A Periodic Inspection Obligation (IPO) is a requirement for all automobiles in circulation in Portugal and failure to comply with this obligation can result in bribes between €250 and €1,250.
More than a legal formality, IPO serves to ensure that your vehicle is in a safe driving condition and in compliance with environmental regulations. Follow the advice of Help Flash to properly prepare your vehicle to go to IPO and take advantage to make these examples a regular concern. Because what really matters is your safety and the rest of the roads.
Periodicidade das Inspeções
The frequency of inspections varies depending on the type and quality of the vehicle. The table below summarizes the deadlines for carrying out the IPO:
|
Vehicle Type |
1st IPO |
Inspeções Subsequentes |
|
Light passenger cars |
4 years |
Biennial at 8 years, annual at 8 years |
|
Light automobiles from supermarkets |
2 years |
Annual |
|
Heavy vehicles |
1 year |
Annual |
Note: Make sure that you carry out the inspection on the day and date of the vehicle's initial registration.
Steps to follow in preparation for the IPO
- Verify the Lighting
Make sure all lights are working properly, including high, low, low, parking, and work lights. Replace any blown lamps and adjust or align if necessary.
- Inspecione os Pneus
Check that the depth of the floor is at least 1.6 mm. Make sure there are no holes, deep cuts or deformations.
- Teste os Travões
Ensure two-way efficiency and pay attention to abnormal noises or vibrations. If necessary, have the pads or discs replaced.
- Check Fluids
Check to see if the snow levels are correct and if any leaks are visible.
- Obligatory safety accessories
Confirm that the vehicle has a signal triangle and reflective tailpipe.
- Documentation
Take with you the following original documents:
- Unique Automobile Document (DUA).
- Valid insurance certificate.
- Comprovative of the last inspection (if applicable).
- Condições gerais
Certify the condition of the windshield, the rear-view mirrors, the glass wipers, the safety belts and the windshield attachment.
- Acessórios não homologados
Be careful of non-approved accessories, such as accessories, glass films or additional lights. Certify that your use is legal or legalized. Any alteration that is not included in the legislation results in a “chumbo” in the IPO.
Outras sugestões
- Try to mark the inspection in advance to avoid delays and unnecessary waits.
- Consider conducting a general review by a trust office before conducting an IPO.
- If you have a car that runs little or circulates mostly in the city, it faces a longer route (on the highway, for example). This will allow two different mechanical components to reach their ideal operating temperature before IPO.
