Andorra – Buying or Importing a Car

How do I buy a new car in Andorra as a foreigner?

For those already living in the Principality, acquiring a car is a relatively uncomplicated affair — vehicles can be purchased new or pre-owned from local dealerships or through private transactions. Andorra’s favourable tax environment makes buying a car here particularly attractive, with the 4.5% IGI and the absence of regional levies frequently resulting in lower prices than those found across the border in France or Spain.

To purchase a car in Andorra and register it with Andorran plates, you must hold valid residency in the country and have your driving licence recognised by the authorities. Andorran law draws a clear distinction between different categories of buyer based on residency status, which determines whether a vehicle can be given permanent Andorran plates or only temporary tourist plates.

One common challenge for residents is the relatively modest selection of vehicles available locally. Andorra’s smaller dealership network and more limited used-car inventory means that models commonly found in larger markets like Germany or Spain may simply not be available. For this reason, many residents opt to import a vehicle rather than restrict their search to local stock.

When buying from a local dealership, you will generally be asked to present your passport or national identity card, a valid Andorran residency permit (NIA — Número d’Identificació Administrativa), a proof of address such as your parish registration certificate from your local Comú, and an Andorran bank account or IBAN. Some dealerships, working in partnership with Andorran banks, may offer financing options, though cash and bank transfer payments are widely used. Financing eligibility criteria for newer residents can differ considerably, so it is worth confirming the details directly with both the dealership and your bank.

For the most current requirements, consult the Government of Andorra (govern.ad) and your local Comú (parish council), where vehicle-related registrations are often initiated.

How do I buy a used car in Andorra?

The second-hand car market in Andorra offers a reasonable variety of vehicles at competitive prices, helped along by the same 4.5% IGI rate applied to both new and used vehicles. For many residents, buying locally is simpler and more cost-effective than going through the process of importing a car from abroad.

That said, Andorra’s small population means that the used-car market is more restricted than in larger neighbouring countries. Buyers searching for a specific make or model may find the local supply limited, and sourcing the right vehicle can take longer. Online listings, local dealerships, and personal recommendations are all useful channels when hunting for a suitable car.

Before finalising any private purchase, it is essential to conduct thorough checks on the vehicle. Review its history for any outstanding finance, prior accident damage, or changes of ownership. A detailed inspection should confirm that the vehicle’s condition matches what is advertised, ideally followed by a test drive and a review of any previous ITV (technical inspection) results from its country of origin.

When completing a private sale, the seller should hand over the vehicle invoice or bill of sale, the current Andorran registration document (commonly referred to as the “yellow card”), any existing ITV certificates, and confirmation that all road taxes and outstanding fines have been cleared. Any changes to the vehicle’s registration details — including a change of ownership — must be updated with the traffic authority; keeping these records current is essential to avoiding legal complications down the line.

Ownership transfers must be formally registered with the relevant Andorran vehicle authority. Until this has been confirmed, the buyer should not assume full legal protection, as residual liability could remain with the seller of record. Consult the Government of Andorra’s transport department or the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) for current guidance on transfer procedures and associated fees.

Can I import a vehicle into Andorra, and how does the process work?

Because Andorra lies outside the European Union, all vehicles entering the country must pass through customs and be formally imported. This involves payment of the IGI — a 4.5% tax levied on the vehicle’s value plus transport costs.

Approved residency is a prerequisite for importing a car for permanent registration. As of 2025, any Euro 6-compliant vehicle manufactured no more than six years prior may be imported and registered — and Andorran authorities base this calculation on the manufacturing year alone, not the specific month of production.

There is also a firm prohibition on importing right-hand-drive vehicles. This is a particularly important consideration for expats relocating from countries where vehicles are built with the steering wheel on the right — such cars cannot be registered in Andorra under any circumstances and would need to be sold before the move.

The vehicle must carry EU homologation confirming that it complies with the norms and standards in force across the European Union. Should the car lack this certification, an individual homologation process will be required at an approximate cost of €2,000 (as of 2022 estimates — verify current costs). Vehicles sourced within the EU and accompanied by a valid Certificate of Conformity avoid this additional step.

Those relocating to Andorra may bring their existing car with them. New residents are entitled to import their personal vehicle free of IGI provided the import takes place within 12 months of obtaining residency — an exemption widely taken advantage of by people making a permanent move. However, the additional 10% duty applicable to vehicles originating from outside the EU remains payable regardless of whether the import is linked to a change of residence.

To qualify for import, the vehicle must have been registered in the importer’s name for at least the preceding six months. From January 2019, all vehicles registered in France or Spain must have had their registrations cancelled before crossing into Andorra. Vehicles registered elsewhere can be imported without prior cancellation, but only through the French border crossing — the Spanish border requires prior cancellation from all countries.

Classic or historic vehicles — generally those more than 25 years old — fall under a separate regulatory framework. These vehicles must pass a dedicated technical inspection that is less demanding than the standard ITV, and owners must obtain a historic vehicle certificate issued by the Government. Historic vehicles are assigned a special plate bearing the letter “H” and may benefit from partial tax and inspection exemptions, with special import authorisations available even where Euro emissions standards are not met. However, their use is restricted to exhibitions, events, and recreational purposes.

The step-by-step import process is as follows:

1. Confirm eligibility: Verify that the vehicle is Euro 6-compliant, no more than six years old from its manufacturing year, left-hand drive, and registered in your name for at least six months.
2. Arrange deregistration in the country of origin: Obtain deregistration from the competent transit authority in the country of origin.
3. Organise transport and customs documentation: Contact freight forwarders a few days in advance so they can prepare the customs file, sending the invoice, the original registration certificate, and the Certificate of Conformity (COC).
4. Cross the border and clear customs: Present all documentation at Andorran customs (Duana Andorrana). The main steps include presenting the invoice or sales contract and transport document, paying the Indirect General Tax (IGI) of 4.5%, and providing the Certificate of Conformity (COC) or equivalent.
5. Pass the Andorran ITV: All imported cars must pass the ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles), where it is confirmed that the car is safe and compliant with all legal standards for Andorra.
6. Obtain insurance from an Andorran insurer: Insurance with an Andorran company is required before registration can be completed.
7. Submit registration documents: Documentation required for registration includes a customs declaration, the invoice stamped by Andorran Customs, the IBAN number of the owner, a vehicle insurance certificate, the technical sheet of the vehicle, the ITV certificate in Andorra, and your driving licence.
8. Receive Andorran plates: Registering a vehicle in Andorra typically takes around two days. Once the documents are submitted, the yellow card (equivalent to the registration document) is issued the next day, after which licence plates can be fitted.

The authority responsible for vehicle customs is Duana Andorrana (Andorran Customs). The Andorran Customs service is located on the border at the river Runer (Spanish-Andorran border) and at Porta (French-Andorran border), and is also present in various post offices to control imports of goods entering the Principality. For vehicle registration matters, contact the Government of Andorra’s transport department or the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA).

What are the costs involved in importing a car to Andorra?

Registering a vehicle in Andorra involves several costs: a 4.5% IGI import tax calculated on the vehicle’s value, registration fees of €200, €60 for licence plates from the Automòbil Club d’Andorra, and — where applicable — an additional 10% duty on vehicles not manufactured in Europe or purchased outside EU territory (as of 2024).

Note on the hybrid rate: some sources state that electric models pay only 1% IGI, but as of 2024, electric cars in Andorra pay 4.5% IGI like other vehicles. Always verify the current rate applicable to your vehicle type with Duana Andorrana before budgeting.

Andorra calculates customs duties using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) method, meaning that taxes are assessed not merely on the car’s purchase price but also on the associated shipping costs. Buyers should factor this into their calculations when comparing the total cost of importing versus buying locally.

Where a vehicle does not carry EU homologation, an individual certification process must be completed at an approximate cost of €2,000 (as of 2022 — verify current costs). Vehicles sourced from within the EU and accompanied by a valid Certificate of Conformity bypass this requirement entirely.

Taking everything into account, the total outlay includes the vehicle’s purchase price, the 4.5% IGI, any applicable customs duty, vehicle transport costs, and approximately €650 covering freight forwarding, ITV, registration, the annual circulation tax, and number plates (as of 2024/2025 — verify current figures).

Shipping costs vary considerably depending on where the vehicle originates. For intercontinental imports — from North America, for example — freight charges alone can add several thousand euros. The exact figure depends on the country of origin, the vehicle’s dimensions, and the chosen shipping method, which may be container service or Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo).

By way of comparison, importing a car into France or Spain typically incurs VAT of 20–21% on top of local registration taxes. Andorra’s 4.5% IGI rate is the most favourable in Europe, and there is no ecological surcharge (malus) or regional tax to contend with, as there would be in France.

Always confirm the current rates and calculation methodology directly with Duana Andorrana and the Government of Andorra, as tariff rates and administrative fees can change.

How do I register a vehicle in Andorra?

Vehicle registration in Andorra is open to both residents and non-residents of the Principality. The documentation and process differ slightly depending on the applicant’s status, but in all cases a valid passport, insurance policy, passed technical inspection, and complete vehicle paperwork are required.

Non-residents are able to register a car in Andorra and obtain a temporary tourist licence plate, which is issued for a period of one year and can be renewed. This arrangement is intended for those visiting Europe for leisure or business who wish to use their own car; to qualify, the vehicle owner must not be a resident of either Andorra or the EU. Anyone who subsequently acquires Andorran residency will need to move to permanent plates.

For an imported vehicle, the full set of documents required for registration is as follows: the owner’s passport, the vehicle invoice, a residency certificate where applicable, inspection records from the most recent technical inspection in the country of origin, the technical and homologation certificate or Certificate of Conformity, the export and import declaration, an insurance policy from an Andorran company, and the deregistration certificate from the country of origin.

Every imported vehicle must pass an Andorran ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles) before registration can be completed. The inspection confirms that the vehicle meets local safety and emissions standards — a process similar in scope to Spain’s ITV — and must be conducted at an authorised centre within Andorra. Unlike some countries where an initial roadworthiness test is only required periodically after first registration, Andorra mandates an ITV pass before any imported vehicle can receive its plates.

The annual circulation tax is levied at the parish (Comú) level, while plates and administrative processing are managed by the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA). The overall registration process is efficient: once all documents have been submitted to the appropriate authorities, the registration document (the yellow card) is typically produced the following day, after which plates can be fitted.

For vehicles purchased locally in Andorra, the procedure is somewhat simpler since customs clearance has already been handled. The main remaining steps are obtaining insurance, passing the ITV, and submitting the registration paperwork. For current procedural details, consult the Government of Andorra and the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA).

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Andorra?

Any vehicle registered and driven in Andorra must be covered by an insurance policy taken out with an Andorran insurance company. This requirement is non-negotiable — foreign policies, even those valid throughout the European Union, do not fulfil the condition for vehicles registered in Andorra. This sets Andorra apart from the EU single-market model, where a policy issued in one member state is broadly valid across borders.

Insurance costs in Andorra are generally competitive. Third-party civil liability cover runs to approximately €400 per year, while comprehensive policies with an excess typically start from around €600 annually. Comprehensive cover for a high-value vehicle (€100,000) tends to cost under €2,000 per year (as of 2022 estimates — verify current premiums).

A range of insurers operate in Andorra, including internationally recognised names such as AXA and Catalana Occidente alongside local providers. When comparing policies, it is worth asking each insurer directly whether they will recognise a no-claims bonus accrued with a foreign company — practices differ considerably. Some Andorran insurers will accept documented proof of overseas no-claims history, which can lead to a meaningful reduction in your annual premium.

Beyond insurance, fuel prices in Andorra are generally lower than in the surrounding region, helping to keep the overall cost of vehicle ownership relatively manageable.

For information on the regulatory framework governing insurance in Andorra, contact the Government of Andorra’s Ministry of Finance, which oversees financial services regulation including insurance supervision. Always obtain quotations from at least two or three Andorran insurers before committing to a policy.

What driving licence do I need in Andorra as an expat?

Driving in Andorra is permitted with a licence issued by the Andorran authorities, or with one issued by any EU member state or EFTA member (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). Licences from other countries are accepted where they were issued in accordance with Annex 9 of the International Geneva Convention or Annex 6 of the Vienna International Convention.

Foreign nationals who hold Andorran residency and possess a driving licence from another country are required to exchange it for an Andorran licence within one year of their residency permit being granted. This involves surrendering the foreign licence to the Andorran authorities and meeting the requirements of the Andorran Highway Code.

New residents have 12 months from the date their residency is approved to complete the licence exchange, provided their licence comes from a country on Andorra’s approved exchange list. Where the exchange cannot be completed within that 12-month window, residents have up to two years from the date of residency approval to sit the required test in English; beyond that point, the test is conducted in Catalan only.

All applicants must first register with their local Comú. The documentation required includes a completed local application form, a medical certificate from a local doctor, a recent colour passport-sized photograph taken by a professional, and both the original and a photocopy of each side of the foreign driving licence.

Where a licence originates from a country not party to the Hague Convention, further documentation must be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: either an affidavit certifying the document’s authenticity and its equivalences, or a certificate of authenticity and a certificate of equivalence from the issuing authority in the country of origin. If neither document can be obtained, the applicant will need to complete the full theoretical and practical driving test within two years of residency, with the test available in English or Catalan.

For a full and current list of countries whose licences can be exchanged without a test, and for application forms, visit the Government of Andorra and register with your local Comú. Confirm all requirements well before your move, as bilateral exchange arrangements and procedural rules are subject to change.

How do I sell a car in Andorra?

When selling a vehicle in Andorra, the seller must notify the relevant authorities of the ownership change in order to be released from any ongoing liability for road tax, fines, or incidents involving the vehicle after the date of sale. The overall process closely resembles vehicle transfer procedures elsewhere in Europe, but it is important to follow each stage correctly.

As the seller, you will need to have ready the vehicle’s registration document (the yellow card), the most recent ITV certificate, a bill of sale or transfer agreement signed by both parties, and confirmation that all outstanding communal circulation taxes and road charges have been paid. Any unpaid fines or annual taxes should be settled in advance, as unresolved obligations can complicate the transfer or give rise to ongoing liability.

Any modification to a vehicle’s registered details — including a change of ownership, a change of colour, the addition of significant accessories, or any alteration affecting the vehicle’s original specification — must be updated with the traffic authority promptly. Keeping registration records accurate is essential to avoiding legal complications, and this applies equally to sellers ensuring the transfer is correctly recorded.

Once the transfer documentation has been lodged with the Andorran vehicle registry, the seller’s responsibility for the vehicle comes to an end. Until that confirmation is received, it is advisable to keep copies of all sale documentation as evidence of when and on what terms the transaction took place.

On the tax side, Andorra does not apply capital gains tax to most personal asset sales in the same way that many other jurisdictions do, but the Principality’s tax framework continues to evolve. If you are an Andorran tax resident and have held the vehicle as a business asset, or if you are disposing of multiple vehicles, it is worth consulting a local gestor (administrative adviser) or tax professional to establish whether any income or gains tax obligations arise. For the most current information, consult the Andorran Tax Authority (Ministeri de Finances).

Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Andorra?

Vehicle ownership in Andorra is not especially expensive — recurring administrative costs typically amount to around €150 per year (as of 2022 estimates — verify current figures). Overall annual outgoings for administration, insurance, and technical inspection tend to compare favourably with those in Spain, France, and other bordering countries.

The circulation tax — Andorra’s equivalent of road tax — is set independently by each of the seven parishes (Comús) at the communal level. Unlike countries with a single national road tax, such as the UK’s Vehicle Excise Duty or Switzerland’s vignette, the amount you pay in Andorra depends on the parish in which you are registered. Check with your local Comú for the current rate that applies to your vehicle category.

Periodic roadworthiness testing is carried out under the ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles) system — the same designation used in Spain and broadly comparable to Germany’s TÜV or the UK’s annual MOT. Regular inspections are mandatory to ensure vehicles remain safe and continue to meet legal requirements, and many authorised ITV centres in Andorra send reminders to owners when an inspection is due. The frequency of checks depends on the vehicle’s age — newer vehicles are generally inspected less often — and current schedules should be confirmed with an authorised ITV centre or the relevant transport authority.

Fuel prices in Andorra are generally lower than in neighbouring countries, which helps offset the cost of regular vehicle use. Taking into account administration, ITV, registration renewal, and the annual circulation tax, approximate total overhead costs — excluding fuel and insurance — amount to roughly €650 per year based on figures current at the time of writing. Always verify with official sources for up-to-date figures.

For accurate, current information on ITV inspection schedules, communal road tax rates, and any emissions-related charges, consult your local Comú, the Government of Andorra, and authorised ITV centres in the Principality.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-resident register a car in Andorra?

Non-residents can register a vehicle in Andorra and receive a temporary tourist licence plate, valid for one year and renewable. This option is available to those visiting Europe for leisure or business, provided the owner holds no residency in either Andorra or the EU. Should you subsequently obtain Andorran residency, you will need to transition from temporary to permanent plates.

Are right-hand drive cars allowed in Andorra?

No. Andorra prohibits the import and registration of vehicles with a right-hand-side steering wheel. If you currently own a right-hand drive vehicle — as is standard in countries where traffic drives on the left — you will be unable to register it in Andorra and will need to sell it or re-register it before relocating.

What is the minimum emissions standard for importing a car into Andorra?

As of 2025, only Euro 6-compliant vehicles no more than six years old from their manufacturing date may be imported and registered in Andorra. For diesel vehicles in particular, Euro 6 is the minimum standard, with Euro 4 or 5 diesel engines considered only in exceptional cases such as certified historic vehicles. Always confirm current emissions requirements with the relevant transport authority before purchasing a vehicle abroad for import.

Do new residents get any tax exemption when importing their car?

New residents are entitled to import their personal vehicle without paying the IGI (4.5% tax), provided the import is completed within 12 months of obtaining residency. This exemption is widely used by those making a permanent move to Andorra. However, the additional 10% duty on vehicles originating from outside the EU remains payable regardless of the change of residence. Verify current eligibility conditions with Duana Andorrana before proceeding.

How long does the vehicle registration process take in Andorra?

The registration process typically takes around two days. Once all documents have been submitted to customs and the relevant authorities, the registration document (yellow card) is generally issued the following day, after which licence plates can be installed. Incomplete documentation is the most common cause of delays, so preparing all paperwork thoroughly in advance is strongly recommended.

Can I use my foreign no-claims bonus when insuring a car in Andorra?

This varies between insurers. Some Andorran insurance companies will accept documented evidence of a no-claims record held with a foreign insurer, which can lower your annual premium. Bear in mind that insurance must be taken out with an Andorran company — a policy issued abroad does not satisfy the registration requirement. Contact several Andorran insurers and ask specifically about their approach to recognising overseas no-claims history before choosing a policy.

What happens if my car is too old to import?

If your vehicle is more than six years old from its manufacturing year, it cannot be registered in Andorra. In this case, you would need to sell it in the country of origin and source a different vehicle. An exception exists for vehicles over 25 years old, which may qualify for historic vehicle status and follow a separate import pathway with different technical and tax criteria — though use is restricted to exhibitions, events, and recreational activities. Confirm current age thresholds and historic vehicle criteria with the Government of Andorra’s transport department.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Andorra?

Drivers holding EU, EFTA, or Andorran licences may drive in Andorra without an International Driving Permit. Licences issued in accordance with the Geneva or Vienna International Conventions are also accepted. An International Driving Permit may serve as a useful translation aid alongside a licence written in a non-Roman script, but it does not replace the obligation to exchange your licence for an Andorran one once you become a resident. Confirm the current rules with the Government of Andorra’s transport department.