Italy's historic vehicle certificate (CRS) and ASI: what to know before restoring
· 5 min read
In short
Italy's certificate of historic and collector interest (CRS) confirms that a vehicle at least 20 years old is of historic interest. It is issued by recognised registers such as ASI, Registro Storico Fiat, Registro Italiano Alfa Romeo and Registro Storico Lancia. It opens up dedicated insurance and reductions in Italian vehicle tax. It requires faithfulness to the original, so the restoration must be planned that way from the start.
What the CRS is
If you keep a classic in Italy or buy one with Italian papers, you'll come across the certificato di rilevanza storica e collezionistica (CRS). It confirms a vehicle's historic interest and can be requested for cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles at least 20 years old. It is issued by recognised registers: ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano), Registro Storico Fiat, Registro Italiano Alfa Romeo and Registro Storico Lancia; for motorcycles also the FMI.
It is different from the ASI identity certificate, the club's most complete recognition, and the Targa Oro, reserved for outstanding vehicles.
The benefits
- Insurance: dedicated policies for historic vehicles, often cheaper.
- Italian vehicle tax: vehicles aged 20 to 29 with a CRS get a 50% national reduction; from 30 years there is usually no annual tax, just a reduced flat fee when the vehicle is used. Regions may apply different rules.
- Value: a certified vehicle is worth more and is easier to sell, including abroad.
Originality first
The committees check that the vehicle matches the original: body, colours, interior, engine and details. Modern wheels, non-catalogue colours or the wrong interior can be enough for a refusal. A restored vehicle can get the certificate, if the restoration was done well.
A restoration planned for the certificate
- Research into the colours, fabrics and trim of the model and year.
- Original parts kept and restored where possible.
- Chassis numbers and plates respected and documented.
- A complete photo book before, during and after: useful for the application too.
We also handle ASI paperwork and prepare the vehicle for inspection. In Switzerland the same thinking applies to veteran status.
Frequently asked questions
From what age can a CRS be requested?
From the twentieth year after the vehicle was built.
Can a restored vehicle get a CRS?
Yes, if the restoration is true to the original in body, colours, interior and mechanics.
Does it apply to vintage trucks too?
Yes, commercial vehicles can be certified too, and the restoration follows the same criteria.
