Italy – Buying or Importing a Car

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

Foreign nationals are permitted to purchase a car in Italy, but their eligibility depends significantly on whether they hold Italian residency. Residency status affects both the registration process and the legal basis for ownership, making it the central consideration for anyone looking to buy a vehicle locally.

For those who are full-time residents in Italy, the purchase process is relatively uncomplicated. You will be required to present a Codice Fiscale (Italian Tax Code), along with either a Permesso di Soggiorno (Residency Permit) or a Certificato di Residenza (Certificate of Residency). With these in hand, you are treated in much the same way as an Italian citizen when it comes to registering a vehicle.

EU citizens who are not resident in Italy face a more complicated situation: standard Italian plates cannot be issued without residency. The available alternative is the “EE” (Foreign Visitors) plate, a temporary registration valid for 12 months. This scheme is intended for EU nationals who are temporarily importing or purchasing a new vehicle with a view to eventually exporting it. To apply, you must submit Form TT 2119, a Certificate of Conformity, a purchase invoice, a valid passport or ID, and your Codice Fiscale.

Non-EU nationals who have not established Italian residency are generally unable to purchase a vehicle for permanent registration. While options such as temporary vehicle importation exist, anyone intending to keep a car in Italy for regular use will need to obtain residency first.

When buying from a dealership (concessionaria), you will have access to brands including Fiat, Volkswagen, Toyota, Ford, Peugeot, and Dacia, all of which come with manufacturer warranties and, in many cases, financing options. Having an Italian bank account makes payments and finance arrangements considerably easier. Non-residents, however, will typically find that a cash purchase is the most practical approach, as financing products are predominantly offered to residents. For the latest requirements, consult the dealership directly and, for queries relating to residency or permits, the Italian Ministry of the Interior.

How do I buy a used car in Italy?

The most widely used platforms for finding second-hand vehicles in Italy include AutoScout24.it, Automobile.it, and Subito.it. Many dealerships also carry certified pre-owned stock. Before committing to any purchase, it is essential to carry out a thorough history check on the vehicle to avoid inheriting problems such as outstanding debts or undisclosed accident damage.

A fundamental step before purchasing is to consult the Pubblico Registro Automobilistico (PRA), which is Italy’s national vehicle ownership register operated by the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI). By providing the licence plate number to the ACI, you can establish whether the vehicle has any outstanding finance agreements, unpaid fines, or tax liabilities attached to it.

One important point to be aware of is that the annual road tax (bollo auto) continues to accrue on every registered vehicle in Italy, regardless of whether it is being used. Any unpaid tax remains associated with the vehicle rather than the seller, meaning you could inherit someone else’s debt if you do not check this beforehand. A valid payment receipt should always be confirmed with the seller before agreeing to a sale.

After completing a purchase, the formal transfer of ownership — known as the Passaggio di Proprietà — must be completed within 60 days. This can be handled at an Agenzia di Pratiche Automobilistiche, an ACI office, or the local Motorizzazione Civile. When buying through a dealership, the dealer will usually take care of the ownership transfer on your behalf.

Until the ownership transfer has been officially recorded, the previous owner continues to bear legal responsibility for any taxes, fines, or incidents involving the vehicle. Both parties therefore have a strong interest in completing the process without delay. The cost of registering the change of ownership typically ranges from around €300 to over €1,500, depending on the category and specifications of the vehicle — confirm current fees with the ACI or your regional Motorizzazione Civile office.

Documents normally required for a private used-car purchase include: the vehicle’s libretto (registration logbook), the seller’s valid identification, evidence of the sale (either an official act of sale or a private contract), your Codice Fiscale, proof of insurance, and your own valid ID and proof of residency. For registration purposes, you will also need a residency certificate and, if applicable as a non-EU citizen, a residence permit.

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

Italy’s rules for importing a vehicle vary considerably depending on whether the car originates from within the EU or from a country outside it. EU-sourced vehicles benefit from a more streamlined process since they already meet many European standards, with the main task being a straightforward registration transfer. Vehicles from non-EU countries, however, face considerably stricter requirements, including customs clearance and potentially extensive modifications to meet emissions and safety standards.

Every car registered in Italy must comply with Euro 6 emissions standards, although vehicles classed as historic — generally those over 30 years old — may be eligible for exemptions. Safety requirements are strictly enforced, and your vehicle may require modifications or a dedicated technical inspection to confirm it meets Italian road safety regulations. Italy drives on the right-hand side, and although right-hand drive vehicles are not expressly banned, they can encounter practical difficulties and are likely to attract additional scrutiny during inspections.

Since 2018, anyone who has been permanently resident in Italy for more than 60 days is legally required to register any vehicle carrying foreign plates and switch to Italian ones. This is a particularly important rule for expats relocating to Italy with their existing car.

Several government bodies are involved in the import and registration process. The Motorizzazione Civile (UMC) handles technical inspections and initial vehicle approval; the Pubblico Registro Automobilistico (PRA) manages final registration and ownership records; the Agenzia delle Entrate is responsible for collecting taxes such as VAT and registration fees; and the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli oversees import duties on vehicles arriving from outside the EU.

For those moving to Italy on a permanent basis, a personal effects exemption — known as franchise per trasloco — may be available. This can allow you to bring a vehicle you have owned and used for at least six months before relocating without incurring import duty or VAT. An application must be submitted to the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (Italian Customs Agency), along with evidence of prior ownership and use. The conditions for eligibility are subject to change, so always confirm the current requirements directly with the customs authority before proceeding.

The step-by-step import process for a non-EU vehicle is as follows:

1. Arrange international shipping. Transporting a car from the USA to Italy typically takes between 4–6 weeks, depending on the ports involved and the chosen method of transport. The two principal options are Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping.
2. Clear customs. On arrival in Italy, declare the vehicle to the Agenzia delle Dogane. Pay any applicable import duty and VAT (see the costs section below). Obtain full customs clearance documentation.
3. Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC). This document certifies that the vehicle meets EU technical standards. If one cannot be provided, a technical inspection and a homologation procedure will be required.
4. Book a technical inspection at the Motorizzazione Civile (UMC). Make an appointment at your local UMC office and bring all relevant documents, including the COC translated into Italian, the purchase invoice, proof of VAT payment, the TT2119 form, and a technical control certificate. The UMC will carry out the necessary inspections and issue a “Reserva” permitting temporary use.
5. Register with the PRA. Within 60 days of receiving the UMC certificate, attend the PRA with the UMC certificate, all translated documents, and the completed NP2D form. Once approval is granted, Italian licence plates will be issued and the ownership transfer is finalised.
6. Pay road tax (bollo auto) and obtain insurance before taking the vehicle onto Italian roads.

For authoritative guidance on customs procedures, consult the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli. For registration matters, contact the Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti (MIT) or visit your nearest ACI office.

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

Importing a vehicle into Italy entails multiple categories of expenditure. It is essential to map out these costs in advance, as the total outlay can far exceed the original purchase price of the car.

The standard import duty rate is approximately 10% of the assessed vehicle value, while VAT (IVA) is applied at 22% on the combined total of the vehicle value and the duty. Registration tax is calculated separately and varies according to engine size and emissions category. Always confirm the prevailing rates for duty and VAT with the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli and the Agenzia delle Entrate, as these figures are subject to legislative change.

Classic vehicles aged over 30 years may be entitled to reduced VAT rates under Italian import legislation. If you are relocating to Italy and have owned the vehicle for a minimum of six months prior to your move, the personal effects exemption may eliminate both duty and VAT entirely — subject to confirmation of eligibility with the customs authority.

Further costs to factor into your budget include the Provincial Transcription Tax, ACI administrative fees, stamp duty for PRA registration, undercarriage cleaning charges required to remove foreign soil, and any fees associated with customs brokerage, import processing, and logistics service providers.

As a practical guideline, you should anticipate adding roughly 10–20% on top of the vehicle’s purchase price to cover all associated registration, tax, insurance, and maintenance costs. For vehicles arriving from outside the EU, the cumulative effect of customs duties and compliance expenditure can push the overall total considerably higher. Always request an itemised quotation from a licensed customs broker before making a final decision.

How do I register a vehicle in Italy?

The principal authority for vehicle registration in Italy is the Ufficio Motorizzazione Civile (Motor Vehicles Office), which has offices throughout the country. Ownership records are maintained separately by the Pubblico Registro Automobilistico (PRA), which is administered by the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI).

If you are purchasing from a dealership, the dealer will ordinarily manage the ownership transfer on your behalf. For a private purchase or an import, you will need to handle the process independently or engage a specialist Agenzia di Pratiche Automobilistiche (a car paperwork agency) to assist you.

Standard documents required for registration include proof of purchase, a valid identity document, your Codice Fiscale, a certificate of residency, and proof of insurance. For an imported vehicle, additional documentation is needed: the Certificate of Conformity (or homologation certificate where applicable), proof of customs clearance, evidence of VAT payment, and the completed TT2119 form.

An imported used vehicle must first pass a roadworthiness inspection to confirm it meets Italian technical standards before registration can proceed. Successful completion of this inspection results in the issuance of a certificate of conformity.

Once you have received your vehicle registration certificate from the Motorizzazione Civile, you are required to complete registration with the PRA within 60 days. The complete registration process, from initial submission to receiving Italian plates, typically takes between 1 and 3 months depending on the region — as of 2025. This is substantially longer than in countries with centralised digital systems, so it is important to allow adequate time and plan accordingly.

The official online vehicle information portal operated by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport is Il Portale dell’Automobilista, where you can access guidance on registration procedures and carry out official vehicle record searches.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Italy?

Every vehicle on Italian roads must carry third-party liability insurance, known as Responsabilità Civile Auto (RC Auto). The legal minimum provides relatively basic protection, but it is possible to extend cover with additional options such as fire and theft (incendio e furto), driver accident cover for incidents where the driver is at fault (infortuni del conducente), and breakdown and roadside assistance.

Vehicle insurance in Italy is attached to the car rather than to the driver. This means that the no-claims bonus system works differently from that in some other countries where policies are tied primarily to the individual. Discounts for a good driving history may still be available, but these are administered differently by Italian insurers. Crucially, a vehicle must be insured before it can be driven at all — including when leaving the dealership for the first time.

If you are obtaining car insurance in Italy for the first time and hold only a foreign driving licence, insurers are likely to treat you as a new driver regardless of your actual experience, which will result in a higher premium. Some providers will take into account a no-claims history from a foreign insurer to reduce your premium, though this practice is not universal. It is worth approaching several insurers and presenting documentation of your claims history from your previous provider.

Annual premiums for car insurance in Italy typically fall somewhere between €130 and €500, influenced by factors including driving record, vehicle type, and location — as of 2025. However, newly arrived residents without an Italian driving history can expect to pay considerably more. Italy has a competitive private insurance market, and policies can be compared through brokers and online comparison tools. The sector is regulated by IVASS (Istituto per la Vigilanza sulle Assicurazioni), Italy’s insurance supervisory authority, through which you can verify whether an insurer holds a valid licence to operate.

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

EU nationals holding a valid EU-format driving licence may continue to use it in Italy once resident. While it is advisable to register the licence with the Motorizzazione Civile, this step is not strictly required. Those holding older paper-format licences must convert them within 2 years of taking up residency.

Non-EU nationals — including those from countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia — are required to either exchange their licence or retake the Italian driving test within 12 months of establishing residency. Italy does not have automatic licence conversion arrangements with these countries. This is a significant point: unlike situations where a simple administrative exchange suffices, residents from countries without a reciprocal agreement who miss the 12-month deadline will need to sit both the theory and practical elements of the Italian driving test.

A foreign licence may be used in Italy for up to one year, but non-EU residents must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation to ensure they are compliant with Italian regulations. The IDP is not valid on its own — it must be carried in conjunction with the original national licence at all times.

Italy does maintain bilateral agreements with a number of countries that allow direct licence exchange without requiring a retest. The list of covered countries is periodically updated, so it is important to check the current position with the Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti or your local Motorizzazione Civile office. Exchange applications are submitted to the Motorizzazione Civile. Driving with an invalid licence can result in substantial fines and may render your insurance void in the event of an accident.

How do I sell a car in Italy?

Selling a vehicle in Italy requires a formal transfer of ownership and notification to the relevant authorities. The procedure mirrors the purchasing process in reverse, and it falls to the seller to ensure that the transfer is properly recorded and completed.

The Passaggio di Proprietà (transfer of ownership) must be finalised within 60 days of the date of sale. It can be completed at an Agenzia di Pratiche Automobilistiche, an ACI office, or the local Motorizzazione Civile. Both the buyer and seller are typically required to be present or to authorise a representative to act on their behalf. The documents needed include the vehicle logbook (libretto), the certificate of ownership, valid identity documents and Codice Fiscale for both parties, and the act of sale (atto di vendita).

Until the transfer of ownership has been formally recorded in the official registers, the previous registered owner remains legally liable for any taxes, fines, or accidents involving the vehicle. This creates a meaningful risk for sellers: if the buyer delays the transfer and incurs a fine or is involved in a collision, the registered owner at that time may be held accountable. It is therefore strongly advisable to keep a signed copy of the act of sale and to follow up with the buyer to confirm the transfer has been completed.

Once the vehicle has been de-registered in your name, you are no longer obligated to pay the annual road tax. If you are selling to a buyer who intends to take the vehicle out of Italy, you will need to apply to have the vehicle removed from the National Vehicle Record Office and the PRA for permanent export.

The private sale of a personal vehicle in Italy does not generally attract capital gains tax, provided the transactions are not part of a commercial pattern of activity. If sales are carried out on a repeated or business-like basis, tax obligations may arise. For advice on your specific circumstances, consult the Agenzia delle Entrate or a qualified Italian tax professional.

What are the ongoing costs and obligations for vehicle ownership in Italy?

Italy’s annual vehicle road tax — commonly called the bollo auto or simply the bollo — is an obligatory charge tied to vehicle ownership rather than vehicle use. Its revenue supports the upkeep and expansion of the Italian road network and constitutes a meaningful income stream for regional governments. Whether a vehicle is driven regularly or left in a garage, the bollo falls due each year without exception.

The amount payable is determined by the vehicle’s output in kilowatts, its fuel type, and its EU emissions classification. Because regional authorities in Italy have the power to set their own bollo rates, the charge can differ noticeably from one region to another. Various regions offer reductions and exemptions for electric, hybrid, and gas-powered vehicles as part of efforts to promote cleaner transport. Vehicles with engine output exceeding 185 kW (approximately 251 horsepower) are also subject to an additional superbollo surcharge of €20 per kW above that threshold — as of 2025. Use the calculator available on the ACI website or the Agenzia delle Entrate vehicle tax page to check the rate applicable to your vehicle.

Bollo payments can be made at a local ACI office, online, or through authorised outlets including tobacconists (tabaccheria), banks, and post offices (Poste Italiane). You will need to present the vehicle logbook (libretto), your identity document, and your Codice Fiscale.

All vehicles registered in Italy are subject to a mandatory roadworthiness test, the Revisione, which is broadly equivalent to the MOT in the UK or the Contrôle Technique in France. The first Revisione falls due four years after the date of initial registration, with subsequent tests required every two years. Finding your nearest Centro Revisioni Auto is straightforward, and the test fee is approximately €70 — as of 2025; confirm the current charge locally. A vehicle found to be operating without a valid Revisione during a police stop may result in a fine and impoundment of the vehicle.

It is advisable to book an appointment at an authorised testing centre (officine revisione) in good time ahead of your due date. A directory of approved centres is available through the Motorizzazione Civile website. The Revisione assessment covers mechanical safety, emissions output, lighting, and noise levels — a broad scope similar to equivalent tests in other European countries, though the scheduling arrangements and fee structure differ.

In addition to road tax and the Revisione, vehicle owners should budget for mandatory third-party insurance renewed annually, any charges associated with Low Emission Zones (ZTL — Zone a Traffico Limitato) operating in many Italian city centres, and routine mechanical maintenance. Certain categories of vehicle — including some historic cars and vehicles owned by individuals with disabilities — may qualify for exemptions from or reductions in the road tax obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need Italian residency to buy and register a car in Italy?

Article 134 of the Italian Highway Code restricts the issuance of standard licence plates and a regular registration document to individuals who are resident in Italy. Residency in this context means being registered in the population registers as habitually living in Italy, or having the majority of your personal and economic interests there. Non-residents may apply for the temporary EE (Foreign Visitor) plates, which are valid for 12 months, but cannot obtain standard Italian plates. Always check the current requirements with the Motorizzazione Civile, as rules may be updated.

What is the Codice Fiscale, and do I need one to buy a car?

The Codice Fiscale is Italy’s individual tax identification code and is a mandatory requirement for any vehicle-related transaction in the country. You can apply for one free of charge at your nearest office of the Agenzia delle Entrate. The application process is straightforward, and obtaining your Codice Fiscale as soon as possible after arriving in Italy will make all subsequent administrative procedures considerably easier.

Can I use my foreign driving licence in Italy permanently?

Non-EU citizens must either exchange their existing licence or pass the Italian driving test within 12 months of establishing residency. Because Italy does not have automatic conversion agreements with many countries, residents from non-reciprocal nations who fail to act within this window will need to sit the full Italian theory and practical tests. EU citizens can generally continue to use their EU-format licence without restriction. Check the current list of countries with reciprocal agreements at the Motorizzazione Civile before your one-year window closes.

How long does it take to register an imported vehicle in Italy?

From beginning to end, the vehicle registration process typically takes between 1 and 3 months, varying by region — as of 2025. The timeline extends further for non-EU vehicles that require homologation. Enlisting the services of a specialist Agenzia di Pratiche Automobilistiche can help to navigate the paperwork and reduce delays considerably.

Is there a personal effects exemption for importing a car when relocating to Italy?

Yes, a removal goods exemption (franchise per trasloco) may apply if you have owned and actively used the vehicle for at least six months before relocating to Italy, potentially exempting you from import duty and VAT. This exemption is subject to specific eligibility conditions that can change over time. Contact the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli directly to verify the current criteria before arranging to ship your vehicle.

Does Italy allow right-hand drive vehicles to be registered?

While Italian law does not expressly prohibit right-hand drive vehicles, they face considerable practical obstacles. Such vehicles will be subjected to thorough technical inspections covering headlight alignment and other safety aspects, and may require modifications to comply with Italian road safety standards. Homologation costs for non-standard vehicles can be substantial. Consulting a specialist importer before beginning the process is strongly recommended.

What happens if I don’t complete the Passaggio di Proprietà within 60 days?

The formal transfer of ownership must be completed within 60 days of the date of sale. Failing to meet this deadline can lead to financial penalties, and the former registered owner continues to bear legal liability for taxes and any sanctions linked to the vehicle until the transfer has been officially recorded. Always move promptly after a sale or purchase, and keep a signed copy of the act of sale as a record of the transaction date.

Where can I check a used car’s history before buying in Italy?

The Pubblico Registro Automobilistico (PRA), operated by the ACI, holds official ownership records for all registered vehicles in Italy. By supplying the licence plate number to the ACI, you can access information on outstanding finance, unpaid road tax, and any other encumbrances attached to the vehicle. Always carry out this check before agreeing to purchase a used car. Official vehicle record searches can be initiated through www.aci.it or the Il Portale dell’Automobilista.