Glossary
HU / TÜV
The mandatory German vehicle safety inspection, every two years for passenger cars.
HU (Hauptuntersuchung) is Germany's biannual roadworthiness test, commonly called TÜV after the best-known provider. Every passenger car older than 3 years must pass HU every 24 months; motorcycles too. HU costs €90–140 and covers brakes, lights, tyres, emissions and safety-critical components. When passed, a sticker (Prüfplakette) is fixed to the rear plate showing the next due date. A car with an expired HU cannot be registered.