ITV in Tenerife: when it's due, 2026 prices, how to pass first time

If you live in Tenerife, your date with the ITV comes around whether you like it or not. The good news: with a little preparation, most cars pass first time without drama. Here's what you need to know, updated for 2026.

When is it due?

For passenger cars, it depends on the vehicle's age:

• New car: exempt for the first 4 years.
• 4 to 10 years old: every 2 years.
• Over 10 years old: every year.
• Motorbikes: first test at 4 years, then every 2.

A handy trick: you can take the test up to 30 days before your deadline without losing a single day of validity. On an island where stations fill up fast, booking ahead saves stress.

What they check and what it costs in the Canaries

Inspectors go over vehicle identification, lights and signalling, brakes, steering, axles, tyres and suspension, bodywork, emissions and safety items (seatbelts, horn, mirrors).

New maximum rates apply in the Canary Islands from 1 February 2026 (up 3.8%):

• Petrol with catalytic converter: up to €42.07
• Diesel: up to €51.44
• Electric and non-catalysed petrol: up to €36.95

Add the DGT fee (around €4-5) and IGIC tax, and the final bill usually lands between €40 and €52. These are caps: stations may charge less, and booking online is often cheaper. In Tenerife, Applus+ runs stations in Güímar, Adeje, Los Rodeos and La Cuesta (Taco); several even open on Sunday mornings.

Why cars fail (and what the fines are)

Over 80% of failed inspections come down to four areas:

• Tyres (~34%): tread below 1.6 mm, cuts, uneven wear.
• Lights (~31%): often just a blown bulb.
• Emissions and OBD: especially diesels overdue for a service.
• Brakes (~8-13%).

Driving with an expired or "unfavourable" ITV means a €200 fine (€100 with prompt payment); a "negative" result can cost up to €500 and the car is immobilised. No licence points are taken, but it's a headache nobody needs. If you fail, you have 2 months to repair and retest.

How to show up prepared

Ten minutes of checks can save you a second trip:

• Turn on every light and have someone check brake lights and indicators.
• Look at your tyres: tread depth, pressure, no bulges or damage.
• No warning lights on the dash (a lit check engine light is a fail).
• Wipers, horn, seatbelts, readable number plates.
• Bring your permiso de circulación and ficha técnica.

And if you'd rather play it safe, Teide Motors offers a pre-ITV check-up and will get your car ready to pass first time.