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Why does a car manufacturer issue a COC?

Car manufacturers are required to issue a Certificate of Conformity (COC) for every vehicle they produce that is homologated for the European market. This certificate is prepared based on the European type approval and includes technical specifications such as:

• Vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Engine type and power
• Fuel type
• Co2 emissions
• Dimensions and weight
• Permitted maximum mass

The purpose of the COC is to facilitate the process of registration and admission in European countries. This avoids the need for separate inspections for each country.

When do you need a COC certificate?

A COC is essential in a variety of situations:

1. When importing a car

If you import a car from another EU country, you must register it with the RDW (National Office for Road Transport). The RDW uses the COC to verify that the car meets European requirements. Without this document, registration may take longer or even be impossible.

2. When first registering a new car

When a manufacturer produces a car for the European market, it comes with a COC. This document is needed to register the car in the first country where it is sold.

3. When applying for individual approval

For vehicles without European type approval, such as imported cars from outside the EU or with special modifications, a COC can help apply for individual approval.

New cars

With a new car, the dealer or importer supplies a COC as standard. This document is an integral part of the car and is often provided free of charge.

Used cars

For a used vehicle, the original COC may be missing. In that case, you can request a copy from the manufacturer or an authorized intermediary. Keep in mind that there may be a cost for this.

Import cars without COC

If an imported car does not have a COC, you must have an individual inspection performed at the RDW. This process is more extensive and more expensive than registration with a COC.

What if you don’t have a COC certificate?

Without a COC, the registration of a vehicle can become more complex. In the Netherlands, this often means that a car must be inspected by the RDW to determine whether it meets European standards. This can lead to additional costs and longer processing time.

In some cases, a national certificate of conformity or a previously issued registration certificate from an EU country can serve as an alternative. However, this is not always sufficient, especially if the car comes from outside the EU.

Frequently asked questions about the COC certificate

What does a COC certificate cost?

Costs vary by manufacturer. Some manufacturers charge a few tens of dollars, while others may charge hundreds for a duplicate.

Can I register a car without a COC?

Yes, but this requires an inspection at the RDW. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than if you have a COC.

Is a COC mandatory for all vehicles?

For vehicles with a European type approval, yes. For non-EU or classic vehicles, a COC may be missing and an alternative inspection is required.

How long is a COC valid?

A COC does not expire as long as the car has not undergone any structural changes that affect the type approval.

COC certificate in a nutshell

A COC certificate is an important document when registering and importing a vehicle within Europe. It proves that a car complies with European regulations and makes registration procedures easier. Don’t have a COC? Then the process can be longer and more expensive. Therefore, when importing or purchasing, always make sure this document is present.