ülevaatuse

Ülevaatuse is the genitive form of ülevaatus, an Estonian noun meaning inspection or examination. The term covers both general and formal checks and implies a structured assessment of condition, compliance, or performance. It is used across many domains, from machinery and infrastructure to documents and processes.

In everyday language, the most common reference is to the mandatory technical vehicle inspection in Estonia, known as tehline ülevaatus. It is conducted by authorized inspection stations under the supervision of Maanteeamet (Road Administration). The inspection evaluates whether a vehicle meets safety and environmental standards and typically covers major systems such as brakes, steering, lighting, tires, emissions, suspension, and safety equipment.

The process generally involves scheduling an appointment, presenting the vehicle’s registration documents and ownership details, and paying a fee. After the assessment, the inspector issues a certificate stating pass or fail. A pass keeps the vehicle legally roadworthy for a specified period, while a fail requires repairs and a reinspection. If the inspection is not completed within the required timeframe, the vehicle may be prohibited from use on public roads.

Beyond the transport context, ülevaatuse can also refer to broader reviews or audits of processes, projects, or equipment. It denotes a thorough, methodical examination aimed at determining current state, safety, efficiency, or compliance with standards.