Vehicle Inspection in Cambodia
Renewing your vehicle inspection (commonly known in Khmer as "Chhiek") in Cambodia has become significantly more streamlined thanks to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) automation systems.
The Renewal Process (Periodic Inspection)
For private passenger cars, inspections are typically required every 2 years.
Step 1: Online Booking (Recommended)
While you can "walk in," booking online prevents long queues.
- Portal: Visit techinspection.mpwt.gov.kh or use the MPWT Digital Service app.
- Action: Create an account, enter your vehicle plate number, and choose your preferred inspection center and time slot.
- Payment: Pay the fee (approx. $15–$20 or 60,000–80,000 Riel) via the app using ABA, Wing, or Acleda.
Step 2: Physical Inspection
Drive your car to the center at your scheduled time. The technician will check:
- Safety: Brakes, steering, lights, and tires.
- Environment: Exhaust emissions (smoke test).
- Identity: Verification that engine and chassis numbers match your documents.
Step 3: Sticker Issuance
Once passed, you will receive a new inspection certificate and a blue sticker for your windshield.
First-Time Inspection (Pre-Registration)
If you are inspecting a vehicle before it has license plates (usually a newly imported used car or a brand-new car from a dealer), the process is called the Initial Inspection.
The Pre-Registration Workflow
- Customs & Tax First: You must have your Import Tax Receipt (Custom Label) and have paid the Registration Tax at the General Department of Taxation (GDT) before the inspection center will accept the vehicle.
- Engine/Chassis Validation: For first-time cars, the inspection is much stricter regarding the "ID" of the car. They will perform a "pencil rubbing" of the chassis and engine numbers to ensure they exactly match the import papers.
- Driving Without Plates: It's common and legally permitted to drive a newly purchased vehicle without plates while completing the registration process. You can drive directly to the inspection center.
- The "Pink Paper": Instead of a sticker tied to a plate number, you will receive a technical inspection report. You must take this report to the MPWT Registration office (or use the online registration portal) to finally apply for your permanent license plates and "Blue Book."
Required Documents
| Document | For Renewal | For Pre-Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle ID | Original Vehicle ID Card (Blue Book) | Import Tax Receipt (Custom Label) |
| Identity | National ID or Passport | National ID/Passport + Residence Cert* |
| Previous Record | Previous Inspection Certificate | Purchase Invoice/Sales Contract |
| Proof of Tax | - | Registration Tax Payment Receipt |
*Residence certificates (for foreigners) are obtained from your local Sangkat office. See our Certificate of Residence guide.
Inspection Locations
Phnom Penh Centers:
- Sen Sok (near Aeon 2)
- Chbar Ampov
- Meanchey
Mobile Units: If you are in a remote province, the MPWT operates mobile inspection trucks. Check their Facebook page for the monthly schedule.
Common Failure Points
Before your inspection, check:
- Spare tire must be present and inflated
- Window tint - front side windows must allow visibility (not too dark)
- Windshield - fix any cracks before going
- Horn - ensure horn is in good working order
- Lights - all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals working
- Exhaust - excessive smoke will fail the emissions test