Autel SDRM Resource Center

Helping You Prepare for Upcoming SDRM Validation

As the automotive industry continues to address growing concerns surrounding vehicle theft and unauthorized vehicle access, new security measures are being introduced across the industry.

As part of these industry-wide efforts, Autel will begin implementing the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) Secure Data Release Model (SDRM) validation across its line of IM and key programming tools.

Autel’s planned rollout schedule begins with the KM100 in the third quarter of 2026, followed by the MaxiIM IM508 Series and MaxiIM IM608 Series in future phases.

Autel remains committed to supporting the professional locksmiths, automotive technicians, and vehicle security specialists who rely on our IM and key programming tools every day. We recognize that changes to security procedures can raise questions, which is why we’ve created this Resource Center.

Here you’ll find an overview of SDRM, rollout information, answers to frequently asked questions, and links to official NASTF resources to help you prepare before these requirements are introduced.

What is SDRM?

In 2024, aftermarket tool manufacturers began implementing NASTF’s Secure Data Release Model (SDRM), a security validation system already used by automakers to authenticate security-related transactions performed through their factory diagnostic applications. The expansion of SDRM to aftermarket tools is intended to help reduce vehicle theft involving aftermarket tools and discourage the theft and illicit use of security-capable tools.

For most supported transactions, users simply enter:

• Their NASTF Vehicle Security Professional (VSP) ID
• A passcode generated by NASTF’s multi-factor authentication app

The transaction is then validated and logged within NASTF’s SDRM database.

What Functions Require SDRM Validation?

According to NASTF, scan tool security validation applies to supported security functions including:

• Add a Key
• All Keys Lost (AKL)
• Immobilizer Functions

Additional vehicle security-related functions may also utilize SDRM validation depending on the tool and application.

How Do I Prepare?

If you use Autel IM or key programming tools to perform vehicle security-related services, Autel encourages you to become familiar with the NASTF Vehicle Security Professional (VSP) program before SDRM validation is introduced on supported tools.

Information about eligibility, required documentation, application instructions, and support resources is available directly from NASTF.

We’re Here to Help

While NASTF manages the Vehicle Security Professional (VSP) registration and credentialing process, Autel Technical Support is available to answer questions about your Autel IM and key programming tools, software updates, compatibility, and SDRM implementation.

For questions regarding:

• VSP eligibility
• Registration
• Application requirements
• Credential status
• NASTF policies

Please contact NASTF directly.