Vehicle Roadworthiness in Germany

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Vehicle Roadworthiness in Germany

Vehicle roadworthiness (Hauptuntersuchung or HU) tests are compulsory in Germany. Failure to comply or losing proof that the examinations have been carried out may result in a fine and points on the driving licence. It is the car owner's responsibility to make sure that the vehicle is tested when it is due.

A roadworthy test must be carried out every two years on vehicles over three years old. Vehicle roadworthiness tests (similar to the UK's MOT test) can only be carried out by authorised centres, either the TÜV (Technische Überwachungs-Verein), DEKRA in the new Federal States (formerly East Germany) or the GTÜ (Gesellschaft fuer Technische Überwachungand authorised garages.

• For information in English: Click here
• For details of current costs for all vehicle examinations: Click here

The technical safety test has two parts:

1. a main vehicle examination (Hauptuntersuchung or HU)which is based on the regulation § 29 StVZO
2. an exhaust gas emissions test (Abgasuntersuchung or AU) based on the regulation § 47a StVZO.

Taking the Main Vehicle Test (Hauptuntersuchung or HU)

Examinations can only be carried out by an authorised garage or test centre.

• To find the nearest authorised TÜV test centre: Click here
• Appointments can be made by telephone or online
• Tel: 0800 8838 8838
  Website
• To find the nearest DEKRA centre: Click here
• Tel: 018 052 099
• To find the nearest GTÜ test centre: Click here and use the search facility 

The following documents must be taken to the test:

• Car registration and ownership documents (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I und II)
• Proof of identity

A vehicle undergoes comprehensive testing to ensure that it is mechanically safe to drive and that the following are in proper working order:

• Tyres
• Lights
• Braking system
• Chassis and structure
• Fire safety
• Equipment
• Exhaust system
• Steering
• Full details of what the Hauptuntersuchung test involves: Click here

The following should also be in the car and may be checked:

• A warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Protective gloves
• The TÜV website also has a checklist for the test: Click here

Failing the test

If a vehicle fails the test it is vital that the repairs listed on the test paper are carried out as soon as possible. If the vehicle is submitted for retesting within one month then a reduced fee is payable for the second inspection. Failure to comply with this deadline means the vehicle will have to undergo another Hauptuntersuchung at full cost.

Proof of testing

When the vehicle has passed the test a circular plaque is issued which is valid for two years and must be displayed on the rear number plate of the vehicle. It shows the month and year when the next test is due.

• For a detailed description: Click here

Taking the Exhaust Emissions Test (Abgasuntersuchung or AU)

The Abgasuntersuchung or AU checks to ensure the vehicle conforms to statutory exhaust emission limits. The test is normally carried out at the same time as the main vehicle inspection. If the vehicle conforms to the limits then a test certificate is issued along with a hexagonal shape sticker. This must be stuck on the front licence plate of the vehicle. Both the certificate and sticker show when the next test is due.

Further Information

• AngloINFO INFOrmation page on Registering a Foreign Vehicle in Germany
• AngloINFO INFOrmation page on Driving in Germany
• AngloINFO INFOrmation page on Buying & Selling a Car in Germany
• The Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs (Bundesministerium für Verkehr, Bau und Stadtenwicklung, BMVBS)