What is a COC?
Let’s keep it simple. The Certificate of Conformity (COC) is like a car’s passport. It’s a document that says, “Hey, this vehicle follows the rules and is good to go.”
Why is it Used?
The COC is a data sheet that proves your vehicle meets safety and environmental standards. Authorities want to ensure your car plays by the European rules of the road.
How it Relates to Importing into the EU and Portugal
The COC contains the technical data and ensures this meets vehicle standards, this makes the import process easier. Portuguese officials want assurance that your car complies with their regulations.
Why You Need a COC When Importing from Within the EU
Even if you’re moving between EU countries, having a COC saves you money in the process. If you provide the COC yourself, you won’t have to pay someone else to do this for you.
How to Get a COC?
If you are from Europe, reach out to your car manufacturer or an authorized representative. In many cases you can get your COC for free this way. Some charge a fee but it’s still cheaper than getting it from a third party.
What Does a COC Cost?
The cost generally varies from 0-200 euros, depending on the situation.
What kinds of vehicles have a COC?
Cars, motorcycles, trailers, commercial vehicles and RVs/motorhomes.
In What Build Year Did Cars Start to Get COC Documents?
COCs entered the automotive scene in the early ’90s. So, if your car was made in the ’90s onward, a certificate of conformity is likely available.
How to Obtain a COC if Your Car is from Outside of Europe?
Reach out to your car’s manufacturer or their designated representative. They’ll guide you on the process and provide the necessary documentation. We can also arrange this for you.
How does a COC relate to the inspection?
In Portugal, if there are uncertainties about whether your imported car meets the regulations during the homologation process, the authorities may request an additional physical inspection. This inspection aims to thoroughly assess your vehicle’s compliance with safety, environmental, and technical standards required for driving on Portuguese roads. The decision to conduct an additional inspection is typically based on factors such as the age, type, and specifications of your car.
Certified inspection centers authorized by Portuguese authorities carry out these examinations.
Can I Also Import a Car Without a COC?
Technically, yes, you can. However, having a COC streamlines the process and makes your life easier. Without it, you might find yourself grappling with more paperwork and hurdles.
How Does it Relate to Homologation?
Think of homologation as the approval stamp from the car authorities. The COC plays a crucial role here. It aligns your car with European standards, ensuring it meets safety, environmental, and technical requirements. This is why you will need a COC for the homologation process.
Can you obtain a COC for me?
While we generally recommend obtaining the COC yourself (this is the cheapest option), we can also do this part of the process for you.
Do you do the homologation process?
Homologation is part of our services. Once we have received the necessary documents, such as the COC, we will be able to do all the paperwork.
If you would like more information about importing your car, you are welcome to contact us!
