International Technical Inspection: What It Is, Where to Pass It, Difference from Certification and Inspection at Official Centers
What is an International Technical Inspection? An international technical inspection is the process of checking a vehicle for compliance with international safety and environmental standards, which is required for its use abroad. In Ukraine, international technical inspection certificates (MSTO) are issued by accredited testing laboratories, such as OTK-Service. These certificates confirm that the vehicle has passed inspection and meets the necessary requirements for operation in other countries.
The international technical inspection includes checking elements such as the braking system, steering, lighting devices, exhaust emissions, and other key components of the vehicle. The MSTO certificate is mandatory for vehicles planning to participate in international transport or enter countries where such a document is legally required.
The procedure for passing an international technical inspection is regulated by Article 35 of the Law of Ukraine “On Road Traffic.” If the inspection result is positive, a certificate is issued, which is recognized in other countries that are part of international technical control agreements.
Documents Required for International Technical Inspection in Ukraine: To pass the international technical inspection for passenger cars in Ukraine, the following documents are required:
- Vehicle registration certificate (technical passport), which can be presented via the “Diia” app.
- An identity document of the vehicle owner (Ukrainian passport or ID card).
- A document proving the right to drive the vehicle if the owner is not present during the inspection.
- Unlike for commercial vehicles, insurance policies and tachograph inspection reports are typically not required for passenger cars during the international inspection.
International Technical Inspection vs. Certification:
- Vehicle Certification: According to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine’s resolution No. 607 (June 9, 2011), vehicle certification is the process of confirming that a vehicle complies with established Ukrainian standards and regulations. This certification is valid only within Ukraine and does not automatically apply to other countries. If a vehicle is exported from Ukraine, it may require re-certification to meet the legal requirements of the country it is being registered in.
- What is Checked in Technical Inspections but Not in Certification:
- Vehicle Condition: The technical inspection checks the current operating conditions of the vehicle, such as the state of the braking system, steering, suspension, lighting, tires, etc.
- Safety Compliance: The inspection verifies the functioning of safety systems like seat belts, airbags, and other components that need to be in working order for the vehicle to be roadworthy.
- Emission Levels: The vehicle’s emission levels are also tested to ensure they meet the environmental standards for vehicles in operation.
- What is Checked in Certification but Not in Technical Inspections:
- Compliance with Construction Standards: Certification involves checking the compliance of the vehicle’s construction, materials, and technical specifications with established standards and regulations. This is important for the initial registration of the vehicle, especially if it is being imported or modified.
- Compliance with Environmental and Technical Regulations: Certification ensures that the vehicle meets ecological and technical regulations, such as emission standards, before it is allowed for use in Ukraine.
- New Vehicles’ First Registration: Certification is mandatory for new vehicles before they are registered for the first time in Ukraine to ensure they meet Ukrainian standards.
Can a Service Book from an Official Service Replace International Technical Inspection?
No, a service book issued by an official service center cannot replace an international technical inspection certificate (MSTO). The international technical inspection is a mandatory and strictly regulated process, the results of which are recognized by other countries based on international agreements, such as the 1997 Vienna Convention.
The service book only shows the vehicle’s maintenance history and does not confirm that the vehicle meets international safety and environmental standards required for driving in other countries. The MSTO certificate includes the results of checks carried out by an accredited laboratory, confirming that the vehicle meets these standards.
Mandatory Technical Control in Ukraine
In Ukraine, mandatory technical inspections for passenger cars were abolished in 2011. This means that cars not used for commercial purposes do not need to undergo regular technical inspections. However, if you plan to travel abroad, for example, to Romania, it is important to note that technical inspections are a mandatory requirement there.
If your car has not passed the technical inspection and lacks the necessary certificate, you may face a fine in Romania. This is because local laws require all vehicles participating in road traffic, including those registered in other countries, to have a valid technical inspection.