Registration

Updated : 12/2012

Formalities and documents

How often must vehicles undergo roadworthiness tests in Germany?

General inspection: every two years
emissions testing: possibly each year, depending on type and age of vehicle

Must a roadworthiness test be conducted each time a vehicle changes owners?

No.

Do the German authorities require a roadworthiness test when a new resident from another EU/EFTA country registers their car?

Yes – either you submit your car for a roadworthiness test, or you submit a certificate of conformity ("EWG-Übereinstimmungsbescheinigung/COC-Bescheinigung") (compulsory for cars built after 2000).

What does a roadworthiness test Germany typically consist of?

Checklist of 160 items, (relating to vehicle chassis, equipment, light, brakes, wheels and tyres, exhaust, etc.)
Tests can be performed by: TÜV and DEKRA
On passing the test, the vehicle owner receives documents and a stamp ("Fahrzeugschein"); the car gets a new mark on the licence plate.

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