Yeah, all over Europe (at least EU and EEA) this is the norm. Americans are usually quite surprised when they learn the level of detail these checks go to. Eve

Yeah, all over Europe (at least EU and EEA) this is the norm. Americans are usually quite surprised when they learn the level of detail these checks go to. Even for a 20 year old car, you will be told stuff like "you need to replace the front left wheel bearing and the tie rod bushing, both rear springs, and that ABS sensor which is not working". You'll even get a fail if you show up without wiper fluid (since then they can't verify that your wipers are working correctly). They most definitely check your lights thoroughly. Around here, just having the test done is almost $100. Then there is the (potential) garage bill or DIY work+parts to fix whatever didn't pass, and then $20 for the re-test to fix whatever was necessary. If you don't do it, you lose your plates and insurance coverage. But usually the people who run aftermarket lights take the required 1 hour to put the stock ones back in before the test.