New SERMI rules coming soon
Independent workshops and technicians will soon have to come to grips with new EU rules governing professionals working on vehicle security and immobilisation systems across Europe.
SERMI certification in Ireland ensures compliance with EU cybersecurity regulations, requiring proof of company status, Garda vetting, liability insurance, and Level 6 qualifications, with the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) and SGS Ireland acting as Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs).
Key Requirements for Irish Garages & Technicians
- Documentation: Proof of identity, proof of business address, and proof of active registration/incorporation.
- Insurance: Valid liability insurance covering security-related repairs.
- Garda Vetting: Proof of Garda vetting (or criminal record check) for all employees requesting access.
- Qualification: Evidence of technical competence, generally at least a Level 6 qualification or equivalent
- Compliance Statement: A signed declaration ensuring the workshop does not engage in illegal activities such as odometer fraud.
Process and Costs
It is understood that it will cost between €350 – €500 for the company and €120 per employee for a five-year certification validity. Although already implemented in many EU countries, SERMI is currently being phased into Ireland.
Certification under the SERMI scheme – covering accreditation, approval and authorisation to access security-related repair and maintenance information – is set to becomes mandatory for all professionals working on vehicle security and immobilisation systems across Europe.
Only certified professionals will be able to access secure vehicle data and perform repairs on security components. This regulation enhances cybersecurity, prevents unauthorised access and ensures that only authorised professionals handle sensitive vehicle information.
SERMI (short for Security-related vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information) is a European certification system that regulates access to vehicle OBD – On Board Diagnostics and RMI – Repair and Maintenance Information and to prevent the misuse of the information.