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Circulation Authorization: DGT doctrinal evolution

How the DGT's position on this topic has evolved, and the rulings it rests on.

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How the DGT's position has evolved

Settled doctrine High confidence 11 rulings · 2015–2023

Current position

The use of subsidized diesel is prohibited in engines of devices authorized to circulate on public roads or land, except for tractors and agricultural machinery intended for agricultural activities. Special vehicles may use it if they do not have a circulation authorization or if they have lost it due to annulment, revocation, or deregistration in the DGT Registry. Ordinary vehicles cannot use this fuel under any circumstances.

The DGT's position remains constant throughout the analyzed sequence. The criterion focuses on the objective configuration of the device and the absence of effective authorization to circulate on public roads. No changes in the interpretation of the rule have been observed over the years.

Analysis based on 11 of 11 rulings with a stated position. Updated 27 September 2026.

Rulings on this topic

11
V0312-23 17 Feb 2023

Subsidised diesel cannot be used in ordinary or authorised special vehicles

SG de Impuestos Especiales y de Tributos sobre el Comercio Exterior y sobre el Medio Ambiente
gasóleo bonificadoimpuesto sobre hidrocarburosvehículos especialesvehículos ordinariosautorización de circulación Ley 38/1992, de 28 de diciembre, de Impuestos EspecialesReal Decreto 2822/1998, de 23 de diciembre
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual
V0897-22 27 Apr 2022

Use of subsidised diesel in agricultural tractors no longer authorised for road use

SG de Impuestos Especiales y de Tributos sobre el Comercio Exterior y sobre el Medio Ambiente
gasóleo bonificadovehículo especialbaja en el registrotipo impositivo reducidotrazadores y marcadores Ley 38/1992 de Impuestos EspecialesReal Decreto 2822/1998, Reglamento General de Vehículos
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual
V3424-20 26 Nov 2020

Use of subsidised diesel in special vehicles without authorisation to travel on public roads

SG de Impuestos Especiales y de Tributos sobre el Comercio Exterior y sobre el Medio Ambiente
gasóleo bonificadovehículos especialestipo impositivo reducidoautorización de circulaciónimpuestos especiales Ley 38/1992 de Impuestos EspecialesReal Decreto 2822/1998, Reglamento General de Vehículos
Affects CompanyExpat · Non-residentIndividual
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