Home > Blog > How to buy used cars Portugal?
How to buy used cars Portugal?
Portugal is a fantastic country to explore by car, offering sunny weather and stunning landscapes throughout. Purchasing a car here can be a smooth process, especially when you have the necessary documents in order. Looking to save some money? Consider opting for a used vehicle when buying used cars portugal—it’s a smart and budget-friendly option.
There are so many places you can go to buy used cars in Portugal, including dealerships, private sellers, or online.In 2017, Portugal was ranked as the ninth-most expensive country on the Global Used Car Index, placing it ahead of nations like Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This is because the car depreciation rate is a little slower in Portugal compared to other countries.
If you are choosing to purchase through dealerships all important paperwork which is involved in sales they will take care of that and it’s the secure process. If you buy privately, you are the one who has to take care of all documents and put them in order, it’s all your responsibility. You can also find used cars in Portugal at local events like car fairs and auctions, providing another opportunity to make a purchase.
The seller will provide you these following things:
- The (Requerimento de Registo Automóvel), or the transfer of ownership/registration application form, must be properly completed and signed. Once filled out, it needs to be submitted to the car registration office (IMT), along with the payment for the registration tax.
- The registration certificate (documento único automóvel).
- For vehicles older than four years, you’ll need the IPO (Inspecção Periódica Obrigatória) test certificate, which confirms the vehicle has passed its required inspections. The certificate should also include details of the next scheduled IPO inspection. This test is similar to the MOT in the UK and is a mandatory periodic inspection in Portugal.
- A sales or purchase contract is required, detailing the terms of the purchase, vehicle specifics, and the information of both the buyer and the seller. This contract serves as a legal record of the transaction.
- You can verify the validity and accuracy of all documents with the Portuguese Institute of Mobility and Transport (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes – IMT). Additionally, you can run a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check through various online VIN decoder services to review the vehicle’s accident history, mileage, and other important details.
Where to buy a used car in Portugal?
hose who prefer to buy car in portugal:
Car dealerships in Portugal
Portugal has a vast range of car dealerships, you will find that they sell both the new cars and used cars. Some of the dealerships offer only second hand vehicles, as well as some dealers have only deals in particular types of cars such as classic cars or vintage cars. The advantages of buying used cars portugal from dealers is that you may take out some risks from the purchasing.
Because dealers can take care of all your paperwork such as registration and they will make sure that this car has had a necessary IPO test, and also give a minimum one year warranty of that used vehicle. You can also ask for a vehicle report if you have any doubt or unsurely about anything in the vehicle. Dealerships often charge slightly higher prices because they offer comprehensive services, including maintenance, warranties, and support throughout the purchasing process.
Buying a used cars Portugal online
There are various websites where you can search for and buy used cars in Portugal. Some of the main ones are:
- Auto SAPO (in Portuguese)
- Autto
- BCA
- Guia do Automóvel
- StandVirtual
Buying used cars in Portugal from private owner
You can also buy your used car from a private seller in Portugal and save your money. Private sellers are willing to negotiate the price and if you are paying in cash in one go you might get a fantastic deal for your car. However, you don’t get the option of paying in installments. Additionally you won’t get a warranty from them and you are the one who has to take care of registration and all by yourself.
Private sellers are still required to provide essential paperwork, including the existing registration forms, the IPO report with the next inspection date (for cars over four years old), and the transfer of ownership form. It’s also a good idea to request a purchase agreement with details like the vehicle’s age, mileage, maintenance history, and number of previous owners. Make sure to gather this information before finalizing the purchase.
If a seller asks for a deposit while buy car portugal, it’s important to use an escrow account or a similar third-party holding service. This ensures a secure transaction for both the buyer and seller. For finding private sellers, you can explore the used car websites listed above, or discover more options through the resources provided here:
- Classified ads in local and national newspapers
- Auto magazines such as Turbo
- Membership sites such as ACP
- Local community notice boards for shop windows
- Community forums or social networks
- You can also find used cars at fairs and auctions, which are often advertised in local magazines and newspapers. These events provide a great opportunity to explore a variety of vehicles from different sellers.
How to register your car in Portugal?
In Portugal, all vehicles—whether new, used, or imported—must be officially registered with the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) to ensure legal compliance.Avoiding to complete this registration could lead authorities to take possession of the vehicle. If you make a purchase through a dealership, they will handle your registration process on your behalf.
Otherwise, you have to register your vehicle within the period of 60 days from the date of purchase. You can do this through the Institute of Registries and Notaries (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado – IRN).
You can register your car via online, at an IRN vehicle registry office, or at a citizen’s shop (Lojas do Cidadão) within Portugal. When you start this process, make sure to bring all the following documentation along with you (or send electronic copies if registering online):
- Your identification document, such as your passport
- Your NIF number, which is your tax identification number.
- You’ll need to provide proof of your residence in Portugal, such as a valid residence permit or documentation showing your address, to complete the vehicle registration process of buy car portugal.
- A completed and signed registration form or a transfer of ownership form if the vehicle is used (Requerimento de Registo Automóvel)
- An EU certificate of conformity or an equivalent safety certificate, especially if the vehicle originates from a non-EU country
- An IPO (Inspeção Periódica Obrigatória) vehicle inspection certificate if the car is older than four years. If an IPO inspection is necessary, you can locate a list of authorized inspection centers here.
You will receive your registration certificate (Documento Unico Automóvel – DUA), after you’ve registered and paid the registration fee.The registration certificate remains valid until you either sell the vehicle or decide to deregister it. This document is essential for maintaining legal ownership of the car in Portugal. Keep your DUA with you every time in your car dashboard along with your car insurance certificate.
Apart from some other European countries, it’s not needed to change your license plate if you’re moving to another region of Portugal. You will get further updated information about registering vehicles in Portugal on the government online portal.
Other Expenses when buy car Portugal
Excluding the initial cost of purchasing a vehicle, there are some additional costs to consider when you are buying a car in Portugal:
Registration fee: When you register your car, this is normally between €55 and €65.If you choose to register your vehicle online, you can save some money. Just be sure to complete the registration within 60 days of purchasing the car to avoid any penalties.
Taxes: One-time vehicle tax (Imposto Sobre Veículos – ISV) is required for new or imported cars. An annual circulation tax (Imposto Único de Circulação – IUC) renews license plates and permits road usage. Both are dependent on vehicle type and CO2 emissions.
Car insurance: Without mandatory liability insurance you shouldn’t drive a motorized vehicle in Portugal. Minimum third-party insurance is important and it is based on car value, insurance type, and the driver’s risk profile.
Maintenance: A €30 IPO inspection is obligatory for cars aged four years, repeated every two years for 4-8-year-old vehicles, and after that annually.
Fuel costs: In Portugal fluctuate and have followed global trends with increases in recent years. Prices can vary depending on the region and the type of fuel.
Toll roads: Motorway tolls must be paid, potentially up to nearly €25 on some routes. The charges may vary route to route.
Conclusion
Always remember to take your time and do thorough research before buying a used car in Portugal, to find the right vehicle for your needs and budget. If you’re uncertain about any part of the car buying process, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from trusted sources or professionals in the automotive industry to ensure you make informed decisions.
