Buying or selling a second-hand car seems simple, but the transfer gets complicated when a document is missing. Here's the complete list of what you need to gather before starting the procedure, whether you do it yourself or we handle it for you.

Vehicle documents

  • Original registration document (permiso de circulación).
  • Technical sheet (ITV card) in force.
  • Proof of the latest ITV inspection passed, if it isn't already recorded on the technical sheet.

Buyer and seller documents

  • DNI/NIE of both parties (original or copy, depending on how the procedure is filed).
  • Sale contract, signed by both, with complete details: names, DNI/NIE, addresses, registration plate, price and date of the transaction. This document is essential (or a sales invoice for the vehicle).

If the buyer or seller is a company, you also need the CIF and documentation proving the authority of whoever signs on its behalf.

Before filing the transfer at the Traffic Office you must settle the Transfer Tax (ITP) with the Canary Islands Tax Agency (form 620). Without this filing the DGT will not accept the procedure.

Vehicle insurance

The buyer must have the compulsory insurance in their name before driving the vehicle, although it isn't a requirement physically submitted at the Traffic Office. Even so, it's advisable to have it sorted at the very moment of purchase so you aren't left without cover for a single day.

Proof of IVTM payment (if applicable)

Although it isn't always required as a document, it's worth checking that the current year's road tax is up to date. If there are outstanding receipts, the transfer can't be completed at the Traffic Office.

Special cases that require additional documents

  • Inheritance: deed of inheritance or declaration of heirs, death certificate and proof of Inheritance Tax (not ITP).
  • Vehicle with outstanding financing or reservation of title: letter cancelling the reservation of title.
  • Imported vehicle: import DUA.

Quick summary: checklist

  • Registration document.
  • Technical sheet with ITV in force.
  • Sale contract signed and complete.
  • DNI/NIE of buyer and seller.
  • Road tax (IVTM) up to date.

Are you buying or selling a vehicle and want to avoid the trips to the Traffic Office? At Rumbo we check that you have all the right documentation before filing anything, settle the tax and handle the full transfer for you.