Periodic vehicle inspection (MVPI): timing, fees and what they check
The Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection (MVPI, known as fahs) is mandatory for keeping a car registered, and its certificate is required both to renew the istimara and to transfer ownership. New private cars are exempt for the first three years after first registration; after that the inspection is annual and the certificate is valid for 12 months.
The fee is SAR 115 for private cars. If the car fails, you fix the faults and re-test for SAR 37.95. If you are buying a used car whose inspection is about to expire, price that cost into the deal.
Steps
- Check first whether your car is exempt: new cars need no inspection during the first three years after registration.
- Book an appointment through the MVPI website, or drive to the nearest periodic-inspection station in your city.
- Bring the car together with its istimara (registration).
- Pay the inspection fee (SAR 115 for private cars).
- The station checks: brakes, suspension, lights, emissions, tires, and that the chassis (VIN) number matches the papers.
- On a pass you get a certificate valid for 12 months; on a fail, fix the noted faults and re-test for SAR 37.95.
Fees & costs
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Periodic inspection fee (private car) | SAR 115 | Certificate valid for 12 months |
| Re-inspection after fixing faults | SAR 37.95 |
Common questions
How much is the periodic inspection, and the re-test?
The inspection costs SAR 115 for private cars, and the re-test after fixing the faults costs SAR 37.95.
Does a new car need the periodic inspection?
No — new private cars are exempt for the first three years after registration. After that the inspection is annual, with a certificate valid for 12 months.
What does the MVPI station actually check?
Brakes, suspension, lights, emissions and tires, plus that the chassis (VIN) number matches the papers. A valid inspection is required to renew the istimara and to transfer ownership.
Guidance only — the official authority is the final reference.