Importing and Registering a Vehicle in France: A Complete Guide

If you are moving to France or purchasing a car from abroad, importing and registering a vehicle in France can seem like a complex process. This guide will walk you through the key steps, legal requirements, and documentation needed to ensure a smooth registration process.

Step 1: Understanding Import Regulations in France

Before bringing your vehicle into France, you must ensure it meets French vehicle import regulations. These regulations depend on whether the car is imported from an EU country or a non-EU country:

• EU Vehicle Imports: The process is generally easier as no customs duties apply, but you still need to follow administrative procedures.
• Non-EU Vehicle Imports: Importing a car from outside the EU requires additional paperwork, customs clearance, and payment of import duties.

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC) for Register a Vehicle in France

A Certificate of Conformity (Certificat de Conformité COC) is required to prove that the vehicle complies with French and EU road standards. If your vehicle was purchased in an EU country, the manufacturer can provide this document. However, the easiest way to obtain a COC for your imported vehicle is to order it from Car-COC.com, a trusted provider of official Certificates of Conformity.

For non-EU vehicles, an individual approval from the DREAL (Direction Régionale de l’Environnement, de l’Aménagement et du Logement) may be required.

Step 3: Pay VAT and Customs Duties (If Applicable)

• EU Imports: If the vehicle is brand new or less than six months old, VAT (TVA – Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée) at 20% must be paid to the French tax office (Centre des Impôts des Entreprises).
• Non-EU Imports: Vehicles from outside the EU are subject to customs duties (10%) and VAT (20%), payable at the point of entry.

Step 4: Obtain a Quitus Fiscal

A Quitus Fiscal is a tax clearance certificate issued by the French tax authorities. It confirms that no additional VAT is due for vehicles purchased within the EU. To obtain it, you will need:

• Purchase invoice or sales contract
• Registration documents from the country of origin
• Proof of residence in France

Step 5: Register the Vehicle in France with the ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés)

All vehicle registration applications in France are processed online through the ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) website. Required documents include:

• Proof of identity (passport or national ID)
• Proof of residence (utility bill or rental agreement)
• Certificate of Conformity (COC) (Order from Car-COC.com)
• Quitus Fiscal
• Original registration certificate from the previous country
• Valid insurance certificate
• Contrôle Technique (Roadworthiness Test) for vehicles older than 4 years

Once submitted, the Carte Grise (French vehicle registration certificate) will be issued.

Step 6: Obtain French License Plates

After receiving your Carte Grise, you need to purchase and install French license plates. These are available from approved plate manufacturers.

Step 7: Update Your Car Insurance

Car insurance in France is mandatory. Ensure that your policy covers the minimum third-party liability insurance. Many insurers offer additional coverage options such as comprehensive insurance and breakdown assistance.

Conclusion… For Register a Vehicle in France

Importing and registering a vehicle in France involves multiple steps, from customs clearance to obtaining a registration certificate. By following this guide, you can ensure a hassle-free process and comply with French vehicle regulations. Whether you are importing a car from the EU or outside the EU, being well-prepared will help you navigate the registration process smoothly.

For up-to-date information, always check with ANTS, DREAL, and the French tax office to avoid any unexpected complications. Don’t forget to order your Certificate of Conformity (COC) from Car-COC.com to speed up the registration process.