All vehicles registered in Sweden must pass a mandatory roadworthiness inspection (kontrollbesiktning) at approved testing stations (Bilprovningen or approved competitors). This ensures vehicles on Swedish roads meet safety and emissions standards.
When Must You Inspect
The inspection frequency depends on the vehicle’s age and type. Private cars: first inspection after 3 years, second after 5 years, then annually from year 6 onward. The deadline is based on the last digit of the registration year. Inspecting late attracts a fine — the grace period is one month after the due date.
What Is Checked
Inspectors check brakes, steering, lights, tyres, bodywork (for rust compromising structure), windscreen, exhaust emissions, undercarriage, seatbelts, and all safety-critical systems. A vehicle can receive a pass, a pass with remarks (anmärkning — minor issues to address), or a fail requiring immediate repair and re-inspection.
Consequences of Failing
A failed vehicle must be re-inspected within a set period. Driving a vehicle that has been flagged as not roadworthy can invalidate your insurance in the event of a collision.
Exam tip: Besiktning is compulsory — not optional. Driving without a valid inspection result is an offence. Check your vehicle’s due date in the Transportstyrelsen database using your registration number.