Do imported cars have a certificate of conformity?
2 Answers
Imported cars do have a certificate of conformity, but depending on the dealer, some provide it with the vehicle while others may withhold it for an extended period. The certificate of conformity is a crucial document for vehicles, serving as a mandatory requirement for vehicle registration and licensing. Only vehicles with this certificate meet the national standards for motor vehicle equipment quality and related regulations, thereby qualifying for road registration. Other important vehicle documents include the purchase invoice, which serves as vital proof during the car-buying process and is also one of the required documents for vehicle registration. Therefore, when purchasing a car, it is essential to request the purchase invoice from the dealer and verify its validity.
Last time I helped a friend pick up an imported BMW, I paid special attention to the documentation. Imported vehicles don’t have the green-colored certificate of conformity like domestically produced cars; instead, they come with a blue A4-sized document called the 'Certificate of Imported Goods,' known in the industry as the 'Customs Clearance Document.' This document is essentially the ID card of an imported car, printed with the VIN, engine number, and importer information. Without it, the DMV won’t issue a license plate! When picking up the car, the dealership will provide you with three key documents: the Customs Clearance Document, the Imported Motor Vehicle Inspection Sheet, and the Vehicle Conformity Certificate—keep them safe and don’t lose them. Pay special attention to the embossed anti-counterfeit stamp in the lower right corner of the Customs Clearance Document; the DMV will inspect it using UV light to verify the anti-counterfeit mark.
