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Certification
Certification is the final step in the type-approval process. After testing has been completed by a Technical Service, RDW assesses whether the vehicle, system, or component complies with all applicable legal and technical requirements. If these requirements are met, RDW issues the official type-approval certificate.
Benefits of a RDW type approval certificate
RDW acts as both type approval authority and Technical Service, ensuring an efficient and reliable certification process with transparent lead times and costs.
A RDW type approval certificate:
- grants access to the EU market and/or UN (ECE) contracting parties,
- confirms compliance at the time of approval,
- forms the basis for conformity of production.
Types of certificates
RDW issues different types of certificates that enable access to the European and UNECE markets.
Component type approval (E4/e4)
Component certificates apply to individual vehicle components or systems, such as lighting, braking, and steering.
- E4 approvals are issued under UNECE regulations.
- e4 approvals are issued under EU legislation.
These certificates confirm compliance with safety, environmental, and performance requirements. The number “4” indicates that the approval is issued by the Netherlands.
Whole Vehicle Type Approval
A Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) applies to complete vehicles. It confirms that the vehicle meets all applicable European safety and environmental requirements. Once granted, the approval is recognised by all EU Member States, allowing vehicles to be placed on the market and registered across the EU without additional technical testing.
More information
For more information on RDW's type approval services, technical service designation, or support with recalls, please contact our team.