If you’re planning to register a vehicle in Belgium or need to check the registration details of a car, understanding the Belgian vehicle registration process and the Certificat d’immatriculation is essential. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to check vehicle registration in Belgium and decode the information contained in the registration certificate.
What is a Vehicle Registration?
Vehicle registration is the legal process of recording a motor vehicle with the appropriate government authority in Belgium. It involves assigning a unique registration number (license plate) to the vehicle and documenting essential information such as the make, model, VIN, and ownership details. Registration is mandatory for all vehicles operating on Belgian public roads.
Importance of Vehicle Registration:
Vehicle registration serves several crucial functions:
- Establishes legal ownership of the vehicle
- Helps law enforcement identify and trace vehicles
- Ensures compliance with safety and emissions standards
- Facilitates the collection of road taxes and insurance verification
When You Need Your Vehicle Registration in Belgium:
You’ll need your Certificat d’immatriculation in various situations:
- While driving on public roads as proof of registration
- When selling or transferring ownership of the vehicle
- During interactions with law enforcement
- When renewing roadworthiness tests or accessing certain facilities
Vehicle Registration Terminology in Belgium:
Due to Belgium’s linguistic diversity, the vehicle registration certificate is known by different names:
- Certificat d’immatriculation (CIM) in French-speaking regions
- Kentekenbewijs in Dutch-speaking Flanders
- Zulassungsbescheinigung in German-speaking areas
Issuing Authority:
The Certificat d’immatriculation is issued by the Service Public Fédéral Mobilité et Transports (Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport), a government agency responsible for mobility, transport, and infrastructure policies in Belgium.
Checking Vehicle Registration Information:
To perform a Belgium vehicle registration check, visit the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport website. Enter the vehicle’s VIN to retrieve registration details, including:
- Registration status and expiry date
- Technical records and specifications
- History and modifications
Understanding the Certificat d’immatriculation:
The Belgian registration certificate consists of two parts: one kept in the vehicle and another stored at home. It contains essential information about the vehicle and its owner, divided into several sections:
Section 1:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Registration and construction dates
- Owner’s personal information
Section 2:
- Make, model, and type of vehicle
- Maximum permissible mass
- Engine information
- Color and maximum speed
- Environmental information
Section 3:
- Commercial underplate registration information
Understanding the Belgian vehicle registration process and the Certificat d’immatriculation is crucial for vehicle owners in Belgium. By knowing how to check registration information and interpret the certificate’s contents, you can ensure compliance with legal requirements and maintain accurate records of your vehicle’s status.
If you’re planning to import a vehicle into Belgium, obtaining a Certificate of Conformity (COC) is essential. GetCOC, the top provider of official and authentic COCs valid in all EU and EEA countries, can assist you in this process. Visit their website to learn more about obtaining a COC for your vehicle.