Owners of passenger cars and motorcycles often know they must undergo a roadworthiness test in clearly defined situations. This includes when re-registering with the traffic police, when ownership changes, and when the vehicle is older than four years. The test is also required if the design is altered, if main components are replaced, or if the vehicle is used to transport passengers or operates as a commercial vehicle.
Many do not realize that a technical inspection can be needed when traveling to another country. Not every nation enforces this in the same way. For instance, some Latvian border guards frequently request a current diagnostic report from travelers.
If a vehicle fails the inspection, the driver must return, repeat the test, and try again, which is not convenient. Some owners, especially those with brand-new cars, question why the technical check was not waived as expected.
Expert opinion
Sergey Smirnov, lawyer:
— Russia is a party to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968. This international treaty commits signatory countries to safeguard road safety, which includes monitoring vehicle condition through regular inspections.
However, the treaty makes clear that mandatory inspections and checkpoints apply primarily to vehicles owned by organizations. In practice, this refers to commercial fleets and enterprises involved in passenger or goods transport. In other words, for passenger cars operated by individuals, the inspection can be voluntary as it has been in some cases.
Regarding restrictions on entry without inspection to other states, many European countries, especially the Baltic states, aim to limit traffic between Russia and EU member states by enforcing stricter controls.
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In the case of Latvia, the current situation is restrictive for Russians. Visa issuance to Russian citizens has been paused, and entry for Russian nationals, including those with Schengen visas issued by other EU countries, is barred.