The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group welcomes today’s vote in the Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) in favour of new rules to digitalise vehicle registration documents and improve the quality and interoperability of national vehicle registers across the European Union.

ECR shadow rapporteur Adrian Axinia said:

“Citizens and businesses expect simpler procedures, clearer rules and stronger safeguards against fraud. We are making vehicle registration more efficient and easier.”

The adopted framework, led by the ECR, accelerates the transition from paper-based to electronic registration systems, while preserving practical flexibility for citizens and Member States. The ECR Group ensured that individuals will continue to have the right to request paper documents where necessary, and that simplified procedures remain available at national level.

Axinia added:

“This is about getting the basics right. Better data, better cooperation and real interoperability between Member States will make everyday processes like buying or re-registering a car across borders more straightforward and more secure.”

The new rules introduce QR codes on registration certificates and significantly improve the scope and reliability of data held in national registers. This includes clearer information on ownership, document holders, vehicle status including suspension or temporary deregistration, and emerging elements such as automated vehicle functions. Citizens will also benefit from free digital access to their own vehicle registration data.

At the same time, the framework strengthens cooperation between Member States to tackle cross-border fraud, including odometer manipulation and the trafficking of stolen or improperly documented vehicles.

“By improving legal clarity and enabling easier mutual recognition of registration certificates, the reform will make cross-border re-registration simpler and more efficient”, Axinia said.

For the ECR Group, the focus remains on practical solutions that reduce administrative complexity while strengthening trust and legal certainty across the Single Market.

The vote passed with 39 in favour, 1 against, and 1 abstention.