For gasoline and electric passenger cars, the first mandatory vehicle inspection is required after 4 years, then annually thereafter. Driving a diesel? The first inspection is required after just 3 years, followed by annual inspections. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about vehicle inspections so you know exactly where you stand.
How often is a vehicle inspection required for passenger cars?
For most passenger cars, inspections are required annually, but the starting point differs by fuel type. Gasoline and electric cars receive their first mandatory inspection after 4 years. Diesel cars must be inspected for the first time after 3 years. After that, both types follow the same rule: once a year.
This distinction is related to the emission characteristics of diesel engines and the additional checks that apply to them. A vehicle inspection covers not only the technical condition of your car, but also things like lighting, brakes, tires, steering, and emissions. The goal is simple: to ensure your car is safe to drive on public roads.
Want to know when your current inspection expires? It is listed on your vehicle registration document, or you can look it up on the RDW website using your license plate number.
Do different inspection rules apply to older cars?
No, the same inspection intervals apply to all regular passenger cars regardless of the vehicle’s age. Whether you drive a car that is 5 years old or 20 years old, you must return every year after the first inspection. There is no increased mandatory frequency for older vehicles.
What does change with older cars is the likelihood of failing the inspection. The older the car, the greater the chance that components have worn out or no longer meet inspection requirements. Think of worn brake discs, deteriorated rubber, rust on the bodywork, or an aging brake system. Preparing properly for your inspection can save you a great deal of time and money.
Do you own a classic car? Different rules apply. Vehicles more than 50 years old are exempt from the mandatory inspection. They do not need to be inspected annually, although the driver remains personally responsible for road safety.
What happens if your vehicle inspection expires?
If your vehicle inspection has expired, you are legally not permitted to drive the car on public roads. You risk a fine if you are stopped by the police. In addition, an expired inspection can cause issues with your car insurance: in some cases, the insurer may refuse to cover damages if it turns out the vehicle had not been inspected.
The fine for driving without a valid inspection can be substantial. You will also receive a notice requiring you to have the car inspected. If you fail to do so, your license plate can be suspended, meaning you are no longer permitted to use the vehicle on public roads at all.
It is therefore wise to keep a close eye on the expiration date. Set a reminder on your phone or in your calendar so you are never caught off guard. Through maintenance and repairs, you can also combine other service needs with your inspection appointment.
How far in advance can you schedule your vehicle inspection?
You may have your vehicle inspection carried out up to 3 months before the expiration date. The advantage is that the new inspection date is calculated from the original expiration date, not from the date of the inspection itself. So you do not lose any time by going early.
In practical terms, this means you can comfortably schedule an appointment in the month before your expiration date without shortening the validity period of your inspection. This is convenient if you know you have a busy schedule, or if you want to combine the inspection with a service appointment.
If the car fails the inspection, you will have time to have the identified defects repaired and resubmit the vehicle for inspection. A re-inspection is often cheaper than a full inspection, especially if the repairs are carried out promptly.
Where can you go for a vehicle inspection in Veldhoven?
For a vehicle inspection in Veldhoven, you can visit an approved inspection station. Not every garage is authorized to carry out inspections — this requires official accreditation from the RDW. Always verify that the garage you choose is actually authorized to perform inspections.
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with your vehicle inspection
At Autobedrijven Verdonk in Veldhoven, we carry out official vehicle inspections for all makes and models. Whether you drive a Renault, Peugeot, Citroën, Dacia, or any other brand, you have come to the right place. We work with certified inspection methods and advise you immediately if we identify anything that requires attention.
- Vehicle inspections for gasoline, diesel, and electric cars
- Immediate feedback on any defects, with honest advice on repairs
- Option to combine your inspection with a service appointment
- Transparent pricing, no surprises afterward
- Certified Renault dealer workshop, also for lease vehicles
Autobedrijven Verdonk has been a trusted name in the region for over 95 years. We know our customers by name and take the time to explain everything clearly, even if you know little about cars. Get in touch to schedule your vehicle inspection, or simply stop by in Veldhoven. Want to learn more about who we are? Read more about our history.