Not the British TV channel, Independent TeleVision, but the Inspección Técnica de Vehículos - the Spanish equivalent of the MOT test.
How does it work in Spain?
It is quite different to the procedure in the UK, where the car owner looks for the cheapest quote from an approved MOT testing station, chooses one, rings up, makes an appointment and drops the car off. At most garages they offer a while-you-wait service, so you can relax, get a coffee, read a magazine or play with your mobile phone, while the mechanic gives your car the once-over.
In Spain, you make the appointment online at your choice of testing station. These are are not garages, but designated testing stations run by the regional junta. They only do vehicle testing and there is usually only one per locality. You turn up on the designated day at the appointed time, present your vehicle details (ficha técnica), pay the fee (I paid just over 30€ earlier this week) and wait your turn.When your registration comes up on the digital display in the waiting area, you drive to your alloted línea and remain in the car.
When summoned, you drive to the first point on the "line", which is emissions. Then it's lights, horn, windscreen wipers, seatbelts, tyres and brakes, followed by an inspection pit examination of the underside of the car, ie steering, brake poads, suspension, shock absorbers, etc.
If your vehicle has passed you get your pegatina, window sticker, and a paper report.
If your vehicle has failed you have a short period in which to get the work done and re-present the vehicle to the ITV station, There is no additional fee for the re-test like there is in the UK.
So the car owner has to "work" unpaid, AND pay a fee which is higher than in the UK.
How often is the ITV?
The first ITV on a car falls due on its fourth birthday, then every two years up to 10, and after that annually.
I just had the first ITV on my four-year-old Peugeot this week. There were several deficiencies, but the nice man passed me anyway, on the understanding I would get the faults, particularly a problem with the brakes, fixed straightaway. I got new front brake pads fitted yesterday.
Happy motoring!