Certificate of Conformity (COC): Complete Guide
20 September 2026
A Certificate of Conformity becomes essential when a vehicle is imported, registered in another European country or when the local authority needs technical information that is missing from the registration certificate.
What a COC proves
The COC links one specific vehicle, identified by its VIN, to an approved European vehicle type. It records the original factory specification and the regulatory data used during type approval.
Who issues the document?
The vehicle manufacturer or an authorised representative issues the COC. The document is based on the vehicle configuration at the time it left the factory.
Information normally included
- Manufacturer, make, type, variant and version.
- VIN and European type-approval number.
- Engine, fuel, power and emissions information.
- Mass, dimensions, axles, tyres and seating capacity.
- CO2 and environmental classification where applicable.
When you may need a COC
The document is commonly requested for an imported vehicle, a first registration in a different EU country, re-registration after a move or when an authority needs the complete approved technical specification.
Vehicles that may require another solution
A European COC may not be available for vehicles built for a non-EU market, very old vehicles, heavily modified vehicles or special-purpose conversions. These cases may require a manufacturer data sheet, technical report or individual approval.
How to order correctly
- Copy the complete 17-character VIN from the vehicle or registration document.
- Use the VIN check to identify the correct certificate product.
- Select Physical COC or PDF only where both formats are available.
- Enter the VIN and optional company Tax ID, then review delivery and price information.
- Complete checkout and provide any additional documents requested for verification.
Important
A correct COC can simplify registration, but the competent authority in the destination country makes the final decision and may request additional documents.