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The directive applies to any procedure for authenticating cultural property conducted under the aegis of OIMAP or a Member State. It defines cultural property, authentication, the expert, the opinion and the file.

It lays down the principle of mutual recognition: an opinion given in accordance with the directive is recognised by all Member States, without any mandatory new expert assessment.

The examination is conducted by an accredited expert, appointed impartially. The expert declares conflicts of interest, withdraws in case of doubt and applies the code of ethics.

Articles 8 to 10 govern appointment by drawing lots, challenge at the applicant's request and replacement of the expert in case of impediment.

Analyses are proportionate to the work, its value and what is at stake. Non-invasive techniques are preferred; any sample requires the owner's written consent and full documentation.

Laboratories must be accredited, independent and subject to interlaboratory comparisons. Their reports state the limits of the methods.

The opinion is written, reasoned and expresses a degree of certainty among five defined levels. It states the sources, the analyses and the reservations.

The file is kept for the whole life of the work in the Registry. Corrections are added without erasing what exists. The applicant has access to their file on request.

Any applicant may request a review within thirty days, then refer the matter to the Arbitral Tribunal. States transpose the directive within two years and report annually.

The directive is reviewed every five years. It enters into force on the date set by the 2019 General Assembly.