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ECE R-161
Protection Against Unauthorised Use (Locking System)
Applies to
M, N
Topic
Cyber & software
Framework
UN ECE
Velocert services
European
Overview
UN Regulation No 161 lays down uniform provisions on protecting motor vehicles against unauthorized use and on approving the device against unauthorized use by means of a locking system. Its annexes cover test procedures for devices acting on the steering, and electromagnetic compatibility.
Current series: the original version, Supplement 5 (in force 26 September 2025); this summary is based on the version published on EUR-Lex, the original version (2021). GlobalAutoRegs also lists Supplement 6 with no entry-into-force date. Checked on GlobalAutoRegs, 1 November 2026. For the current text, see the UN (UNECE) page.
Scope
It applies to the approval of vehicles of categories M1 and N1 with regard to their devices to prevent unauthorized use. Fitting them to other categories is optional, but any device fitted must comply. It does not apply to radio transmission frequencies.
The regulation applies to the following vehicle categories:
M
Passenger vehicles
N
Goods vehicles
Official source
For the requirements of this regulation, refer to the official text in force and its amendments.
Official UNECE text