21:36 13 July 2026
Drivers pay more for car inspections yet inspection stations still in debt
Poland’s vehicle inspection stations are again facing financial pressure despite a fee increase introduced in September 2025. The price of a basic mandatory inspection rose from PLN 98 to PLN 149, providing only temporary relief after more than 21 years of frozen rates. By the end of April, overdue debt in the technical testing sector had climbed to more than PLN 90.3 mln, up nearly PLN 2 mln year over year, while 341 stations were struggling with repayments.
Operators face rising energy, labor, social contribution, and equipment costs but cannot set inspection prices themselves. Smaller stations are particularly vulnerable, and planned stricter EU testing requirements may create additional investment needs.
