By law, all vehicles must be routinely tested to ensure they meet German safety standards. After a car has been in use for three years, it must be tested every 24 months. The testing is carried out on behalf of the federal government by private organisations like TÜV. Consequently, the technical inspection is often colloquially referred to as a “TÜV”.

If you are importing a car, you will need to subject it to a TÜV test before you can legally drive it, and you may need to pay for modifications to ensure your car meets safety standards. If you are buying a car with a valid TÜV certificate, you do not need to have it re-tested, but you will need to take out your own car insurance policy and make sure you are paying vehicle tax.

What is tested during the TÜV?

During the TÜV, your car will be inspected to make sure that it conforms with regulations on road safety and environmental protection. The inspection typically consists of tests on:

6.1. Brake system
6.2 Steering system
6.3 Visibility
6.4 Lighting equipment & other parts of the electrical systems
6.5 Axles, wheels, tires, suspensions
6.6 Chassis, frame, structure; parts attached to it
6.7 Other equipment
6.8 Environmental Impact
6.9 Additional examinations on motor vehicles (commercial passenger transport)
6.10 Identification and classification of the vehicle

After the test, you will receive a full written report, outlining the results of the inspection and any causes for concern. You should keep this written report safe. If your car has passed, you will be issued with a round inspection sticker to display on your rear licence plate.

What happens if my car fails the TÜV?

If your car fails the test, you will be given one month to fix any problems. You then need to bring your car back for re-inspection (a small fee is payable). If you fail to submit your vehicle for re-inspection within one month, you will need to pay for a complete re-examination.

Where can I get a TÜV?

You can book a technical inspection through any mandated garage. Try searching “Hauptuntersuchung” and your location, or search for a “HU + AU” appointment on the IVS Malki website. You can often book online by providing your personal details (e.g. car make and model and driving licence number).

How much does the TÜV cost?

Depending on your location, the periodic technical inspection usually costs 80 to 100 euros for motorcycles and between 150 and 180 euros for cars and other vehicles, depending on weight. Bear in the mind that this is only the cost of having the inspection carried out – you will also need to fund any necessary repairs.

How do I know when my next TÜV is due?

The round inspection sticker is stamped with the date of your next inspection. Usually, the year is in the centre of the badge, and the month at the top (i.e. the 12 o’clock position). You can also opt for a reminder service from your garage.

US-Import

Do you have a US vehicle and would like to import it from USA to Germany and register it in Germany? Since 2024, IVS Malki have the authority to prepare reports for imported vehicles. With this mandatory individual inspection according to §21 StVZO you can then register your vehicle in Germany. The required one-off individual inspection according to §21 StVZO is not the recurring periodic technical inspection §29 StVZO.