Vehicle inspection in Portugal: Everything you need to know
Centro de Inspeção
Anyone travelling by car in Portugal must have their vehicle inspected regularly. This article explains how the process works, what deadlines apply and what you need to bear in mind during the inspection.
Die Inspeção Periódica Obrigatória“ (IPO)
In Portugal, there is the ‘Inspeção Periódica Obrigatória’ (IPO). Every car registered in Portugal must pass this test. The first inspection takes place four years after initial registration, then every two years. From the tenth year after initial registration, the check is due annually.
The inspection takes place at a so-called ‘Centro de Inspeção’. These are testing centres certified by the Institute for Mobility and Transport (IMT).
If you want to avoid long waiting times, you can make an appointment online or by telephone at the testing centre of your choice.
Ablauf der Fahrzeugprüfung
Brakes, lights, exhaust emissions, steering, tyres and bodywork are checked, as well as the presence of safety vests and warning triangles. Depending on the type of vehicle, the cost is usually between 30 and 50 euros.
Once the vehicle has passed the test, it is issued with a green certificate. The green ‘Veículo Inspecionado’ certificate can be detached and displayed prominently on the windscreen. If this is not done, the document must be kept in the vehicle at all times.
If the vehicle fails the test, a red certificate with a list of defects is issued. You have 14 days to rectify all defects before you have to return to the Centro de Inspeção with the vehicle.
What documents are required?
Vehicle registration document („Documento Único Automóvel“)
Last inspection report
Consequences of failure to comply
Anyone who misses the deadlines risks fines and, in the worst case, the vehicle being taken off the road.
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