What is SERMI and how does it work?

SERMI stands for Secure Repair and Maintenance Information and is an EU-wide system that regulates access to sensitive vehicle information, such as key programming and anti-theft systems.

From October 2023, all independent workshops and technicians who want to work with security-related functions must be certified via SERMI. The certification ensures that only authorized persons gain access to information that otherwise has only been available to brand-authorized workshops.

This creates fair conditions, protects vehicle owners’ data, and makes repairs safer, whether you choose a brand workshop or an independent operator.

What is IO SERMI and what is RSS SERMI?

In the SERMI system (Secure Repair and Maintenance Information), there are two important concepts to know: IO and RSS.

IO stands for Independent Operator, meaning an independent actor, for example an independent car workshop, an auto electrician or a technician working with anti-theft and car key programming. To gain access to protected information, these actors must be certified as IO according to SERMI. This means that they have undergone a security screening and have been approved to work with sensitive systems in modern vehicles. ( The car is in the workshop)

RSS stands for Repair and Maintenance Information Security Scheme, which is the formal name for the entire regulation that governs how SERMI works. RSS describes how the certification is to be done, what requirements apply, how identity is verified and how access to protected information must take place securely. ( The car is remote )

In short:

IO SERMI is the one certified to work with the vehicle’s security systems.

RSS SERMI is the rules that govern how it may be done.

Who can get SERMI?

SERMI certification is open to both companies and individual technicians who work with security-related functions in vehicles – but there are clear requirements.

Those who can be certified as IO (Independent Operator) include for example:

*Independent car workshops

*Diagnostic technicians and auto electricians

*Locksmiths who work with cars

*Specialists in key programming and electronic vehicle systems

To obtain SERMI certification, the following is required:

*That the business is registered and legal

*That technicians have relevant competence or experience

*That both company and staff pass a background check

*That one can handle sensitive information securely and correctly

*The goal of SERMI is to create fair conditions in the industry, where both brand-authorized workshops and independent operators have the opportunity to work with modern vehicles, as long as they meet the requirements.