What is European ECE Certification?

E-mark certification, also known as ECE certification, stands for Economic Commission of Europe (ECE), with "ECE" being its abbreviation. According to the provisions of the ECE Regulation, vehicle parts and components that are either exported to the markets of European Economic Commission (ECE) member states or supplied as original equipment for vehicles must undergo testing and production consistency audits by an authorized body. Once the ECE certification is obtained and the E-mark is affixed, these products are permitted for sale in the member states' markets.

Scope of Products Applicable for ECE Certification

1. Vehicle Components 

These are essential parts required to assemble a vehicle, such as vehicle lamps, mirrors, seat belts, fuel tanks, glass, horns, interior parts, and tires.

2. Accessories 

These are additional items that can be installed on a vehicle, such as triangular warning signs, reflective stickers, parking sensors, child car seats, and in-car chargers.

About the European Economic Commission (ECE)

The European Economic Commission is not a European Union agency but one of the five regional commissions under the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Its primary responsibility is to promote economic cooperation among member states. Currently, the commission comprises 56 members, including countries from Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, the United States, Canada, Israel, and Central Asia. The headquarters of the commission is located in Geneva, Switzerland.

However, countries like the United States and Canada do not recognize ECE certification. They have their own technical standards for vehicle components, such as FMVSS & SAE in the U.S., which require DOT certification.

ECE Regulation and Certification Issuance

With numerous member countries, the ECE Regulation ensures uniform standards. However, ECE certificates are issued by various institutions, mainly from EU member states, and are managed by each country's transportation authority. Since each country's certification requirements may vary, the ECE certification timeline and costs may differ slightly.

Certification Process

The E/e-mark certification process generally includes the following six steps:

1. Submitting an Application 

Submit the E/e-mark certification application form to the transportation department of an EU member state.

2. Preparing Documentation 

Prepare the required certification materials as per the requirements of the transportation department.

3. Type Testing and Report Preparation 

Test product samples according to the E/e-mark certification standards and compile a report of the test data.

4. Production Consistency (COP) Inspection 

Conduct a factory inspection to ensure consistent production quality across product batches.

5. Submitting for Review 

Submit the complete test report and factory inspection results to the issuing transportation department for review.

6. Certificate Issuance 

Upon successful review of the report and documentation, the transportation department of an EU member state issues the E-mark certificate.