What is a Ficha Reducida?
A Ficha Reducida is a technical specification document signed by a qualified engineer. It records the vehicle characteristics required for the applicable approval and inspection process. It is distinct from the Spanish ITV card issued through the ITV process.
Is it always needed without a COC?
No. A duplicate manufacturer COC may be available, and other homologation procedures can apply. The vehicle’s approval, origin, age and modifications determine the suitable route.
Does it mean an extra physical inspection?
Do not assume a separate, more detailed physical inspection is always required to prepare a Ficha Reducida. The engineer assesses the available technical information and any checks needed for the specific vehicle. The statutory ITV inspection remains a separate step.
What if the car is modified or has no suitable approval?
A Ficha Reducida alone does not resolve every homologation issue. Modifications or missing approval may require additional evidence or a different procedure. We review this before confirming the process.
What affects the cost and timing?
The available documentation, vehicle characteristics and route required. We coordinate the technical documents and explain external charges before proceeding.
What a COC establishes
A manufacturer’s Certificate of Conformity links the vehicle to its approved type and technical characteristics. Confirm that the document refers to your VIN and that the vehicle still matches it. A specification sheet downloaded for a similar model is not equivalent.
What to send for the technical review
- Full foreign registration document.
- VIN and manufacturer/approval-plate photographs.
- Any COC or manufacturer technical record.
- Details and evidence of modifications.
Do not order a document simply because it is cheaper; first establish what the ITV and approval route require.
Homologation, ITV and registration are separate
Technical approval establishes the applicable compliance route, ITV checks and documents the vehicle, and DGT completes registration. Having one document does not mean the other steps have been completed.
COC, ficha reducida and ITV card compared
| Document | Purpose | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| COC | Manufacturer conformity evidence. | A duplicate may be available; suitability depends on the vehicle. |
| Ficha reducida | Technical characteristics signed by a qualified engineer. | Does not automatically approve modifications or replace individual approval when required. |
| Spanish ITV card | Technical card issued through the applicable Spanish ITV process. | Separate from the COC and ficha reducida. |
Your next step
Start with the Tenerife registration cost calculator, check our service fees and external charges, then send us your documents for a personalised quote. Read the registration costs and taxes guide.
