Certificate of Conformity (CoC) – How to Obtain a Vehicle CoC?

What Is a Vehicle Certificate of Conformity (CoC)?

A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is a compliance document issued by a vehicle manufacturer confirming that the vehicle meets the technical requirements and standards set by the European Union (EU). However, it does not guarantee the performance or quality of the vehicle.

What information does a CoC include?

The CoC contains essential vehicle data such as:

• vehicle identification details

• manufacturer information

• type approval number

• technical specifications

The document may also include emission classification, which is used to calculate vehicle tax rates in the UK.

Since 2015, all newly registered vehicles in the EU are required to be delivered with a CoC. Alternatively, a full TÜV approval can be obtained, though this is often significantly more expensive.

Which Vehicles Require a CoC?

A Certificate of Conformity is mandatory for new vehicles being sold or registered in the EU, as well as for used vehicles imported from non-EU countries. Standardising vehicle documentation across the EU simplifies the registration and trade process. This is particularly beneficial for car dealerships and the automotive industry.

Any vehicle imported from abroad must also have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) assigned. This number is essential for vehicle identification and CoC verification.

Other documents needed to register a vehicle in the UK include:

• foreign registration certificate

• Certificate of Conformity

• emissions label (confirming the emission class of the vehicle)

How to Obtain a CoC Certificate?

To obtain a CoC, a vehicle must undergo testing and assessment by an authorised certification body. These tests check compliance with technical regulations related to vehicle safety, environmental protection, and consumer protection.

In many cases, used vehicles imported to the UK may not already have a CoC. Once the manufacturer has successfully completed the type approval process, the certification authority issues the CoC for the specific vehicle model.

The CoC remains valid throughout the lifetime of the vehicle and is necessary for registering imported vehicles in the UK.

Is a CoC the Same as Type Approval?

Type approval is the process by which a vehicle is granted permission to be placed on the market. Upon successful completion of all required tests, a certification authority issues a type approval certificate, allowing the vehicle to be registered.

The Certificate of Conformity serves as confirmation that the vehicle complies with EU environmental and safety regulations. It is a key element in the EU type approval framework.

Why Is the CoC Certificate Important?

If you are importing or selling vehicles in the UK, it is crucial that each vehicle has a valid CoC. This ensures that:

• the vehicle can be legally registered with the DVLA

• the vehicle complies with EU legal standards

• the certificate confirms the country of origin

• the vehicle meets emissions and safety requirements set by the EU

Contact a Certification Body for CoC Issuance

If you need assistance with obtaining a Certificate of Conformity, or have questions about the registration of imported vehicles in the UK, please contact an authorised certification body to ensure full compliance with current regulations.