International Technical Inspection Certificate (ITC): a mandatory document for traveling abroad

For Ukrainian drivers planning to travel abroad in their own car, the issue of the vehicle's technical condition comes to the fore. In addition to insurance, green cards, and vehicle documents, the requirement to have an international technical inspection certificate (ITC) is becoming increasingly relevant.

In this article, we will consider what this document is, in which cases it is mandatory, who can obtain it and how, as well as which countries require it.

What is an international technical inspection certificate?

This is an official document confirming that the vehicle meets technical requirements and is safe for operation. The certificate is issued on the basis of passing a state or accredited technical inspection in accordance with the UNECE Agreement 1997 (UN Agreement on Periodic Technical Inspection). Ukraine joined this agreement in 2022.

This certificate:

• is drawn up on a special international form;

• valid for 12 months;

• is mandatory when crossing the border of some countries, primarily EU countries.

In which cases is a certificate mandatory?

• When traveling abroad by personal transport (especially when transiting through EU countries).

• When temporarily importing a car to EU countries (for example, for a long vacation, study or work).

• When registering for the customs procedure of temporary import, where the technical condition of the car must be confirmed.

• For freight and passenger transportation, if the transport is operated internationally.

What vehicles are subject to the requirement?

According to international standards, a certificate is required for:

• Passenger cars older than 4 years;

• Commercial transport (trucks, minibuses, etc.);

• Buses;

• Trailers for freight transport;

• They may also inspect motorcycles – depending on country requirements.

Exceptions may be made in the case of new cars that have a certificate of conformity and were officially registered no more than 4 years ago.

Which countries require an international vehicle inspection?

• Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania — have clear rules for entry by foreign transport;

• Germany, Austria, France — are particularly demanding on the environmental and technical parameters of cars;

• Baltic countries (Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia) — may also require proof of residency during a long stay.

Where to get an international technical inspection in Ukraine?

The procedure can be performed by accredited service centers that have permission to conduct technical inspections with the issuance of an international certificate. It is important that the inspection results are recorded in a centralized database, and the certificate has an international number and protection.

West Auto Hub Company. Here you can quickly and efficiently undergo a technical inspection in accordance with international standards and immediately receive an official certificate. WAH specialists check all key technical parameters of the car, provide a detailed report and accompany the registration process, which is especially convenient for those who plan to travel abroad in the near future. An appointment for an inspection is made online or directly at the company's location.

Required documents to obtain a certificate:

• Passport and TIN of the car owner;

• Vehicle registration certificate;

• The car is in good condition;

• Insurance (may be required in some cases);

• Payment for inspection services and certificate issuance (from 1000 UAH).

Important nuances:

• Check the validity period — the certificate must be valid at the time of entry into the country;

• If the car fails the inspection, the certificate cannot be issued;

• At the border, they may check not only the presence of a certificate, but also the compliance of the VIN code, braking system, lights, etc.;

• Lack of a certificate may result in fines, refusal of entry, or even deportation of the car.

Result

An international technical inspection certificate is not a formality, but a document that really affects your mobility abroad. Make sure you have it in advance, especially if you plan to travel in your own car to EU countries. Timely technical inspection not only provides legal security, but also guarantees that your transport is in good condition and safe.