The accreditation framework for technical inspection operators is undergoing a notable shift as responsibility moves from car insurers to a central federal authority. This transition could influence how much drivers pay for diagnostic services and how quickly inspections are completed, as reported by industry observers.
In 2020, a bill proposed by Senator Andrey Kutepov aimed to transfer the authority to accredit maintenance operators away from the Russian Association of Motor Insurers to the Federal Accreditation Service. Accreditation in this context means validating an operator’s qualifications, including access to necessary equipment, suitable facilities, and competent personnel. The underlying idea is that a state body might conduct these verifications more consistently and transparently than a non governmental association, potentially setting clearer benchmarks and standardized practices for the industry.
Industry observers cited by the publication warn that moving accreditation duties to a state body could lengthen the time required for the process and raise the costs of obtaining accreditation. They also warn that the change might reduce external oversight of operator activities, potentially affecting the quality and reliability of inspections. Such concerns underscore the tension between regulatory centralization and the need for efficiency in a system that touches many vehicle owners and service providers.
Earlier reports suggested the government approved a roadmap for reform of the technical inspection system for 2022–2023. Vehicle owners who still need to complete mandatory inspections have expressed a desire for a streamlined process that reduces bureaucracy while maintaining safety standards. The current discussions reflect a broader debate about how best to balance regulatory rigor with practical convenience for drivers and service providers, all while preserving public road safety and trust in the inspection system.
As discussions on reform continue, stakeholders stress the importance of clear accreditation criteria, transparent methods for evaluating operator performance, and predictable timelines for the inspection process. The overarching goal remains to safeguard the integrity of vehicle safety checks while ensuring that both operators and drivers can navigate the system with greater confidence and efficiency. While the exact regulatory form has yet to be finalized, the move toward a centralized, state managed accreditation framework signals a significant evolution in how technical inspections are governed in the country. This change could influence the cost structure and administrative burden faced by the industry and its customers, with ongoing monitoring and revision anticipated as implementation unfolds, according to Kommersant.