Contrôle Technique Des Véhicules

Contrôle Technique: Keeping French Roads Safe

Contrôle Technique: The French MOT

The Contrôle Technique, often referred to as the French MOT (Ministry of Transport test), is a mandatory vehicle inspection that aims to ensure road safety and reduce environmental impact by identifying and rectifying faults in vehicles. It applies to most passenger cars (voitures particulières) and light commercial vehicles (véhicules utilitaires légers) older than four years.

Who, What, and When?

Any vehicle registered in France for more than four years must undergo its first Contrôle Technique. After the initial inspection, it’s required every two years. However, some specific vehicle types, such as taxis and ambulances, have different inspection schedules. The responsibility for arranging and paying for the inspection lies with the vehicle owner.

The Contrôle Technique is conducted by authorized inspection centers (centres de contrôle technique). These centers are privately owned but regulated by the state. The inspection covers a wide range of components and systems, including:

  • Braking system: Condition of brake discs, pads, and lines.
  • Steering: Functionality and play in the steering mechanism.
  • Suspension: Shock absorbers, springs, and associated components.
  • Lighting: Headlights, taillights, indicators, and their alignment.
  • Tires: Tread depth and overall condition.
  • Exhaust emissions: Measurement of pollutants to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Bodywork: General condition of the body, including corrosion.
  • Visibility: Windscreen condition and wiper functionality.

Inspection Outcomes

The inspection results in one of three outcomes:

  • Favorable (favorable): The vehicle passes the inspection, and the owner receives a sticker to display on the windshield. The next inspection date is indicated on the report.
  • Unfavorable with counter-visit (défavorable avec contre-visite): The vehicle fails the inspection due to identified faults that require repair. The owner has a limited time (usually two months) to rectify the issues and present the vehicle for a re-inspection (contre-visite) at the same center.
  • Unfavorable, serious faults (défavorable, défauts critiques): The vehicle fails the inspection due to serious safety concerns. The owner has until midnight of the inspection day to repair the critical faults. They will then need to arrange for a full re-inspection. The “serious fault” designation will be indicated on the CT and will be valid until the faults are fixed.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Driving a vehicle without a valid Contrôle Technique is an offense punishable by a fine. Moreover, in the event of an accident, insurance coverage may be compromised if the vehicle’s Contrôle Technique is not up-to-date. The police can request to see the Contrôle Technique certificate during traffic stops.

Importance

The Contrôle Technique plays a crucial role in ensuring road safety in France. By identifying and addressing potential mechanical and safety issues, it helps to reduce accidents and protect all road users. It also contributes to environmental protection by ensuring vehicles meet emission standards.