Hauptuntersuchung (HU) — universally called “the TÜV” — is Germany’s compulsory periodic vehicle inspection. Worth knowing: TÜV is only one of the approved organisations. DEKRA, GTÜ and KÜS hold the same authority and are often cheaper.
How often?
- New cars: first inspection after 36 months
- Thereafter: every 24 months
Your due date is on the coloured sticker on the rear number plate: the number at the centre is the month, the number at the top position is the year.
Cost in 2026
Prices rose on 1 January 2026. For a passenger car:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| HU + AU (with emissions test) | €143 – 162 |
| HU only (no emissions test) | €90 – 110 |
Prices vary by state and provider. DEKRA and GTÜ are usually cheaper than TÜV — get more than one quote.
If you miss the deadline
- Up to 2 months late: generally a warning.
- More than 2 months: an extended inspection (vertiefte Hauptuntersuchung) applies with a 20% surcharge — roughly €25–35 extra. You also risk a fine and a point in Flensburg.
Insurance warning: if you have an accident with an overdue inspection, your comprehensive insurer may reduce or refuse payment. Treat the deadline as a risk issue, not a cost issue.
The three possible outcomes
| Result | What it means |
|---|---|
| Geringe Mängel (minor defects) | You get the sticker but should repair the fault. |
| Erhebliche Mängel (significant defects) | No sticker. Repair and return for re-inspection (Nachuntersuchung) within 1 month. |
| Gefährliche Mängel (dangerous defects) | You may not drive the car. It can be taken off the road. |
Check these yourself first
Most failures are for simple, cheap reasons:
- Bulbs — headlights, brake lights, indicators, plate light (the most common defect of all)
- Tyre tread — legal minimum is 1.6 mm
- Brake pads and discs
- Wiper blades and washer fluid
- Windscreen cracks — an automatic fail if within the driver’s field of view
- Exhaust leaks and corrosion
- First aid kit (in date), high-vis vest and warning triangle
Replacing bulbs and wipers beforehand saves both the re-inspection fee and a second appointment.