HI Ray,
Here in Germany, the procedure is different.
First you had to take the vehicle with available technical documents to the Technical authorities. We call them " TUeV ". They had to certify that the car is road worthy and fulfil the modern traffic safety requirements. After undergoing a very strict inspection minimum 20 year old vehicles are categorised " old-timers " and 30 year old vehicles are declared as "Historical cultural article ". They check the chassis number, engine number and all other technical specifications. Lot of exceptions are given for vintage cars from the current rules. The list is very interesting.
The second part is to acquire a No Objection Certificate from central traffic police stating that the car is not involved in any traffic or criminal offence. This certificate cost about 30(?) and valid only for a month. If you have an original ownership book you can save this part.
The third part is to register car for the road traffic with the local authorities within a month. After checking your personal ID, NOC, TUeV report, (Pollution report ?), insurance policy etc, they will give you a new ownership book and a registration document carrying a new registration numbers of the number plates. Two wheelers need only one plate in the rear. The 30 year old vehicle can add a letter " H " at the end of registration number and car will get a cheaper flat rate road tax and vintage car insurance.
The fourth part is to fix the number plates and take the car for final reconfirmation of VIN. They also control the first aid box, emergency traffic warning sign etc. Then they will stick the plaque on the number plate with the validity for two years. There after every two years period vehicle had to undergo the road worthy test.
We can drive legally 200 miles/hour or more (but not with the TC !!!!) on the "Autobahn", if the traffic and climate conditions permits. This is not possible in many other part of the world. So the road worthy test is a kind of life insurance for traffic participants.
Are we under developed in EU ?
From the cold Taunus.
Madhu