In 2025, more and more drivers in Spain are choosing to temporarily suspend the registration of their vehicles. This measure allows you to officially take your car off the road for a certain period if you don’t plan to use it. It’s relevant, for example, for long trips abroad, during repairs, or in times of financial difficulty.
Applying for a temporary suspension of registration means the vehicle is removed from the database of the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). After this procedure, the car loses its right to be on public roads. If this rule is violated, the owner faces a fine.
There are two ways to deregister a vehicle: permanent and temporary. The first is used when the car is being scrapped or is no longer suitable for use. The second applies if the owner plans to put the car back on the road after a while. During the temporary suspension, you do not need to pay road tax or insurance.
To start the process, you need to prepare a set of documents: your ID, the vehicle’s technical passport, and the registration certificate. Next, book an appointment at a DGT office via the official website or in person. On site, you’ll need to pay a government fee, which in 2025 is set at €8.67. After submitting your application and having your documents checked, you will receive confirmation of the temporary suspension of your registration.
If, after some time, you need to use the vehicle again, you’ll have to follow the reinstatement procedure. This means making sure the car meets all technical requirements and has a valid inspection (ITV). Then, you submit the necessary documents, including proof of the previous suspension, and pay the same fee. Once all formalities are completed, the car is once again authorized to circulate on the roads.
Many drivers wonder if it’s possible to temporarily deregister a car without a valid inspection. In 2025, DGT does not require a current ITV to process a temporary suspension. However, before putting the car back on the road, passing the vehicle inspection becomes mandatory.
The process is as straightforward as possible: you can pay the fee online or at a DGT office. Keep in mind that using the vehicle on public roads during suspension is strictly prohibited. Violating this rule can lead to severe penalties.
Temporary de-registration is a convenient option for those who don’t plan to use their car for several months or longer. It helps save on mandatory payments and avoid unnecessary expenses. If you need to return your vehicle to service, the process is simple as long as all requirements are met.
