Since 1992, a regular inspection of all motor vehicles has been mandatory; this "Contrôle technique" is the French equivalent of the German TÜV. New vehicles must be presented for the first time after four years, then every two years. The rules for cars with a "carte grise collection" are now being amended.
A "carte grise collection" is issued to vehicles that are at least 30 years old and do not have a restricted driving license in France. Vehicles with a "Carte grise collection" that were put on the market before 1960 no longer have to pass a "Contrôle technique". The same applies to vehicles with a collection certificate that weigh more than 3.5 tons, even if they were put on the road after 1960. Another criterion for vehicles that were put on the road before 1960 and weigh less than 3.5 tons is that they are no longer produced today. In addition, they must remain in their original condition without significant changes to the specifications of their main components (keyword: originality).
Since 2010, vehicles that are more than 30 years old have only had to be tested every 5 years. This regulation is now being replaced. Historic vehicles with a collection certificate will therefore be spared future inspections.