What Is a Certificate of Conformity (COC)

31 January 2025

If you’re planning to buy a car, there are several important things to consider, especially formalities. One key requirement is vehicle registration. Without it, you can’t legally drive your new car. Additionally, when buying a new car, you’ll receive another important document called the COC papers. But what are these papers, and why are they important? This article explains what COC papers are, their purpose, and how you can easily obtain them.

What Are COC Documents for a Car?

COC stands for "Certificate of Conformity." These papers are essential for registering a vehicle, especially if it’s imported from another EU country.

The COC document provides detailed information about the vehicle’s performance and emissions. It also includes technical specifications and compliance with regulations. This document is crucial for registering your vehicle in the EU, as it specifies the car’s emissions classification, which determines the applicable vehicle tax.

The COC papers include technical details like:

Brand and model
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Color
Number of seats
Dimensions (length, width, height, rear overhang)
Engine performance
Noise level
Engine displacement
Maximum speed
Tire size
Fuel type
Gear ratios
Permissible total weight

How to Obtain a COC

COC papers are required for vehicle registration in all EU member states but don’t need to be carried in the car at all times. Since 2005, manufacturers issue the COC document for new vehicles, and it’s provided to the first owner. When buying a new car, ensure all documents, including the COC paper, are handed over. For used cars, the seller should ideally provide the COC papers, though it’s not mandatory.

If the car model was released before COC papers became mandatory, you can request them directly from the manufacturer. If the model has an EU type approval, and was manufactured after 1996, the manufacturer will issue the document, usually free of charge for first-time requests.

Importance of COC for Imported Cars

COC papers simplify the registration process for vehicles imported from EU or non-EU countries like Switzerland and Norway. The goal is to promote the free movement of goods within the EU and support economic growth by making it easier to import and export vehicles.

Previously, registering a car purchased abroad was complicated and time-consuming, often deterring buyers. The introduction of COC papers streamlined the process by reducing paperwork.

Documents Needed for Vehicle Registration

To register a car bought from another EU country, you’ll need the following documents:

For New Cars:

ID card or passport with proof of residence
Authorization letter and IDs if the registration isn’t under your name
Insurance confirmation
Vehicle registration certificate, Part II
COC papers
Direct debit authorization for vehicle tax
For businesses: Business registration or trade register excerpt
Proof of ownership (invoice or purchase contract)

For Used Cars:

In addition to the above:

Original foreign vehicle documents
Existing license plates (if the vehicle is still registered)
Inspection report for technical inspection (e.g., TÜV, DEKRA) and emissions test, if applicable

In some cases, the registration office may require the vehicle to be physically inspected. However, if a TÜV inspection report is available, this is usually unnecessary. Please be aware that these requirements may vary from country to country.

By understanding the importance of COC papers and ensuring you have the required documents, you can simplify the process of registering your car.

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