IN BRIEF
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Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become mandatory for many motorized two-wheelers, marking a turning point in road safety. After a year of implementation, it’s time to take stock of this system: how many vehicles have been inspected, who is affected, and what are the exemptions? This article provides a clear and concise overview of the current rules and the steps to follow by 2025.
Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become a necessary step for many motorized two-wheelers. A year after this implementation, it’s essential to take stock. How many vehicles have been inspected? What types of motorcycles are affected? What exemptions exist? This article guides you through the key points of motorcycle technical inspections in 2025.
Benefits
The technical inspection offers several undeniable benefits for motorcyclists. First, it helps to improve safety on the roads. By systematically checking essential motorcycle components, this system helps reduce the risks of accidents related to mechanical failures.
Additionally, by establishing inspection criteria, it promotes a collective awareness among motorcyclists about the importance of regular maintenance of their vehicle. Furthermore, having a valid technical inspection is now a mandatory requirement when selling a motorcycle over five years old to an individual, providing added safety for buyers.
Disadvantages
Despite its many advantages, the technical inspection also raises some disadvantages. First, the process can be perceived as an additional financial burden for motorcyclists. Indeed, the cost of the technical inspection can strain the budgets of two-wheeler owners, especially during difficult economic times.
Moreover, the risk of major or critical failures can lead to the immediate immobilization of the vehicle, which can frustrate users who depend on their motorcycle daily. Exemptions for certain types of motorcycles, such as enduro and trial models, may also raise questions about the fairness of this system. Some categories of motorcyclists may feel disadvantaged by these new regulations.
Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become a requirement for many motorized two-wheelers. With a year of hindsight, it is essential to draw a comprehensive assessment of the situation. What are the categories of motorcycles concerned? What key figures reveal the extent of this measure? How does the inspection proceed and what are the possible exemptions for certain riders? Here is a detailed overview of what you need to know about motorcycle technical inspections in 2025.
Key figures on technical inspections
Approximately one million vehicles in category L have been inspected since the implementation of this obligation. According to data provided by MOBILIANS, the figures are revealing:
- L1 : Mopeds 2 wheels ≤50cc – 90,762 inspections (9.10 % of the total)
- L3 : Motorcycles >50cc – 730,150 inspections (73.24 % of the total)
- L5 : Motorized tricycles – 24,182 inspections (2.43 % of the total)
Moreover, the rate of re-inspections has varied by category, with particularly interesting data to better understand the technical condition of two-wheeler vehicles on the road.
Who is affected by the technical inspection?
The technical inspection applies to vehicles in category L, including:
- L1e / L2e: mopeds 2 or 3 wheels ≤ 50cc
- L3e / L4e: motorcycles 2 wheels or with sidecar
- L5e: motorized tricycles
Each of them is subject to precise checks to ensure the safety of road users.
Exemptions for certain riders
Enduro and trial motorcycles that are homologated are exempt from inspection, provided that the owner holds a valid FFM license. If you are licensed and riding a homologated enduro or trial, you are exempt from the obligations of the technical inspection.
Schedule of mandatory inspections
For motorcycles, the first inspection is required 5 years after the first registration. A subsequent inspection is then to be carried out every 3 years. Here is the schedule to remember:
- Before January 1, 2017: inspection between April 15 and December 31, 2024
- 2017 to 2019: inspection in 2025
- 2020 to 2021: inspection in 2026
This information is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is compliant.
The sound test: an essential postponement
Initially scheduled for April 2025, the sound level test has been postponed to July 1, 2025. This provides you with extra time to ensure that your exhaust system meets the required standards.
Sale of motorcycles and associated obligations
Since 2024, the sale of a motorcycle over 5 years must be accompanied by a valid technical inspection of less than 6 months for an individual. This is essential to guarantee the safety of the buyer.
Where to carry out the technical inspection?
Any vehicle can be inspected at any approved center. Inspections are carried out without dismantling, except to access certain components like the chassis number.
For more detailed information, you can consult the following resources:
Autolisa,
Pyramide Motos,
Big Ben Motorcycle,
Minier Avocat.
Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become mandatory for many motorized two-wheelers. A year after its implementation, a review of the inspections carried out and the regulations in force is necessary. In this article, we will explore the number of vehicles inspected, the categories concerned, the exemptions, and the practical details to know.
The assessment after one year of technical inspection application
Since its introduction, approximately one million vehicles in category L have been inspected. In 2024, the figures were distributed as follows:
- L1 : Mopeds 2 wheels ≤50cc: 90,762 inspections
- L2 : Tricycles 3 wheels: 1,785 inspections
- L3 : Motorcycles >50cc: 730,150 inspections
- L4 : Motorcycles with sidecar: 2,525 inspections
- L5 : Motorized tricycles: 24,182 inspections
- L6 : Light quadricycles: 43,534 inspections
- L7 : Heavy quadricycles: 30,251 inspections
The rate of major failures varies by category, but category L3 (motorcycles >50cc) has a rate of re-inspections of 9.44%.
Who is affected by the technical inspection?
The technical inspection applies to vehicles in category L, including:
- L1e / L2e: mopeds 2 or 3 wheels ≤ 50cc
- L3e / L4e: motorcycles 2 wheels or with sidecar
- L5e: motorized tricycles
- L6e / L7e: quads and utility vehicles
Exemption for licensed enduro riders
Good news for enduro and trial enthusiasts: homologated motorcycles are exempt from inspection if the owner has a valid FFM license. It is crucial to present the registration certificate and the current license during a potential control on public roads.
Calendar of technical inspections
Unlike cars, the motorcycles have a different schedule for their technical inspections:
- 1st mandatory inspection: 5 years after first registration
- Subsequent inspections: every 3 years
For any motorcycle registered before January 1, 2017, the technical inspection must be carried out between April 15 and December 31, 2024.
The sound level test
Originally planned for April 2025, the sound level test has been postponed to July 1, 2025. This will provide a little margin if your exhaust system is slightly noisy. In case of an unfavorable inspection, specific measures apply:
- Letter S: major failure, 2 months to correct
- Letter R: critical failure, immediate immobilization
Obligations when selling a motorcycle
Since 2024, when selling a motorcycle over 5 years, it is imperative to provide a valid technical inspection dated less than 6 months if sold to an individual. However, if sold to a professional, no inspection is required.
Where to carry out the technical inspection?
Technical inspections must be carried out in any approved center. The checks are done without dismantling, except for specific elements such as the chassis number. Always remember to bring the vehicle registration certificate to facilitate the procedure.
For more information on motorcycle technical inspections, you can consult additional resources: What to do after buying your first motorcycle, Everything you need to know to be compliant, and How to take the handlebars of a motorcycle in France.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of entry into force | April 15, 2024 |
| Vehicles concerned | Category L (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7) |
| Total number of inspections | Nearly one million |
| Rate of major failures | Overall: 9.44% |
| 1st inspection | 5 years after registration |
| Frequency of inspections | Every 3 years |
| Specific exemptions | Enduro and trial for licensed FFM riders |
| Sound test | Postponed to July 1, 2025 |
| Inspection when selling | Mandatory if > 5 years |
| Where to do the inspection | In any approved center |
Since the entry into force of the mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles on April 15, 2024, many users have shared their experiences. Pierre, a motorcycle enthusiast, explains: “I didn’t realize how crucial the inspection had become. I had my motorcycle checked as soon as I could, and the process was straightforward. It’s reassuring to know that the motorcycles on the road are in good condition.”
Marie, on the other hand, wonders: “I own a bike over 10 years old, and I’m wondering if the technical inspection will cause me problems. I’m glad to know that the deadlines are set and that I still have some time before the first inspection.”
The figures speak for themselves. Dupont, a mechanic, emphasizes this balance: “Nearly one million vehicles have been inspected in just one year! This shows that motorcyclists take their responsibilities seriously. The failure statistics are also encouraging: many motorcycles are in good condition.”
Jean-Claude, a licensed enduro rider, shares his satisfaction: “To my great surprise, my enduro motorcycle does not require inspection as long as I have my valid FFM license. It’s a relief, as it allows me to focus on practice rather than paperwork.”
For those worried about deadlines to be met, Sophie informs: “The calendar is clear. I’ve noted the deadlines for my motorcycle model. It makes my life a lot easier.”
Finally, the sound meter test generates mixed reactions. Luc indicates: “I had heard about noise tests, but with the postponement to July 1, 2025, it gives me a little breather to adjust my exhaust, as I want to stay within the norms.”
Gerard, a motorcycle seller, concludes: “The technical inspection has become an essential element in the sale of used vehicles. It reassures buyers and contributes to road safety.”
Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become mandatory for many motorized two-wheelers in France. With nearly a year of application, it is essential to take stock of this system: how many motorcycles have been inspected, who is affected by this new regulation, what are the exemptions, and what is the progress of the sound tests. Discover here all the essential information to stay up to date on motorcycle technical inspections.
Assessment of technical inspections in 2024
To date, nearly one million vehicles in category L have undergone a technical inspection. Here is the distribution of inspections by category according to the official statement from MOBILIANS:
| Category | Designation | Number of inspections | % of total |
|---|---|---|---|
| L1 | Moped 2 wheels ≤50cc | 90,762 | 9.10% |
| L3 | Motorcycles >50cc | 730,150 | 73.24% |
| Other categories | 304,588 | 27.43% |
The rate of major failures stands at 9.35% for motorcycles, highlighting the importance of this procedure for safety on our roads.
Who is affected by the technical inspection?
The technical inspection applies to vehicles of category L, including:
- L1e / L2e: mopeds 2 or 3 wheels ≤ 50cc
- L3e / L4e: motorcycles 2 wheels or with sidecar
- L5e: motorized tricycles (type MP3, etc.)
- L6e / L7e: quads and utility vehicles
It’s important to check your registration certificate to know your vehicle’s category.
Exemptions for enduro riders
Good news for enduro and trial enthusiasts: homologated motorcycles from these disciplines are exempt from technical inspection if the owner holds a valid FFM license. This exemption applies only to motorcycles of type L3e-AxE or L3e-AxT. It is essential to present the license and corresponding registration certificate during an inspection.
Inspection schedule
Unlike cars, the initial technical inspection for motorcycles must take place 5 years after first registration, followed by an inspection every 3 years. Here is a summary of the deadlines:
- Motorcycles registered before January 1, 2017: inspection must occur before December 31, 2024.
- Motorcycles from 2017 to 2019: inspection in 2025.
- Motorcycles from 2020 to 2021: inspection in 2026.
Sound tests
Another important aspect to mention is the sound level test. Initially planned for April 2025, this test has now been postponed to July 1, 2025. This allows some time for those whose exhaust system could be problematic during inspections.
Obligations when selling a motorcycle
Starting in 2024, selling a motorcycle over 5 years requires providing a valid technical inspection dated less than 6 months at the time of the transaction. However, if the sale is made to a professional, the inspection is not required.
How to perform your technical inspection?
Technical inspections must be performed in an approved center. The checks are primarily done without dismantling, but some elements, like the chassis number, may require specific access.
Since April 15, 2024, the technical inspection has become a requirement for numerous motorized two-wheelers. After one year of application, it is important to take stock of this measure. Approximately one million vehicles in category L have already been inspected, notably motorcycles exceeding 50cc, which represent over 73% of the inspections carried out.
The technical inspection applies to vehicles such as mopeds, motorcycles, and motorized tricycles. Owners must ensure their vehicles are compliant, as major failures can lead to mandatory re-inspections. A failure rate of 9.35% has been observed for motorcycles, with serious consequences in case of violations.
However, exemptions are provided for enduro and trial motorcycles that are homologated, provided that owners possess a valid license from the FFA. Additionally, the inspection intervals are different from those of cars, with the first inspection required five years after registration.
The sound test, initially planned for April 2025, has been postponed to July 1, 2025. This offers a reprieve to motorcyclists whose exhaust systems could be deemed too noisy during successive inspections.
Regarding sales, any motorcycle over fifty years must provide a valid technical inspection of less than six months at the time of the transaction. Buyers must pay attention to this document when registering a used vehicle.
FAQ on motorcycle technical inspections
The technical inspection is a regulatory requirement that applies to many motorized two-wheelers to ensure their compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Q: Since when has the technical inspection been mandatory for motorcycles?
It became mandatory on April 15, 2024.
Q: How many motorcycles have been inspected since the implementation of this measure?
Nearly one million vehicles in category L have been inspected since the beginning of this obligation.
Q: What categories of motorcycles are concerned by the technical inspection?
The concerned categories include mopeds (L1, L2), motorcycles (L3, L4), tricycles (L5), and quads (L6, L7).
Q: Are there exemptions for motorcycles?
Yes, homologated enduro and trial motorcycles are exempt if the owner has a valid license from the French Motorcycle Federation (FFM).
Q: When do I need to undergo my technical inspection if my motorcycle was registered before 2017?
The first obligation is to pass the technical inspection between April 15 and December 31, 2024.
Q: What about the sound test that was supposed to be implemented?
Initially planned for April 2025, the sound level test has been postponed to July 1, 2025.
Q: What happens if my motorcycle fails the technical inspection?
In case of a major failure, you have 2 months to correct the problem, while a critical failure results in immediate immobilization.
Q: What should I do to sell my motorcycle that is over 5 years old?
You must provide a valid technical inspection dated less than 6 months if selling to an individual.
Q: Where can I carry out my technical inspection?
You can do it in any approved center without dismantling unless access to certain elements is required.
