Registering Your Own Car in the UK
Moving to the UK or residing there long-term with your own car from abroad requires certain legal procedures, with vehicle registration being the most important among them. This is necessary to ensure the lawful use of the car on British roads. The process of registering such a vehicle may seem complex due to document requirements, inspections, and other formalities. However, knowing all the necessary steps and requirements can make this process significantly easier and faster.
Paying VAT and Customs Duties
Paying import duty is the first thing to do when someone plans to live in the UK and crosses the border with their car. This needs to be carefully considered beforehand, as there are various exceptional situations when this may not be required. For example, currently, there is an exemption for Ukrainians entering the UK under the Ukrainians scheme: they can drive their car without re-registering it for up to three years.
Vehicle Inspection
After paying duties and VAT, the car undergoes a check for compliance with European Union standards. For cars meeting these standards, a plate or sticker will be issued. To successfully pass this inspection, individual vehicle approval (IVA) for the UK must be obtained. This process consists of two stages: submitting necessary documents to the Driver and Vehicle Certification Agency (DVCA) and vehicle assessment (for compliance with UK legislation standards and vehicle lighting). If the assessment is unfavorable, modifications must be made to the car to meet the standards.
Separate rules apply to vehicles not meeting the standards but less than 10 years old. In such cases, the same IVA certificate must be obtained, but from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). If the vehicle is a motorcycle, owners must obtain a Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) document.
For vehicles older than ten years, instead of an IVA certificate, a confirmed vehicle technical inspection is required. This can be done by any certified specialist providing technical maintenance.
Registering the Vehicle with DVLA
After completing these procedures and obtaining the necessary documents, registration must continue with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) to obtain British license plates. First, the V55/5 form must be filled out (available on the official website of the UK government) and then sent to the DVLA. It may take approximately six weeks to receive the vehicle registration certificate (V5C).
Registering a car with foreign registration plates is a rather complex procedure requiring strong focus. Lawyers working on the legal marketplace "Consultant" will help navigate all legal nuances and requirements related to vehicle imports. They will ensure the correct completion of all necessary documents. A lawyer can also help avoid potential legal problems and fines that may arise from non-compliance with local laws. Thus, consulting a lawyer will allow you to focus on other aspects of moving or staying in the UK.
