Can I buy a car in Italy even if I am not a resident?

Foreigners not residing in Italy are generally not allowed to purchase vehicles in the country, even if they own property or businesses in Italy. This rule is clear and is set out in the Italian Traffic Code.

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To legally purchase a car, you must have registered residence in an Italian commune. This applies to both new and used vehicles.

In addition to proof of residence, the buyer must present the fiscal Code (Italian tax code) and other documents which, without residence, are unlikely to be issued.

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Exceptions provided for by law

Two exceptions allow non-Italian residents to purchase a car:

• Italians registered with AIRE: Italian citizens residing abroad, registered with the Anagrafe degli Italiani Residenti all'Estero, can indicate an Italian domicile and purchase a vehicle even without formal residence in the country.EE Plate (Escursionisti Esteri): Non-resident foreigners can purchase cars with temporary license plates, valid for up to 12 months. These plates are intended for vehicles exported or temporarily used in Italy.

Aside from these exceptions, the purchase and registration process faces legal barriers. Transfer of ownership, for example, requires registration with the Public vehicle registration (PRA) and in Vehicle registration — steps that require residency.

Using a third party's car or bringing a car from abroad

You can drive a friend or family member's car for up to 30 days, provided the owner authorizes it and the insurance covers additional drivers. In Italy, insurance is tied to the vehicle, not the driver.

Those who choose to bring their own car from another country can use it temporarily. However, to keep the car for long periods or register it in Italy, residency remains a legal requirement.

The recommendation for non-residents is to seek alternatives such as long-term rentals, suggested by readers as a way to avoid bureaucracy and documentation costs.

For specific questions, it is recommended to consult the office directly. Vehicle registration local or the Automobile Club of Italy (ACI).