France lockdown: what about car contrôle technique?
Garages will remain open but the government is advising people only go for essential reasons
Reader question: My car is due to get its contrôle technique (MOT). Can this be done during lockdown, and if it can which section of the exemption form (attestation) do I need to tick?
Short answer: It is still possible
Garages and vehicle repair services are among the list of businesses permitted to stay open during the lockdown.
It will therefore be possible to have your car pass a contrôle technique during the confinement period.
When you go, it is important to remember to fill out an exemption certificate (attestation de déplacement). There are two possible boxes on the form that could apply in this situation.
Car service specialist Dekra and the Fédération Nationale des Artisans de l'automobile recommend checking the second box on the form: "Déplacements pour effectuer des achats de fournitures nécessaires à l'activité professionnelle, des achats de première nécessité, des retraits de commandes et des livraisons à domicile".
While another car service specialist, Sécuritest, is recommending the seventh option: "Convocation judiciaire ou administrative et rendez-vous dans un service public".
The police, if they stop you, will probably accept either if you explain what you are doing.
The government should also grant a period of tolerance on contrôles technique - as it did in Spring - meaning that you can continue to drive your car even after it should have undergone a new MOT.
This is in order to encourage people to stay home as much as possible. More details should be announced on this shortly.
It is worth bearing in mind that travel between regions in France is now prohibited, so you will have to visit a garage in your area.
Buying a car during lockdown
Anyone who has already ordered a car from a dealership will be able to go and collect it, upon appointment. Private sales will not be allowed.
Customers who have an order should be contacted by the dealership to set up an appointment. When you go to collect the car, remember to fill out an exemption certificate (attestation de déplacement).
Showrooms, on the other hand, will be closed, so it will not be possible to go and view cars. It will still be possible to arrange purchases via the internet or by telephone.
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