NL
APK
Checked at the APK inspection via RDW-approved stations. Damaged, missing or non-approved marking can be a failure point. Serious deficiencies can lead to re-test or fines through the public prosecutor.
Countries
APK (NL), HU (DE), Pickerl (AT), MFK (CH): each country checks condition, approval and installation of your conspicuity marking differently. What to know for every inspection regime.
View my inspection checkBy country
Inspection differs by country
The UN regulation is harmonised across Europe, but inspection happens nationally. The condition of the marking is a checkpoint everywhere. Inspectors check for presence, condition, correct colours, visibility of the E-mark and correct placement per R48.
DE
HauptuntersuchungPart of the HU inspection at TÜV or DEKRA. A standard checkpoint for German operators. Defects often result in immediate Beanstandung with a short deadline to rectify plus fine risk.
AT
PickerlChecked at the periodic inspection, the well-known Pickerl. Non-compliant marking leads to a negative assessment and must be rectified before re-inspection.
CH
MFKChecked at the Motorfahrzeugkontrolle. Switzerland is not an EU member but largely applies the ECE rules. Foreign vehicles are also inspected at borders and during controls.
Although the technical requirements from ECE R150 and R48 are identical everywhere, enforcement practice differs. The Netherlands and Germany tend to inspect the condition of marking more strictly than some other member states. For international fleets it makes sense to keep marking at the highest standard at all times.
Cross-border operations may trigger additional controls abroad. A vehicle that passes inspection in NL or DE will normally satisfy requirements in most other countries, provided the marking is complete, clean and undamaged.
International operation
Work to the strictest practical standard
The technical rules are harmonised, but inspection practice differs. For international vehicles, a uniform and documented approach is the strongest choice.
Before departure
Check that marking is complete, clean and undamaged. Replace loose edges before a small defect becomes an inspection issue.
After damage
Repair with the same type, width and colour. Mixing products looks inconsistent and makes checks harder.
At re-test
Make sure the workshop knows which standard, colour and width were previously applied.
Fleet routine
- Check during washing or maintenance
- Photo of repair area before and after repair
- Spare tape per colour in stock
- Technical sheet available
- Registration country and operating area known
Avoid inspection failure across Europe Use approved tape and repair damage before inspection or roadside checks become a problem.
Make the vehicle inspection-ready →