Andorra enforces a compulsory vehicle roadworthiness testing programme known as the ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles), administered by the government-licensed operator ITV Serveis SA. The majority of private cars and motorcycles undergo testing every two years once they reach a specified age, with older vehicles subject to annual checks. Roadside breakdown assistance is accessible through both local and regional motoring clubs, and policies held with international providers are generally honoured. Given the country’s rugged mountain terrain and severe winter weather, keeping vehicles properly maintained is essential for safe everyday travel.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Inspection scheme name | ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles) |
| Testing authority | ITV Serveis SA (joint venture with Applus+ and Automòbil Club d’Andorra) |
| Private car inspection frequency (as of 2023) | Exempt under 5 years; every 2 years between 5–9 years old; annually over 9 years old |
| Approximate ITV fee for a first/standard inspection (as of 2023) | From €22.20 — check ITV Serveis for current tariffs |
| Winter tyre/chains requirement | Mandatory 1 November to 15 May; fine of €180 for non-compliance |
| Main motoring organisation | Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) — aca.ad |
Does Andorra have a mandatory vehicle inspection scheme?
Yes. Andorra operates an ITV (Inspecció Tècnica de Vehicles) programme, which has been run by the Andorran company ITV Serveis SA since 2 November 2006, following the award of a government tender. The company is structured as a joint venture, with 50% ownership held by the Automòbil Club d’Andorra and the remaining 50% by Applus+ Iteuve Technology SLU, a Spanish firm responsible for the scheme’s technical, technological, and operational management.
ITV Serveis carries out more than 45,000 vehicle inspections each year at its dedicated centre, verifying that all vehicles meet the safety and environmental requirements set by the Government of Andorra. The scheme closely resembles Spain’s own ITV system and shares the same name — fulfilling a role similar to the UK’s MOT or Germany’s TÜV, though the specific inspection intervals differ between countries.
All vehicles in Andorra must undergo periodic ITV testing. The inspection is a legal requirement, intended to confirm that vehicles in circulation are safe and meet applicable standards. Tests cover elements including brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tyres, and exhaust emissions.
How frequently a vehicle must be tested depends on its type and age. For motorcycles, cars, and passenger vehicles accommodating up to nine occupants: those under five years old are exempt from testing; those aged between five and nine years must be tested every two years; and those over nine years old are subject to annual inspection. Public transport vehicles and goods vehicles designed for more than nine passengers must be tested every six months up to the age of fifteen years, and every three months thereafter.
In contrast to the UK’s MOT — which becomes compulsory annually from a vehicle’s third year — Andorra’s system grants newer vehicles a longer initial grace period, more closely mirroring the graduated frameworks used in Spain and France.
Details of current inspection fees can be found on the ITV Serveis tariff page. As of 2023, the cost of a first or second inspection carried out within the scheduled window was approximately €22.20, though the precise amount varies according to vehicle type, whether the inspection is conducted on time or overdue, and the category of licence plate. Always check the ITV Serveis website directly for the latest pricing, as charges are subject to revision.
With regard to paperwork, you are required to bring the vehicle’s “yellow card” — Andorra’s official vehicle registration document — along with a valid proof of insurance when attending the inspection.
The outcome of a failed inspection depends on how severe the faults are. Where deficiencies are identified, all issues must be addressed. Minor defects do not require a formal re-inspection but should be corrected without delay. Serious defects necessitate a return visit to pass the ITV within a maximum of eight working days — or fifteen calendar days if a reduced re-test fee is to apply.
ITV Serveis also holds full membership of DATE, a global association of vehicle compliance authorities, keeping it in step with international developments in inspection standards, road safety, and environmental regulation. For the most current and complete information, refer to the Government of Andorra’s official portal and the ITV Serveis website.
What is the standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Andorra?
The standard of vehicle maintenance and repair services in Andorra is generally regarded as good. The compulsory ITV scheme establishes a foundation of roadworthiness for all vehicles in circulation, while the involvement of internationally recognised inspection bodies such as Applus+ helps anchor local practices within broader European frameworks.
Despite being a small nation, Andorra has a notably high density of vehicles relative to its population — a consequence of duty-free fuel prices and its appeal as a shopping destination. As a result, garages and mechanics are well established across the main urban centres, particularly in and around Andorra la Vella and neighbouring towns such as Escaldes-Engordany and Sant Julià de Lòria.
Catalan is the principal language of business, though Spanish, French, and to a lesser degree Portuguese are also widely spoken. Language barriers are less of an obstacle than in many rural parts of Europe, and mechanics throughout Andorra regularly handle vehicles from across the region given the significant volume of cross-border traffic. That said, if you are not confident in Catalan or Spanish, it is sensible to seek out a workshop recommended by fellow expats or your motoring club, especially when more complex work is required.
Sourcing parts for vehicles registered abroad can sometimes take longer than in larger markets, simply due to the modest scale of Andorra’s automotive sector. Most standard European vehicle components can be ordered with reasonable speed through local suppliers or via cross-border logistics from Spain and France. However, owners of less common makes — particularly those designed to non-European homologation standards — should anticipate possible delays. Keeping a small supply of frequently replaced consumables, such as filters, brake pads, and wiper blades, is advisable if your vehicle is not widely available in the Pyrenean region.
There is no widely recognised formal accreditation framework for independent workshops in Andorra comparable to, for instance, the UK’s Motor Industry Code of Practice or Germany’s ZDK network. The quality and consistency of individual garages may therefore vary. The Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) at aca.ad is the most reliable starting point for identifying trustworthy service providers, given its close connections with the local automotive trade.
Who are the main breakdown recovery providers in Andorra?
The principal breakdown recovery operators and motoring organisations active in Andorra include SAR (Servei d’Assistència Ràpida), RACC Andorra, and RACC Catalonia. Between them, these organisations deliver a broad range of services encompassing roadside assistance, towing, and full vehicle recovery.
SAR (Servei d’Assistència Ràpida) is among the leading recovery operators in Andorra, providing roadside support, towing, and vehicle retrieval. The company operates around the clock, every day of the year, deploying a fleet of vehicles and qualified technicians ready to respond to breakdowns and accidents.
The Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA), accessible at aca.ad, is Andorra’s foremost national motoring organisation. As a co-owner of ITV Serveis and a member of both the AIT (Alliance Internationale de Tourisme) and FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) networks, the ACA operates along similar lines to membership clubs such as the AA in the UK or the ADAC in Germany — providing members with roadside assistance, travel-related services, and access to reciprocal arrangements through international networks. For expats establishing themselves in Andorra, the ACA is the most directly relevant organisation to consider.
The Royal Automobile Club of Catalonia (RACC), while headquartered outside Andorra, extends its services to members throughout Spain and Andorra. As one of Spain’s largest motoring organisations, RACC provides roadside assistance, travel support, legal guidance, and more. RACC membership can be a practical choice for those who travel frequently into Spain, and its coverage of Andorra makes it a credible alternative to Andorra-specific provision alone. Visit racc.es for membership details and coverage information.
Membership-based cover — structured similarly to the AA or RAC in the UK, or the AAA in the United States — is available through both the ACA and RACC. These memberships typically encompass roadside assistance, towing to the nearest garage, and support following accidents. Certain membership tiers additionally include travel assistance for journeys across Europe. Always check directly with the provider whether cover is available for new arrivals who do not yet hold full residency documentation.
Can expats use international breakdown cover in Andorra?
In most circumstances, yes. Andorra falls within the European breakdown coverage area of numerous major international providers, alongside countries such as France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and others. This means that an existing European breakdown policy — taken out in a previous country of residence — is likely to be valid during your initial time in Andorra.
However, the majority of such policies are structured around travel rather than permanent residency. Once you establish residence in Andorra, it is important to contact your insurer to clarify whether your current policy continues to apply, or whether you should transition to a locally based arrangement through the ACA or RACC.
Because the ACA is affiliated with both the FIA and AIT networks, members of associated clubs in other countries — such as the AA (UK), ADAC (Germany), ANWB (Netherlands), or AAA (USA) — may be entitled to reciprocal roadside assistance when travelling in Andorra. The scope of reciprocal cover differs between clubs and membership levels, so it is essential to verify the details with your home motoring club before depending on this arrangement. Keep your membership card and any supporting documentation accessible whenever you drive in Andorra.
Andorra participates in the Green Card System, the Europe-wide framework under which countries recognise foreign vehicle insurance policies held by visiting motorists. This is worth noting as context: while the Green Card System relates to insurance, breakdown assistance is a distinct product governed by individual policy conditions rather than any overarching international agreement. Always obtain explicit confirmation of coverage from your provider.
What do expats need to know about driving a foreign-registered vehicle in Andorra?
Driving a vehicle registered in another country is permitted in Andorra, but once you become a resident, important time limits and obligations come into effect. Obtaining an Andorran driving licence is mandatory for driving in Andorra from one year after the date your residence permit is granted. A comparable principle governs vehicle registration: you will ultimately be required to re-register your vehicle locally.
When permanently importing a vehicle into Andorra, customs duties apply. Standard import clearance requires payment of 4.5% of the vehicle’s current market value. If the vehicle is brought in from outside the EU, an additional pan-European levy of 10% is charged on top of this. However, individuals relocating permanently to Andorra have the right to import their vehicle as a personal effect without incurring the 4.5% duty.
Technical requirements also apply. Andorra permits the importation of vehicles meeting at least Euro 6 environmental standards and no more than six years of age. The vehicle must carry EU homologation confirming it complies with applicable EU norms. Where EU certification is absent, individual homologation must be obtained at an approximate cost of €2,000. These figures are indicative — always verify current requirements with the Andorran customs authority and the relevant government ministry.
Once registered in Andorra, a vehicle must pass the ITV inspection, and all ongoing roadworthiness obligations apply. Both residents and non-residents are eligible to register a vehicle in Andorra. To complete registration, you will need a passport, proof of insurance, a passed technical inspection, and all relevant vehicle documentation.
Confirm that your vehicle is covered by third-party insurance recognised in Andorra — this is the legal minimum for both residents and visitors, so check with your insurer before travelling or relocating. For full guidance on re-registration timelines, homologation requirements, and customs procedures, contact the Government of Andorra or the Automòbil Club d’Andorra at aca.ad.
How do Andorra’s road conditions and climate affect vehicle maintenance?
Situated deep in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra’s road network is overwhelmingly mountainous — and this has a profound influence on how vehicles should be maintained and what equipment they require. Driving in Andorra provides access to spectacular mountain scenery, picturesque villages, and renowned ski resorts, but safely navigating winding highland roads and adhering to specific regulations — particularly during winter — is essential for trouble-free motoring.
The principal roads connecting the capital, Andorra la Vella, and the surrounding countryside are generally well kept. Nevertheless, numerous mountain roads are steep and narrow, demanding careful, considered driving — especially in wintry conditions — and additional journey time. The sustained demands of steep gradients and tight bends place considerably more strain on brakes, tyres, and suspension than typical flat urban driving, meaning these components require more frequent inspection and replacement.
Winter tyre and snow chain requirements rank among the most critical practical matters for year-round residents. Between 1 November and 15 May, vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres bearing the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (“3PMSF”), or must carry snow chains or textile wheel covers for at least two driven wheels. The financial penalty for non-compliance is €180 for cars and €500 for vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes.
Mountain weather can deteriorate without warning: fog, rain, or snowfall can dramatically reduce visibility and road traction. Before any journey — especially to ski resorts or across mountain passes — consult the official Andorran road authority website at mobilitat.ad for information on route closures or chain requirements.
Prior to any winter outing, ensure your vehicle is functioning at its best. Inspect the brakes, lights, windscreen wipers, and heating system, and keep a shovel and emergency kit in the boot in case severe weather is encountered. Expats arriving from warmer or flatter regions should treat the adjustment to Andorran driving as a genuine transition — one that demands changes not only in driving technique but also in how vehicles are prepared and serviced throughout the year.
During summer, while conditions are more favourable, mountain driving continues to impose demands on cooling systems and brakes. The considerable changes in altitude across Andorra — which spans from roughly 840m to over 2,900m above sea level — mean that engine performance, tyre pressures, and coolant levels all merit regular attention. Residents who ski or make frequent journeys through mountain passes should treat an annual pre-winter service check as routine, covering tyres, brakes, battery condition, antifreeze levels, and lighting.
The following is a recommended seasonal maintenance checklist for Andorra residents:
- Fit winter tyres (3PMSF-rated) by 1 November; return to summer tyres after 15 May
- Top up and check antifreeze/coolant before the cold season begins
- Inspect and replace wiper blades before winter weather arrives
- Assess brake pad thickness — steep descents significantly accelerate wear
- Carry snow chains even when winter tyres are already fitted
- Test battery health before winter, as cold conditions reduce battery capacity
- Keep a basic emergency kit: warning triangle, hi-vis vest, shovel, and torch
Step-by-step: How to prepare your vehicle for the Andorran ITV inspection
- Check your inspection due date. Review your vehicle’s Andorran registration document (the “yellow card”) to confirm when your ITV is next due, based on your vehicle’s age and category.
- Book your appointment. Contact ITV Serveis SA to schedule your inspection. Visit itvserveis.com for booking options and current opening hours.
- Pre-inspect your vehicle. Check all lights, tyres (tread depth and pressure), wipers, horn, brakes, and steering. Address any obvious faults before the appointment to avoid a fail.
- Gather required documents. Bring the vehicle’s yellow registration card and a valid insurance receipt. Additional documentation may be required for vehicles carrying dangerous goods or that have undergone major modifications.
- Attend the inspection centre. Present your documents at the ITV station. The inspection covers brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tyres, emissions, and general vehicle condition.
- Receive your result. If the vehicle passes, you will receive a certificate and updated ITV documentation. If minor faults are found, rectify them promptly. If serious faults are found, repairs must be completed and the vehicle re-inspected within eight working days.
- For a failed vehicle with serious defects: Do not drive the vehicle until repairs are completed. Arrange for it to be recovered or transported to a qualified mechanic, then return for a re-inspection within the required timeframe to potentially benefit from a reduced re-test fee.
Frequently asked questions
How often does my car need an ITV inspection in Andorra?
For motorcycles, cars, and passenger vehicles with up to nine seats: vehicles under five years old are exempt from testing; those aged between five and nine years must be inspected every two years; and those over nine years old require an annual inspection. Separate rules apply to commercial vehicles, buses, and taxis — contact ITV Serveis for the requirements specific to your vehicle category.
What documents do I need for the Andorran ITV test?
You must bring the vehicle’s yellow card (Andorra’s official vehicle registration document) and a valid proof of insurance to the inspection. Additional paperwork may be necessary for vehicles transporting hazardous materials or that have undergone significant technical alterations.
What happens if my vehicle fails the ITV?
Where defects are classified as minor, a formal re-inspection is not required, but the faults should be rectified as soon as possible. Where defects are serious, the vehicle must successfully pass the ITV again within a maximum of eight working days — or fifteen calendar days if a reduced re-test charge is to be applied. Extremely serious defects may result in the vehicle being prohibited from leaving the inspection station under its own power.
Can I use my existing home-country breakdown cover when I first arrive in Andorra?
Andorra lies within the European breakdown coverage zone recognised by many major international providers. However, most such policies are designed for travellers rather than permanent residents. Once you take up residence, verify ongoing policy validity with your insurer and consider joining the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) or another locally recognised provider.
Is winter tyre use really enforced in Andorra?
Yes. Fitting winter tyres marked with the 3PMSF symbol, or carrying snow chains, is a legal requirement between 1 November and 15 May. Authorities actively enforce this rule, and vehicles without compliant equipment can be fined or turned back from certain roads. The penalty for cars is €180.
Do I need to re-register my foreign-plated vehicle when I become a resident in Andorra?
Yes, in due course. Holding an Andorran driving licence becomes obligatory one year after receiving a residence permit, and a similar obligation applies to vehicle registration. Andorra allows the importation of vehicles meeting Euro 6 emission standards or higher, aged no more than six years, and carrying EU homologation. Reach out to the Government of Andorra or the ACA for guidance tailored to your circumstances.
What is the Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) and is it worth joining?
The ACA at aca.ad is Andorra’s national motoring club, a co-owner of ITV Serveis, and a member of both the FIA and AIT international networks. It offers roadside assistance, travel-related services, and access to reciprocal arrangements with affiliated clubs around the world. For expats living and driving in Andorra, ACA membership provides a dependable local support network and is widely considered excellent value.
Where can I check live road conditions and pass closures in Andorra?
Before departing — particularly when heading to ski areas or crossing mountain passes — visit the official Andorran road authority website at mobilitat.ad for up-to-date information on road closures and chain requirements. Conditions in the mountains can deteriorate rapidly due to snowfall, fog, and rockfall, especially during winter and early spring.
Are there any restrictions on bringing a car into Andorra from outside the EU?
When importing a vehicle from outside the EU, an additional pan-European levy of 10% applies on top of the standard 4.5% import duty — and this 10% charge is payable regardless of whether the import is linked to a change of residence. If the vehicle does not carry EU certification, individual homologation must be completed at an approximate cost of €2,000. Confirm current figures and procedures with the Andorran customs authority before proceeding with any vehicle import.