Please Note

On 26th August 2025 the DVLA announced key policy changes in relation to the registration of Classic and Historic Vehicles.
Key policy highlights:

New policies for repairs, restorations and structural modifications that replace the former modified and radically altered policy and the points system

No change at present to policies for kit-built, kit-converted and reconstructed classic vehicles. These will be evaluated as part of the next stage

Recognition for the repair and restoration of older vehicles and clearer guidance on what constitutes repair and restoration for DVLA purposes. https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-registration/repairs-restorations

New Guidance INF318 replaces the former INF26

New Form V627/3 ‘Modified Vehicle Statement’ specifically for notifications of structural modifications

Updated Form V627/1, renamed ‘Vehicle Parts Statement’ for notifying of a reconstructed classic, kit conversion, kit-built vehicle, like-for-like replacement chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles)

Many popular upgrades and limited modifications are now permitted as part of the new Repairs and Restorations category and do not require DVLA notification

More substantial changes, including EV conversions, now fall under the new Structurally Modified category. Vehicle VIN identity and original or age-related registration is retained, and no IVA/MVSA is required, provided vehicle identity is not in doubt. MOT exemption for vehicles over 40 years falling into this category is removed.

Existing Government policy means that EV conversions on vehicles first registered after March 2001 cannot have their vehicle tax code changed and will retain the original CO2 based tax band.

Owners who are unhappy with the previous treatment of their registration number claim may now reapply under the new rules, and there is no time limitation on this. DVLA aim to process all applications within four weeks, but asks for patience initially due to an expected spike in applications.

The below is from before the DVLA announcement and should not currently be followed.

The HCVA’s comprehensive guide to registering your classic or historic vehicle under the new policy will be published here shortly.

​About » ​Registering your Classic Vehicle

Registering your Historic or Classic Vehicle

Use this clear guidance to help you successfully navigate what you need to do to correctly register your historic or classic vehicle with the DVLA. Remember that the HCVA is here to assist.

V55/5 Simple Guide

Select your Vehicle Type:

  • Original Vehicles

    An original existing car with a proven supporting history, that is not currently registered with the DVLA.

    The vehicle may have been subject to a light restoration such as minor body repairs, a respray or retrim but will have retained all of its factory-fitted major components.

  • Rebuilt & Restored Vehicles

    An original vehicle that has been subject to a subtantial restoration.
     

    Typically a number of the major components from the original vehicle have been retained and restored with only relatively minor use of new components.

  • Reconstructed Classics

    For vehicles without an assignable VIN or that does not meet the criteria for Rebuilt & Restored Vehicles.

    Built from genuine period components from more than one vehicle, all over 25 years old and of the same specification as the original vehicle. It must be a true reflection of the marque.

  • Radically Altered Vehicles

    Vehicles that have been radically altered or substantially changed from their original specification but have not used any type of kit in the alteration.

    Substantial changes have been made to the vehicle in the last 30 years, for example replacing the chassis, body, axles or engine to change the way the vehicle works.

  • Kit Converted Vehicles

    A kit-converted vehicle has a kit of new parts added to an existing vehicle, or old parts added to a new kit.

    The general appearance of the vehicle will change because of the kit.

  • Kit Built Vehicles

    A kit-built vehicle is one where all the parts are supplied new by the manufacturer.

    It can also be built from a mix of parts supplied new by the manufacturer and other parts sourced elsewhere.

Best Practice Guidance

  • Substantially Changed Vehicles & MOTs

    You do not need to get an MOT if the vehicle was built or first registered more than 40 years ago and no ‘substantial changes’ have been made to the vehicle in the last 30 years, for example replacing the chassis, body, axles or engine to change the way the vehicle works.

     

  • Q Plates & VINs Explained

     
    DVLA issues their own 17 digit replacement VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and/or  ‘Q’ registration numbers to vehicles whose age or identity is in doubt.

    If this happens, any original vehicle registration number will become invalid and you must not display it again.

  • Complaints and Grievance Options

    This is an overview of the DVLA Commitment which covers their duties to you if you complain about a level of service that you have received. 

    There is also information about the issue of a new registration document for your reference.