Technical Inspection in Belgium: When is it Mandatory?
Whether you're preparing to sell your vehicle or need to complete your periodic inspection, understanding the technical inspection rules helps you avoid unpleasant surprises. Here's everything you need to know to pass this step stress-free.
Used Car Inspection vs Periodic Inspection: What's the Difference?
Two types of inspections exist in Belgium, each with its own specificities:
The Used Car Inspection (required for sales)
This inspection is mandatory when selling a used vehicle. It must be completed before registering the vehicle in the new owner's name. Its purpose: to inform the buyer of the vehicle's actual technical condition.
⚠️ Important: Without a valid used car inspection, you cannot register the vehicle in the new owner's name. This is a prerequisite for the sale.The Periodic Inspection (regularly required)
All vehicles must undergo periodic technical inspection according to a schedule based on the vehicle's age:
- First inspection: between the 3rd and 4th year after initial registration
- Afterward: annually until the 10th year
- After 10 years: every 6 months
Which Vehicles are Affected?
Technical inspection (used or periodic) applies to:
- Private cars (tourism)
- Light commercial vehicles (up to 3.5 tons)
- Campers and caravans
- Trailers over 750 kg
Motorcycles and scooters are excluded from mandatory technical inspection in Belgium (unless major modification or imported registration).
Documents Required for Inspection
Prepare these documents before your appointment at the inspection center:
- Vehicle registration certificate (most recent received)
- Latest technical inspection certificate (if applicable)
- Certificate of conformity (COC) - proves vehicle approval
- Insurance document - proof of valid vehicle insurance
- Identification report (for campers and light commercial vehicles)
If you don't have your registration certificate
In case of theft, loss or destruction of the certificate:
- Report the loss to the police and obtain an involuntary dispossession certificate
- Send a duplicate request to the DIV with this certificate
- Present the dispossession certificate at the inspection center while waiting for the duplicate
Where to get your technical inspection in Belgium?
Technical inspection centers are located throughout Belgium. Find below an interactive map of the main approved centers by region.
Equipment to Bring
Present your vehicle completely empty, as if for a sale. Remember to bring:
- Both vehicle keys (main and spare)
- Service book
- Fire extinguisher (check expiration date)
- First aid kit
- Jack and lug wrench (for spare tire)
Full Inspection or Visual Inspection: Which to Choose?
Depending on your situation, you can opt for two types of inspection:
The Full Inspection (standard)
This is the most common inspection. It includes:
- Brake check with brake tester
- Exhaust emissions control
- Suspension test
- Headlight alignment check
- Visual inspection of general vehicle condition
Duration: approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
The Visual Inspection (lightened)
A faster inspection is possible if your vehicle meets these conditions:
- Last full inspection passed less than 2 months ago (Belgium or EU)
- Green inspection certificate still valid
In this case, only exhaust emissions, suspension, and lights are visually inspected. Brakes are still tested with the brake tester.
Attention: If the visual inspection reveals defects, a full inspection will be mandatory.
What Happens After the Inspection?
If the Inspection is Passed
You receive:
- Green inspection certificate: valid for 2 months for registration
- Used car report (for a sale): describes the vehicle's technical condition, valid for 2 months
- Registration request: to be sent to the DIV via the new owner's insurance (for a sale)
In Case of Failures
If your vehicle has defects:
- Minor defects: inspection passed, but repair recommended
- Major defects: re-inspection mandatory within 14 days
- Critical defects: vehicle cannot be driven until repaired
How Much Does Technical Inspection Cost?
| Type of Inspection | Indicative Price |
|---|---|
| Full technical inspection (petrol) | 40€ - 55€ |
| Full technical inspection (diesel) | 45€ - 60€ |
| Visual inspection | 25€ - 35€ |
| Re-inspection (after repairs) | 15€ - 25€ |
Prices vary by inspection center. Request a quote before making an appointment.
Selling Your Vehicle: The Complete Procedure
Step 1: The Used Car Inspection
Complete the used car inspection before the sale. The obtained inspection report will serve as the basis for negotiation with the buyer.
Step 2: Prepare the Sale Documents
- Registration certificate (part 1 to keep, part 2 to give to buyer)
- Valid inspection report
- Service book
- Certificate of conformity (if available)
- Recent repair invoices
Step 3: Declaration to the DIV
The buyer has 15 days to register the vehicle in their name. To do this, they must:
- Take out insurance in the new owner's name
- Send the registration request to the DIV
- Provide the inspection report and inspection certificate
Step 4: New License Plates
The buyer must order new license plates with the new number. As the seller, you must return your old plates to the DIV or destroy them (for recent plates).
💡 Clic Plaque Tip: If you're buying a used vehicle, remember to check the condition of the license plates. Damaged or illegible plates can result in a 116€ fine. Order your approved plates in 5 minutes on Clic Plaque.Technical Inspection FAQ
How long is a used car inspection valid?
The inspection report and inspection certificate are valid for 2 months for registration. After this period, a new inspection is required.
Can I sell a car without technical inspection?
No, the used car inspection is mandatory for any used vehicle sale in Belgium. Without this document, the buyer cannot register the vehicle.
What if my vehicle fails the inspection?
You have 14 days to make the necessary repairs and pass a re-inspection. If the failures are critical, the vehicle cannot be driven until repaired.
Is technical inspection mandatory for classic vehicles?
Classic vehicles (over 25 years) benefit from a lighter regime but must still undergo an adapted technical inspection.
Where can I get my technical inspection?
Go to an approved technical inspection center by the Walloon Region, Brussels, or Flanders depending on your residence. Autosur, DEKRA centers, or independent centers are approved.