The new Historical Vehicle Regulations of Spain, in force since October 1, 2024, allows vehicles less than 30 years old to be classified as historic in special cases. These include vehicles declared of cultural interest, included in the General Inventory of Movable Property of the Spanish Historical Heritage, or that have a special interest due to their design, technological innovation or historical relevance. This seeks to protect its cultural value and prevent its export to other countries.
In addition, the regulation makes the registration more flexible, allowing the use of original ones and eliminates some old requirements, such as mandatory stickers, facilitating the restoration and preservation of these vehicles.
When can a vehicle be historic if it is less than 30 years old?
- Cultural or heritage interest: Vehicles included in the General Inventory of Movable Property of Spanish Historical Heritage or declared of cultural interest. This can apply to iconic models, prototypes or vehicles that marked milestones in the industry.
- Technical or historical relevance: Vehicles that provide outstanding technological innovations, unique designs or that have participated in significant historical events.
Benefits of the new classification of the new Historic Vehicle Regulations
The new regulation facilitates the conservation and recognition of these vehicles through measures such as:
- Flexibility in registrations: It is allowed to recover original license plates with old provincial codes, reinforcing the authenticity of the vehicle.
- New IDs: The traditional sticker disappears, replaced by a yellow badge with a black “H”, more visible and suitable for this type of vehicle.
The objective of the new Historical Vehicle Regulations It’s clear. This change aligns Spanish legislation with European standards, seeking to prevent these vehicles from being exported and ensuring their preservation within our country. In addition, it promotes its occasional use, reducing its environmental impact, and encourages its restoration and enhancement as part of heritage.
With this update, Spain adapts its legislation to balance historical preservation with sustainability and modern mobility.