Home › Technical Training › SERMI 2025: A Complete Guide
Updated — by Gianni Tritella . From February 1, 2025, SERMI certification regulates access to vehicle security information and functions (immobilizer, key coding, anti-theft, control units). In this guide, you will find requirements , certifying bodies (CAB) , documents , costs , procedures , benefits, and FAQs, with practical advice for avoiding service blockages at workshops.
📥 DOWNLOAD THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO SERMI CERTIFICATION (PDF)
Technical and operational manual for workshops and technicians: requirements, procedures with CABs (RINA, DEKRA, KIWA, Bureau Veritas, SGS), document checklists, costs, inspections, and post-certification best practices. Perfect for preparing and passing the process smoothly.
- Complete company/technicians checklist (documents, liability insurance, criminal records, training).
- Step-by-step guide to the application: registration, uploading, evaluation, and issuing credentials.
- Real- time cost , ROI , and RMI-compliant activity log templates.
- Post-certification protocols , inspections, non-compliance management, privacy/GDPR.
✅ What is SERMI and why is it mandatory?
SERMI (Security-Related Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information) is the European scheme that enables independent operators to securely and traceably access sensitive vehicle functions and data (anti-theft devices, immobilizers, key/control unit coding). In Italy, the requirement has been in force since February 1, 2025 .
Main objectives
- Data protection and prevention of abuse of security systems.
- Uniform procedures in Europe: a single profile for all manufacturer portals.
- Periodic checks: audits and inspections to ensure compliance and traceability .
👷♀️ Who needs to get certified
Certification is required for:
- Independent mechanical workshops and auto electricians/diagnostics that work on immobilizers, keys, and control units.
- ADAS and electronic safety systems repairers and integrators.
- Remote Service Providers (RSS) who provide remote programming/coding services.
🏛 Certification Bodies (CAB) in Italy
CABs are the bodies authorized to certify SERMI. Examples currently present on the Italian market include: RINA , DEKRA , Kiwa , and Bureau Veritas (others may be added). Before starting the process, always check the updated list on the official portal and contact the chosen CAB for deadlines and forms.
🧾 Requirements and necessary documents
Company (Workshop / IO or RSS)
- Registration in the Company Register and updated Chamber of Commerce certificate .
- Liability insurance policy consistent with the activity (adequate limits).
- Internal data security and protection contacts and procedures .
Technicians/Operators
- Identity and criminal record with no pending charges.
- Documentable employment relationship (contract and pay slip).
- Technical diploma or ≥ 2 years of experience in the auto repair sector.
🧭 Step-by-step procedure
- Choose the CAB (verify presence in Italy and release times).
- Upload company and operator documentation to the CAB platform.
- Document evaluation and possible on-site (or remote) audit .
- If eligible: issuance of digital certificate , unique credentials and MFA tools.
- Valid for 5 years with periodic maintenance inspections .
Post-certification obligations
- Maintain an RMI log of activities on security systems.
- Maintain privacy procedures and ongoing staff training .
- Collaborate with inspections and updates required by the CAB.
💶 Indicative costs and agreements
- Initial investment : on average a few hundred euros (varies by CAB, workshop size, number of operators).
- Support services (associations/networks) can offer preferential packages and discounts.
- Evaluate territorial agreements (e.g. CNA) to reduce costs and time.
🏁 Benefits for the workshop
- Legal and direct access to manufacturers' security features with a single profile.
- Competitiveness : keys, immobilizers and coding managed independently and securely.
- Protection for customers and suppliers thanks to certified and tracked processes.
📊 Quick summary
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Obligation in Italy | From February 1, 2025 |
| Certificate duration | 5 years + maintenance inspections |
| CAB (IT examples) | RINA, DEKRA, Kiwa, Bureau Veritas (check updated list) |
| Key documents | Certificate of occupational health, civil liability, criminal record, contract/pay slip, qualification or experience ≥ 2 years |
| Advantages | Access to manufacturer portals, compliance, traceability, customer trust |
🧰 Ready-to-use checklist
- Select a CAB and download the forms.
- Prepares the company report , liability insurance policy , criminal record , contracts and qualifications/experience .
- Upload documents and schedule the audit .
- Train staff and activate privacy procedures .
- Prepare the RMI register and check the guidelines on the manufacturer portals.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I operate immobilizers and keys without SERMI?
No. From 2025, access to the security functions of the manufacturer portals requires an active and tracked SERMI profile.
How long does it take to get certified?
It depends on the CAB and the completeness of the documents. On average, it takes a few weeks from the completed application to the audit.
Is the certificate valid for all car manufacturers?
Yes: the profile is recognized on the portals of the manufacturers participating in the scheme, with a single identity and MFA.
How is the certificate maintained over time?
With periodic inspections , continuous training, updated RMI register and compliance with privacy procedures.
Are there any discounts or deals?
Yes: trade associations and networks can offer discounted packages or documentary support.
📌 Conclusions
SERMI is now an integral part of workshop operations: it enables advanced and tracked interventions on safety systems, protects customers, and ensures compliance . Preparing documents, processes, and training in advance allows you to avoid operational downtime and offer high-quality services on modern vehicles.
