Lost your vehicle registration certificate (gray card)?
Don't panic. Whether due to moving, misfortune, or simple absent-mindedness, obtaining a duplicate of your vehicle registration certificate in Belgium is a simple and quick procedure. Here's everything you need to know.
What is the vehicle registration certificate?
The registration certificate, also called gray card or pink slip, is the official document that certifies your vehicle is registered in Belgium. It contains:
- Your vehicle's license plate number
- The chassis number (VIN)
- Owner information
- Vehicle technical specifications
- Date of first registration
Without this document, you cannot prove your vehicle's legality. It is therefore essential to replace it quickly.
When to request a duplicate?
You must request a duplicate registration certificate in the following cases:
- Loss of original document: misplaced during a move, stolen from the car, etc.
- Damage: worn, illegible or torn document
- Theft of certificate: prior declaration recommended
- Destruction: document burned, soaked or accidentally destroyed
Important: If you still have a plate in the old format and it is not personalized, you must request a re-registration (new plate) and cancel the old one. The duplicate does not apply in this case.
Steps to obtain a duplicate
Step 1: Log in to SPF Mobility
Go to the SPF Mobility website. You can make the request:
- Online: with your electronic ID card (eID) - fastest method
- At the counter: at a DIV office
- By mail: form to download from the SPF website
Step 2: Fill out the request
Select "Request duplicate registration certificate". You will need to provide:
- Your license plate number
- Your chassis number (if you know it)
- A valid ID document
- Reason for the request (loss, theft, damage)
Step 3: Pay the fees
The cost of the duplicate is set by Royal Decree:
| Document type | Price |
|---|---|
| Duplicate registration certificate | €26 |
| Standard registration certificate (new registration) | Included in tax |
Step 4: Receive your document
- Standard delay: 2 to 5 business days
- Delivery: to your home or at a post office
- Payment on delivery: exact cash to the driver, or card at post office
You can track the shipment via bpost's Track & Trace with your request reference.
What if you have moved?
If you have changed address, the bpost Moving Service does not transfer your registration certificate. The document will be delivered to the address indicated during your SPF request. Make sure to update your address in your SPF Mobility profile.
Required documents according to your situation
| Situation | Required documents |
|---|---|
| Simple loss | eID, license plate number |
| Theft | eID, police report, license plate number |
| Damage | eID, old certificate (if possible), photos |
| Change of owner | Sales contract, eID of new owner |
Timeline and urgency
If you need your registration certificate urgently (selling vehicle, imminent technical inspection), note that:
- Online requests are processed within 24 to 48 hours
- bpost delivery adds 2 to 5 business days
- There is no specific urgent procedure for certificates (unlike plates at €110)
Plan for at least one week to receive your duplicate.
Take the opportunity to check your license plates!
While you're handling administrative procedures, it's the perfect time to inspect the condition of your license plates. Ask yourself:
- Are my plates still clearly readable from 20 meters?
- Are the characters chipped or faded?
- Does the reflective background still work at night?
- Is the front plate properly attached?
Why check your plates now?
A deteriorated plate can result in:
- A €116 fine during a check
- Refusal at technical inspection
- Vehicle immobilization until regularization
Rather than waiting for a bad surprise, anticipate!
Order your new plates at Clic Plaque
If your plates show signs of wear, take advantage of your SPF procedure to replace them. At Clic Plaque:
- ✓ Competitive price: aluminum plates from €12.50 (vs €30 official channel)
- ✓ Guaranteed compliance: 100% legal and SPF approved
- ✓ Belgian manufacturing: premium aluminum quality
- ✓ Fast delivery: 24-48h, same timeframe as your certificate
- ✓ Durability: 10 to 15 years without yellowing
Advantages of aluminum
Unlike plastic that fades in 2-3 years, our aluminum plates maintain their new appearance for years. It's an investment that avoids failed technical inspections and fines.
FAQ duplicate registration certificate
Can I drive without my registration certificate?
No. You must always be able to present this document during a check. However, if you have requested a duplicate, keep the proof of submission (email or receipt) with you.
Does the duplicate have the same value as the original?
Yes, completely. The duplicate is a fully official document. The old certificate is automatically invalidated in the SPF system to prevent fraud.
What if I find my old certificate?
Throw it away. It is no longer valid once the duplicate is issued. Using an invalid certificate can result in penalties.
Can I request a duplicate for someone else?
No, only the certificate holder (or their legal representative) can make the request. For a company, an authorized person must present company documents.
Cost summary
| Service | Price | Via |
|---|---|---|
| Duplicate registration certificate | €26 | SPF Mobility + bpost |
| Clic Plaque aluminum plate (rear) | €12.50 | Clic Plaque |
| Pair of plates (front + rear) | €25 | Clic Plaque |
| Bpost delivery | €4.95 | Clic Plaque |
Expert advice: Make both requests simultaneously (certificate + plates) to receive everything in the same timeframe and leave with peace of mind!
Questions about your plates? Our Belgian support responds by chat or email within 2 hours.