Becoming residents of LA and driving

The decision to bring a UK car here/to sell the UK car and buy a Spanish car was always marginal.

Pre-Brexit, there were import taxes/registration costs/lighting changes etc. Some of the import taxes could be avoided if the car was submitted within 2 months of padron.

Post-Brexit, this has changed ... see   https://www.spanish-number-plates.com/importing-vehicles-from-the-uk-post-brexit/

It is my understanding that new arrivals will now need to take a Spanish driving test and obtain a Spanish licence. There is a reasonable time period in which to do this. The pre-Brexit easy-swap process has gone.

You will be far better off in a lhd car, and although car prices in Spain may seem higher that the UK the resale value is also higher. A rhd car, even on Spanish plates will always be worth less, and only a Brit would want it. Spares may not be the same also.

lots of info here

https://www.citizensadvice.org.es/?s=driving+licence+exchange

Currently, you would need to take a Spanish driving test within 6 months of becoming resident, as the previous exchange system effectively only operates for those who were resident before 31st December 2020 - and subject to other criteria. However, the UK and Spanish governments are considering a bilateral agreement to continue the old process, so that may change.

If you are making a move of permanent residence, you don't need to pay import duty, IVA (VAT) or other taxes if you bring your UK car with you - provided you've already owned it for more than 12 months in the UK; don't sell it within 12 months of arriving; and it's for personal (not commercial) use only. You would need an export certificate and all the car docs. On arrival in Spain, you will then need to go through a 'matriculation' process and re-register the car on Spainish plates, change lights, etc. This will cost towards €1,000.

The other thing to consider is that it's safer and more convenient to have a LHD car in Spain - think about overtaking, using toll booths, etc.

In my opinion, I would suggest only bringing a car if it is really special to you (rare model, emotional attachment, etc.).

Hope this helps!

Thank you for your help.  Really helpful.

Thanks so much.  Really appreciate your advice.

Thanks loads!

This is great and given us the insight we needed.  Thanks so much!  LHD it is! :)