Technical control is a legal requirement for all vehicles older than 4 years circulating on French territory. It will then have to be carried out every two years, as explained in art place of the government. It allows you to verify the correct functioning of the essential elements for safety and environmental protection.
But what if you forget to do the MOT on time? What are the consequences of an expired technical inspection and how to fix it? Here’s everything you need to know about it.
The dangers of an outdated technical control
An outdated technical inspection means that your vehicle has not had a regular equipment and performance check. This can pose risks to your safety and that of other road users. Indeed, a non-compliant vehicle can have technical faults (defective brakes, worn tyres, poorly adjusted lights) which can lead to accidents or breakdowns.
Furthermore, an expired technical inspection exposes you to administrative and criminal penalties in the event of a roadside inspection. According to the Highway Code drive with a the expired technical inspection constitutes a fourth category offence, punished with a fixed fine of 135 euros. It is reduced to €90 if it is paid within three days – or increased to €375 if it is not paid within 45 days.
| 📋#DGCCRFPpractice sheet |
Technical control of cars #automotive sector/s is mandatory to be able to drive on a road open to public traffic. Identify possible damage to #safety et al’#environment.
👉 pic.twitter.com/wIu58OTQhO— DGCCRF (@dgccrf) November 23, 2020
Furthermore, the police can withdraw your gray card and prohibit you from driving your vehicle until you have carried out the roadworthiness test. If your vehicle poses a road safety hazard, it could also be immobilized and impounded.
Solutions to avoid an obsolete technical control
To avoid these inconveniences, it is advisable to respect the timing of the technical inspection and to make an appointment with a qualified professional as soon as possible. The technical inspection must be carried out every 2 years for vehicles older than 4 years. If they were purchased new, the first technical inspection should take place after 4 years. The technical inspection must also be carried out before the sale of a used vehicle, unless it is less than 6 months old.
To remind you of the date of the next roadworthiness test, you can note the date of the last roadworthiness test in your diary. You can also consult the website of the Ministry of Ecological and Solidarity Transition, which allows you to verify the validity of your roadworthiness test (with your registration number).
If the deadline for the technical inspection is exceeded, you have one month to regularize your situation. During this period, you may still travel with your vehicle, provided it does not have any major or critical defects. If you were checked during this time, you will need to show proof of an appointment with a licensed professional.
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