Motor vehicles and trailers are subject to periodic testing. Major technical modifications have to be inspected in addition to the periodic test.
This testing takes place at different intervals (one to five years) depending on the type and age of your vehicle. You will receive written notice from your canton's road traffic office when your vehicle's test is due.
You can have your vehicle tested before its periodic test is due. This can be useful if you are considering selling it.
You must report significant modifications to the vehicle to your canton's road traffic office within 14 days and have the vehicle tested before you can continue to use it.
For more information contact your canton's road traffic office.
Imported vehicles also have to undergo testing before they are allowed on the road. In the case of new cars there is no test, but a check is made to ensure that the paperwork and vehicle are in order.