Press Release: Import of second-hand cars into Poland – Commission refers case to ECJ

The European Commission has decided to bring Poland before the European Court of Justice for requiring technical tests prior to the registration of imported used cars without imposing these conditions on domestic cars already registered in Poland. The Polish authorities require imported second hand cars to undergo technical tests before they can be registered in Poland. Second-hand cars imported into Poland must undergo roadworthiness tests which are more expensive than other types of technical tests in Poland. These controls are not required if identical cars of the same age, model or type, which are already registered in Poland, change hands. The Commission considers that the Polish measure can not be justified since it is neither necessary nor proportionate to the objectives claimed by the Polish authorities - the protection of public order, public health and the environment.