🔧 Am I allowed to drive with an expired TÜV?

With conditions

Quick answer

Technically yes, but risky. The roadworthiness test (HU/"TÜV") must be done regularly (§29). There is no official grace period — once overdue, you shouldn't really drive. In practice, though, under 2 months over there is no fine. After that it rises with time: 2–4 months €15, 4–8 months €25, over 8 months €60 and 1 point. From 2 months over, the test centre runs an extended inspection (about 20% surcharge).

📋 The rules

The inspection is mandatory — for cars every 24 months (new cars first after 36)
There is no official grace period; legally the vehicle is overdue
Fine only from 2 months over
2–4 months: €15 · 4–8 months: €25 · over 8 months: €60 + 1 point
From 2 months over: extended inspection with ~20% higher fees
Vehicle defects are penalised separately, regardless of the inspection date

🔓 Exceptions

Under 2 months over: no fine (but not a real "permission")
Seasonal or deregistered vehicles: inspection duty pauses accordingly
Classic cars with an H-plate: their own inspection intervals

⚠️ Penalties & fines

Fine by overrun: €15 / €25 / €60 + 1 point. In a crash with a clearly overdue inspection, the insurer may reduce its payout if a technical defect contributed. If a check finds serious defects, a no-further-driving order and extra fines loom.

📎 Official sources

Last verified: 2026-06-20

❓ Frequently asked

How long can I overrun the TÜV?

There is no official grace period. In practice a fine only applies from two months over. Still, don't postpone it — with defects or a crash it can get expensive.

What does an overdue TÜV cost?

2 to 4 months: €15. 4 to 8 months: €25. Over 8 months: €60 and a point in Flensburg. From two months over an extended inspection is also due, costing about 20% more.

Will I have trouble with my insurer?

In a crash the insurer can reduce its payout if a technical defect contributed and the vehicle was overdue. With a valid inspection you're on the safe side.

Can I still drive to the test centre?

Yes, you may drive to present the car at the test centre. But if the police find serious defects during a check, they can forbid you to drive on — regardless of the inspection date.

Does this also cover the emissions test?

The emissions test (AU) is part of the inspection and is checked together. Overrunning the inspection also affects the AU. Emission-value defects are flagged separately.

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