Driving a Vehicle with Foreign License Plates in Italy: Key Regulations and Requirements

Law No. 238/2021 has amended the Italian Highway Code by introducing Article 93-bis, which governs the circulation of vehicles registered abroad in Italy. As a general rule, anyone residing in Italy (both EU and non-EU citizens) is required to register their foreign-registered vehicle in Italy within three months of acquiring Italian residency (Art. 93-bis, paragraph 1).

As of February 1, 2022, residents in Italy who own a vehicle with foreign plates can drive it for up to three months from the date of acquiring residency. This represents an extension from the previous 60-day limit. After the three-month period, the vehicle must either be registered in Italy or taken out of the country.

Use of Vehicles by Non-Owners Residing in Italy

The previous regulations were quite restrictive for residents in Italy using vehicles owned by individuals residing abroad. Since March 18, 2022, non-owners residing in Italy are allowed to use a foreign-plated vehicle, provided that the foreign registration certificate is accompanied by a document signed and dated by the vehicle owner. This document must specify the reason for use and the duration. Both documents must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

If the vehicle is used by a legal or natural person residing in Italy for more than 30 days in a calendar year, it is mandatory to register the vehicle in a new section of the Public Vehicle Registry (PRA), called the REVE — Register of Foreign Vehicles.

Professionals

The above provisions also apply to employees or self-employed workers who practice a profession in a neighboring or bordering country and drive a vehicle registered in that country. These individuals must register their vehicle within 60 days of acquiring ownership. Registered vehicles may also be driven by the family members living with these individuals, provided they are residents of Italy.

Cross-Border Workers

A significant update concerns Italian workers who are employed in neighboring states (known as “cross-border workers”). They are allowed to drive a foreign-registered vehicle but must register it with the PRA within 60 days of purchase. This new regulation removes the previous limitation that allowed them to drive only between home and work. Furthermore, the cross-border worker’s family members living with them may also use the vehicle, broadening its permitted usage.

Exemptions from the Regulation

Certain categories of people and vehicles are exempt from the new rules (Article 93-bis of Law No. 238/21), including:

• Residents of the municipality of Campione d’Italia.
• Civil and military personnel of public administrations serving abroad.
• Members of the armed forces and police on missions at international organizations.
• Residents in Italy driving vehicles registered in the Republic of San Marino, if they have an employment relationship with San Marino-based companies.

Penalties for Failure to Register

The new law imposes severe penalties for failure to comply with the registration deadlines (paragraphs 11 and 15 of Article 100, Law No. 238/21). These include:

• Failure to register within three months: a fine ranging from €400 to €1,600, with the vehicle registration document being confiscated.
• Failure to register the availability of the vehicle: a fine ranging from €712 to €3,558, with the confiscation of the registration document until the situation is rectified.

In cases of non-compliance with the deadlines, the vehicle may ultimately be confiscated.

To Sum Up

The updated regulations regarding the circulation of foreign-registered vehicles in Italy provide greater flexibility than before, but they also impose specific obligations for registration and documentation. To avoid fines and legal complications, it is essential to be aware of the new rules and ensure compliance with them.

With over thirty years of experience as a Global Mobility Expert and Expat Coach in Italy, I specialize in ensuring smooth transitions for both individual and corporate clients adapting to life in Italy. My comprehensive services include immigration and relocation assistance, Italian citizenship acquisition, spousal support, personalized coaching, and entrepreneur mentoring. I am dedicated to providing successful and fulfilling expatriate experiences in Italy. If you’re planning your move or facing challenges while living in Italy, I’m here to help. Feel free to email me directly at inquiry@damienofarrell.com for tailored advice.

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