other Vehicle Into Spain

Do You Still Need an ITV If the Car Is British?

Yes. Any car permanently located in Spain — regardless of registration — must meet Spanish ITV safety and emissions standards. A UK MOT is not valid in Spain.

Read more: Can I Get An ITV (MOT) For My British Car In Spain?

What If You Want to Deregister and Scrap the Vehicle?

If you're leaving Spain or no longer want the vehicle, deregistration is essential to avoid fines or backdated taxes. You can do this officially through Spain’s traffic authority (DGT) or via an authorised scrapping centre.

More info here: How To Deregister a Vehicle in Spain (2025 Guide)

Bottom Line for 2025

UK cars in Spain are now firmly on the radar. Whether you're a full-time resident or a regular visitor, driving a British-plated car could land you in hot water. Don't wait for a fine — get legal, or get off the road.

Need health insurance in Spain that protects you in traffic accidents? The Sanitas Top Quantum Plan includes road accident cover and is ideal for expats who drive in Spain.