The new Historical Vehicle Regulationseffective from October 2024, introduces key changes for the ITV (Technical Vehicle Inspection). According to this regulation, there is a total exemption for vehicles over 60 years old, historic mopeds enjoy a complete exemption from the MOT and, in addition, said inspection is made more flexible.
These developments seek to protect historical heritage, facilitating the restoration and maintenance of historic vehicles in Spain.
One of the most notable new features of the regulation is the exemption from passing the ITV for historic vehicles older than 60 years. This measure applies to both cars and motorcycles and responds to the need to simplify the regulations for vehicles that, due to their age, have very limited use. According to the regulation, its reduced environmental and safety impact justifies the elimination of this mandatory procedure.
Furthermore, this measure is expected to encourage the preservation and restoration of historic vehicles, encouraging their owners to keep them in good condition, despite the difficulties that may arise when adapting classic vehicles to modern technical standards.
Another key measure of the regulation is the complete exemption from the MOT for historic mopeds, regardless of their age. This category includes small displacement vehicles that have been classified as historic because they meet the criteria of age (minimum 30 years), original condition and adequate conservation. Despite the exemption, owners can choose to perform voluntary inspections to ensure their vehicle meets safety standards.
For historic vehicles that are less than 60 years old, the regulations also offer advantages. In the case of historic motorcycles, the regulation reduces the frequency of the ITV, which will now be mandatory every four years, compared to the more frequent inspections of conventional vehicles. This represents a reduction in costs and administrative burden for owners of this type of vehicle.
Conditions to be classified as a historic vehicle
To be considered historic, a vehicle must meet certain specific requirements:
- Minimum age of 30 years from its manufacture or first registration.
- Original condition and without significant modifications, respecting its components and main characteristics.
- Correct state of conservation and maintenance, guaranteeing that the vehicle is in driving condition on authorized days.
- Having discontinued its specific model or type.
Additionally, mopeds and agricultural vehicles can be included in the classification if they meet these conditions. It is important to highlight that the new regulations introduce more agile procedures to classify vehicles as historic, which simplifies the process for owners.
Limitations of use and additional benefits of the new standard
Historic vehicles will be able to circulate a maximum of 96 days a year, allowing their owners to choose when to use them. In addition, the regulation establishes that they will be able to access low emission zones (LEZ) in certain cities, as long as local regulations allow it. This represents a considerable benefit compared to the environmental restrictions for other more polluting vehicles.
As we have seen, with this new regulation, Spain moves forward in the protection and promotion of automotive heritage, balancing the conservation of historic vehicles with road safety and environmental regulations. The exemptions and flexibilities introduced not only benefit owners, but also encourage the care of these vehicles as unique pieces of cultural and historical value.
