article_detail

At this time of year, the Christmas spirit is everywhere in Spain. Streets are lit up, shops are bustling and some car owners have decided to extend the festive cheer to their vehicles. A very jolly choice, but one that could carry a rather Grinch‑like downside: a fine that can reach several hundred euros.

 

Decorating a car with reindeer antlers on the windows, a red nose on the grille or a reindeer tail on the boot may look cute, but believe it or not, it’s illegal.

 

According to the DGT, these additions alter the original dimensions of the car’s body and, according to Spanish regulations, any such modifications must be approved before the vehicle can be legally driven on public roads.

The Vehicle Modifications Manual lists all significant changes that require a homologation process. In short, any alteration that changes the exterior dimensions, creates a safety risk or affects the information on the vehicle’s registration certificate must be properly approved.

 

This includes bodywork modifications such as tow balls or hitches. Sadly, for all those festive fanatics out there, reindeer antlers fall into the same category. Some retailers now even warn that they are not suitable for driving on highways or dual carriageways.

 

If your Christmas decorations are purely aesthetic and don’t change the vehicle’s dimensions, you don’t need approval. However, the rules specify that both your insurance company and the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) must be informed to avoid problems.

 

Anyone choosing to take a reindeer‑decorated car for a spin could face a fine of up to €500.

 

To steer clear of a Christmas‑related traffic ticket, the DGT reminds drivers that any significant modification must be carried out in an authorised workshop. After the work is completed, it must be checked at an ITV vehicle inspection station within 15 days. Once the new technical data sheet reflects the changes, a new circulation permit must be requested at the corresponding Traffic Headquarters.

 

Spain loves the Christmas spirit, but even Santa’s sleigh needs official approval before hitting the roads.

 

Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates