Importing a car without a CVO: Is that possible?

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Importing a car without a CVO: is it possible and how does it work?

You have your eye on a car abroad, but… there is no CVO document (Certificate of Conformity) present. Perhaps the manufacturer has stopped, the model has been around longer than the European regulations require, or you have lost the original document. How do you import that car without a CVO? In this blog you will discover what you can expect from the import process without a coc document, what alternatives there are and how you can avoid unnecessary costs and delays.

What is a CVO and why is it important?

A CVO (Certificate of Conformity), also known as COC (Certificate of Conformity), is an official factory document that proves that your vehicle complies with European type-approval standards.

  • Specifications: Consider emission values, engine power and safety regulations.
  • Register faster: A car with a CVO can be registered more quickly at the RDW (or similar authorities in other countries).
  • Less risk of additional inspections: No CVO can lead to additional checks, more paperwork and higher costs.

Can you import a car without a CVO?

Yes, it is possible in principle, but it is often not the easiest route. Without a coc document you are faced with a number of extra steps, such as:

  1. Individual approval at the RDW
    The RDW can perform an extensive inspection to check whether the car complies with all Dutch and EU regulations. We call this a individual type approval.
  2. Additional costs and waiting times
    Think of administration costs, inspection costs and possible adjustments to the vehicle. You often lose more time than if a CVO is present.

Why is the CVO document missing?

  • Older vehicles: Cars from before 1996 did not always receive a CVO as standard.
  • Manufacturer stopped: If the manufacturer no longer exists, you cannot easily request a replacement document.
  • Never included: Sometimes the previous owner or importer forgets to hand over the CVO, or you lose the document along the way.

The alternatives: what can you do?

1. A replacement CVO

A CVO may seem impossible to find, but there is still a route to get a copy or replacement document. This can be done via:

  • The official manufacturer or brand importer (if it still exists).
  • Through us, COC services. We can see if we can arrange the COC documents.
  • International or umbrella organizations that manage certain trademark archives.

2. Individual inspection at the RDW

If you really can't get to it, then often the only thing left is individual approvalThe RDW then carries out a thorough check on:

  • Safety: Are all lights, brakes and seat belts working properly?
  • Environmental requirements: Does the car meet emission standards and any particulate filters (for diesels)?
  • Identification: Is the chassis number and origin of the car correct?

If approved, you will receive a Dutch registration certificate. The big disadvantage: this inspection is often more expensive and intensive than with a CVO.

How long does the import process take without a CVO?

The duration varies per situation and depends on the workload at the RDW, the complexity of the technical requirements and the condition of the vehicle. Count on at least a few weeks. Do you do everything via an RDW inspection and does the car have to be adapted to the European requirements? Then it can sometimes take months.

Additional tips to limit hassle

  1. Check the regulations in advance
    Each EU country has its own procedures for importing. So check not only the Dutch regulations, but also the foreign regulations (especially if you travel via multiple countries).
  2. Find out about the costs
    Without CVO, additional RDW inspections and technical adjustments can be quite expensive. Make a cost estimate in advance and compare it with a car with CVO document.
  3. Ask for expert advice
    A specialized vehicle import company, or an intermediary that requests COC documents, can help you get clarity faster. Perhaps there is a alternative CVO that you have not yet considered.
  4. Be patient
    The route without a coc-document car requires a bit more perseverance. So make sure you take your time and avoid unpleasant surprises halfway.

Conclusion: is it worth importing a car without a CVO?

Importing a car without a CVO is certainly possible, but take into account additional steps, costs and possible delays. Sometimes it is worth doing everything possible to find a (replacement) CVO. If that does not work? Then an individual approval is often the only solution.

Do you want to know if your car is eligible for a replacement CVO? Or do you need personal advice for your import process? Feel free to contact us, or visit our COC shop. This way you are always well prepared and your import adventure remains fun and affordable!

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