Why did the roadworthiness legislation need to be revised?

Unsafe vehicles are still present on EU roads, causing accidents. Some vehicle defects go undetected as they are not included in the periodic technical inspection (PTI) or because testing is not mandatory.

Current testing methods have not kept pace with new technologies like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and electric vehicles. There is also insufficient control of emissions and noise, as some PTI tests are not sensitive enough to detect emissions above legal limits.

Regarding EU cross-border traffic, current rules are ineffective. Some vehicle data is unavailable or outdated in national registers, hindering enforcement of road safety offenses. There is insufficient exchange of information between Member States on vehicle mileage, which could help detect and prevent odometer fraud. To enable digitalization, the rules need to be amended.

What are the key elements of the revision?

New test methods, extended scope

• Adapt PTI to electric vehicles and new test items for electronic safety systems.
• New emission test methods for ultrafine particles and nitrogen oxides.
• Annual emissions testing for light commercial vehicles.
• NO_x particle and noise measurement via remote sensing in roadside inspections.
• Recording of odometer readings in national databases.
• Mandatory PTI for motorcycles over 125 cm³.
• Mandatory inspection of cargo securing at roadside inspections.
• Mandatory annual PTIs for cars and vans older than 10 years.

Data governance, digitalization, vehicle registers

• Digitalization of the inspection and registration document.
• Interconnecting national vehicle registers and extending harmonized vehicle data.
• Requirement that a Member State recognizes a PTI certificate from another Member State for six months.
• Data governance: defining procedures and access means to vehicle technical information by testing centers free of charge.

What are the main benefits for citizens/consumers?

All citizens will benefit from improved road safety. The revision will save lives and reduce injuries: between 2026 and 2050, an estimated 7,000 lives will be saved, and 65,000 serious injuries will be avoided. It will contribute to a healthier environment by reducing harmful emissions. Consumers will be better protected against fraud when purchasing used vehicles. The revision will also bring other benefits such as digitalization and improved information exchange.

What are the main benefits for national authorities?

Several measures will reduce administrative burden and yield cost savings. Electronic inspection certificates should become mandatory, gradually replacing the paper format. Digitalizing procedures and interconnecting national registers are expected to bring cost savings.

Why has the Commission proposed more frequent (annual) testing of older cars and vans?

Older vehicles are prone to more frequent breakdowns and are more often involved in accidents. Inspecting older cars annually can make a significant difference, especially in terms of safety. Annual tests in 11 Member States are expected to reduce fatalities and injuries by 1%.

Why is the Commission proposing more stringent requirements for the periodic technical inspection of motorcycles and L-category vehicles?

Regular testing of motorcycles positively impacts road safety. The Commission has proposed removing the current opt-out possibility and introducing mandatory PTI for motorcycles above 125 cm³.

What solutions does the Commission propose to address odometer fraud?

To reduce fraud, Member States will have to establish national databases for odometer readings. These readings must be recorded whenever the vehicle is serviced or repaired.

Will the proposal allow for mutual recognition of PTI certificates across the EU?

Under current rules, PTI certificates from another Member State must be recognized if the certificate is still valid. The current proposal introduces the possibility for inspections in another Member State.

What are the changes regarding emission testing?

The experience with PN testing in Member States has yielded positive results. Test requirements will be based on procedures that allow for quick and simple tests. NO_x tests for light and heavy vehicles will also be required.

Why is the scope of PTI not extended to mopeds?

The testing of mopeds is best left for Member States to regulate. Mopeds are less prone to serious accidents. The cost-benefit ratio can vary significantly depending on the local context.