Can I drive without doing the car's roadworthiness test?
No: the periodic roadworthiness test is mandatory. All vehicles must pass the revisione, the periodic check verifying safety and emissions. For new cars, the first test is done after 4 years from registration, then repeated every 2 years. It's done at the Motorizzazione Civile or at authorised garages. Driving with an expired test is banned: besides the fine, there's a ban on driving until the test is done, and in case of an accident the insurance can have consequences. The deadline is the month in which the last test (or registration) was done. It's best to check it in time and book before it expires.
📋 The rules
- The periodic roadworthiness test is mandatory
- New cars: first test after 4 years, then every 2 years
- Done at the Motorizzazione or authorised garages
- Expired test: ban on driving
- Checks the vehicle's safety and emissions
🔓 Exceptions
- Different periodicity for some categories (taxis, hire cars, heavy vehicles)
- Mopeds and motorcycles: their own deadlines
- Historic vehicles: specific rules
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Driving with an expired test carries an administrative sanction (fine) and a ban on continuing until the vehicle is tested; on repeat the consequences increase. An untested vehicle is considered not compliant: in case of an accident, the insurance could pursue recourse or dispute cover. To avoid problems, note the deadline (the month of the last test) and book the new test before it expires, at the Motorizzazione or an authorised garage. Keep the documentation proving the test on board.
📎 Official sources
- Motorizzazione Civile · Vehicle roadworthiness test →
- MIT · Periodic vehicle test →
- Normattiva · Highway Code (test, art. 80) →
❓ Frequently asked
How often is the car's test done?
For new cars, the first test is done after 4 years from registration. After that, the test must be repeated every 2 years. The deadline coincides with the month in which the last test was done or, for the first, registration.
Where can I do the test?
At the Motorizzazione Civile or at private garages authorised by the Ministry. Both issue the documentation proving the test result. It's best to book a little in advance, especially in busier periods.
What's the risk of driving with an expired test?
A fine and a ban on driving until you do the test. On repeat the consequences increase. Also, with an untested vehicle, in case of an accident the insurance can dispute cover or pursue recourse.
How do I know when the test expires?
The deadline is the month you did the last test (or registration, for the first). You can check it on the vehicle documents or the Motorist Portal. It's best to check it in time and book the new test before it expires.
Does the test also apply to motorbikes and scooters?
Yes, motorcycles and mopeds are also subject to a periodic test, with their own deadlines. Likewise, some vehicle categories (taxis, hire cars, heavy vehicles) have different periodicity. Check the specific deadlines for your vehicle.
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