Your vehicle's technical inspection

How often the inspection is required depends on the country of registration and the age of the vehicle. As a rule, a new passenger car enjoys a grace period of several years before its first test, after which the visits gradually become more frequent as the vehicle ages, typically ending up annual beyond a certain point.

The precise rhythm (first inspection, then intervals) differs depending on whether the vehicle is registered in the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Belgium or France. Specific rules may also apply on a sale, an import, a change of owner or for certain vehicle categories.

When importing or registering a vehicle for the first time in a new country, a valid inspection certificate is generally required to complete the file. We help you determine the deadline that applies to your situation and schedule the visit at the right time.

The inspection covers every component related to the vehicle's safety and compliance. Centres typically examine:

• lighting and signalling: headlights, position lights, indicators, front and rear fog lights, reversing lights and number-plate lighting;
• braking: effectiveness, balance and overall condition of the system;
• steering, running gear and suspension;
• tyres: wear, condition and compliance;
• visibility: windscreen, wipers, mirrors and the absence of obstructive films or stickers;
• bodywork, chassis and safety components;
• emissions and environmental aspects depending on the engine type.

At the end of the inspection, the centre issues a report. Where defects are found, a re-test may be required within a set period, allowing time to carry out the necessary repairs.

The technical inspection can be demanding. A few simple checks before the appointment greatly reduce the risk of a re-test:

• check that all lights work: headlights, indicators, front and rear fog lights, reversing lights and number-plate lighting;
• test the horn and top up the windscreen washer fluid;
• make sure the mandatory safety equipment is present (for example a high-visibility vest and a warning triangle, depending on the country);
• remove non-compliant tinted films on the front windows and any stickers that obstruct visibility;
• check the wear and condition of the tyres;
• confirm that the insurance and the road tax are up to date.

We also recommend presenting a clean vehicle, inside and out: a well-kept appearance inspires confidence and makes the inspection easier.

Beyond simply booking the appointment, our role is to smooth out the administrative side. We help you identify the relevant body in the country of registration, check that your file is complete and keep track of your deadlines so nothing takes you by surprise.

When you have several vehicles to present, or a schedule to coordinate with a registration, a sale or an import, we organise the steps in the right order so everything flows without interruption. The aim is to save you time and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.

Our support remains administrative: we do not replace the approved inspection centres, which alone are authorised to issue the official report.