Fast, pragmatic, and fully compliant – anywhere in Europe.
European approvals shouldn’t feel impossible.
WHY WORK WITH US
With over two decades of experience, we turn complex approvals into success stories. Our mobile team works with certified partners across Europe to deliver fast, flexible, and fully compliant results.
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Years of Experience
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Car Models
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Laboratories
10+
Approval Types Explained
Finding the Right Path to European Road Approval
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)
An approval process applied to a single vehicle at a time, ensuring compliance for units that lack a Certificate of Conformity (COC). It covers imports, conversions, prototypes, and small batches requiring bespoke certification. IVA exists in two forms – Article 44 (International) and Article 45 (National) – offering the most flexible and practical path to European registration.
Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA)
The most comprehensive form of EU certification, designed for series-produced vehicles that share identical technical specifications. It results in a Certificate of Conformity (COC) issued by the OEM, allowing seamless registration across all EU and EEA markets. WVTA is the preferred route when a vehicle model is produced in high volumes and intended for distribution throughout Europe.
Small Series Type Approval (SSTA)
A streamlined variation of type approval that simplifies testing and documentation for limited production runs. It retains core EU safety and environmental checks but allows exemptions for certain systems or components. SSTA is ideal for specialized, low-volume, or niche vehicles where full type approval would be technically or economically excessive or unfeasible.
FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about European homologation.
Is a Certificate of Conformity (COC) required for European registration?
A COC is only issued for vehicles manufactured under EU Type Approval (WVTA). For vehicles produced outside the EU or modified after production, registration is achieved through an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) process under Article 44 or 45.
What’s the difference between Article 44 and Article 45 IVA?
Both fall under the Individual Vehicle Approval framework. Article 44 (International IVA) enables registration in multiple EU or EEA countries, while Article 45 (National IVA) applies to single-market registrations. We identify the correct route based on each project’s market scope and technical setup.
Does Homologator also handle the technical modifications and testing?
Yes. Our team members manage the complete process – from component design and CAN-bus calibration to emissions, lighting, and safety validation – ensuring each unit meets EU standards before certification.
Can inspections and approvals take place outside Germany?
Yes. Our mobile technical teams operate across more than 30 European markets and work directly with TÜV Süd, TÜV Nord, GTÜ and others. Conversions, Testing, data collection, and conformity checks can be performed on-site where the vehicles are located.
What are the expected timelines for approval?
Project duration depends on the vehicle category and required testing. A straightforward IVA can often be completed within a few weeks, while more complex engineering work may take longer. We always provide a transparent quote and timeline before launch.
NEED HELP DECIDING?
Every project is different. We’ll assess your vehicle, goals, and markets, then guide you to the most efficient approval route.
We execute IVA (Article 44 & 45) directly from A-Z and work with trusted partners for WVTA and Small Series when required.