Do France’s new contrôle technique rules apply to licence-free cars?
We look at whether the new requirement for two-wheeler vehicles extends to these minicars, and whether failure to comply results in a fine
Licence-free cars with 125cm3 engines will be subject to contrôle technique requirements
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Reader Question: Are licence-free cars included in France’s new contrôle technique requirement? If so, will there be a fine for those who fail to put their vehicle through the test?
Last week, the French government announced that two and four-wheeled vehicles of more than 125cm3 would be required to undergo contrôle technique roadworthiness tests from October 1, rather than January 1, 2023.
Read more:Motorbikes in France will need a contrôle technique from October 1
This also applies to licence-free cars, as long as they have engines of 125cm3 or more.
Government advisory body le Conseil d’État explained this decision by stating that the drivers of these vehicles – as well as motorbikes, mopeds and quad bikes – “are 22 times more at risk of falling victim to a fatal accident than the driver of a light-duty vehicle like a car or van.
“This risk is lessened in states where contrôle technique requirements have been put in place already: 16 times in Germany and 17 times in Spain.”
Those who fail to put their vehicle through a roadworthiness test when required could face a fine of €135 and risk being prevented from driving it.
However, it is thought that a grace period may be introduced to allow drivers and riders to get used to the new rules.
The tests are estimated to cost between €50 and €70.
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