You have purchased a 3-year-old car for your own personal use. The vehicle roadworthiness test certificate is new. What is the time limit until the next roadworthiness test must be performed?

In Germany, vehicles that are used for personal purposes must pass a roadworthiness test (Hauptuntersuchung or HU) every two years after the first test, which applies to cars that are not older than three years at the time of purchase, provided they pass the initial test.

Since you mentioned that the vehicle is three years old and the roadworthiness test certificate is new, it means the car is compliant at the moment of purchase. After this initial test, the vehicle is required to undergo another roadworthiness test within 24 months from the date of the last test.

This regulation ensures that vehicles on the road meet safety and emissions standards, aiming to reduce accidents and environmental impact. Therefore, understanding both the timing of the tests and the underlying rules governing them is crucial for your responsibilities as a vehicle owner in Germany.