How To Register A Left Hand Drive Car In UK: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re a car enthusiast who has just bought a left-hand drive vehicle and is looking to register it in the United Kingdom, then you’re in the right place! Registering a left-hand drive car in the UK can be a complicated process, but with our comprehensive guide, we’ve got you covered.

From the documents you need to the requirements you must meet, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about registering a left-hand drive car in the UK.

Whether you’re importing a car or have already bought a left-hand drive car in the UK, this guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to register it. So, sit tight, and let’s dive into the world of registering a left-hand drive car in the UK!

Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to register a left-hand drive car in the UK and ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Step By Step Guide On Registering A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

Registering a left-hand drive car in the UK can be a daunting process. However, by following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth registration process. Firstly, you need to check if the car meets the UK vehicle standards. This includes emissions and safety regulations.

Once you have confirmed that your car meets the standards, you need to get it insured. You will need to provide proof of insurance when registering your car. You can choose from third-party, third-party fire and theft, and comprehensive insurance options.

After obtaining insurance, you need to obtain a Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) for your car. You can obtain this from the country you bought the car from. If you have owned the car for more than six months, you will also need a MOT certificate.

The next step is to take your car to a registered UK conversion company. They will need to convert your car to meet UK road standards. This includes changing the headlights, speedometer, and mirrors to suit UK roads.

Once your car has been converted, you need to apply for a Vehicle Approval Certificate (VAC). This certificate confirms that your car is roadworthy and safe to drive in the UK. You can apply for this certificate from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

By following these steps, you can ensure that your left-hand drive car is registered and ready to drive on UK roads. Although the process may seem complicated, it can be easily navigated with proper planning and research.

Step 1: Prepare The Vehicle

1. Check the car’s emissions – Before you can register your left-hand drive vehicle in the UK, you need to ensure that it meets the country’s emissions standards. Contact your manufacturer to get a certificate of conformity or a statement of compliance, which confirms that the vehicle complies with EU emissions standards.

2. Make sure the car is roadworthy – The car must be roadworthy, meaning it has passed the required safety tests. You can check this by getting a valid MOT certificate, which is issued by an approved testing center in the UK. Make sure that the car’s headlights are adjusted correctly for driving on the left-hand side of the road.

3. Ensure the car has the right-hand drive features – If your vehicle was manufactured for use in a country where traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road, you will need to make sure it has the necessary features to meet UK road regulations. These include a speedometer that displays miles per hour, and the headlights that dip to the left.

Once you have ensured that your left-hand drive vehicle meets the necessary standards, you can move on to the next step of the registration process.

Step 2: Get The Car Inspected

After preparing your vehicle, the next step is to get it inspected by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You can either book an appointment online or by phone, and the inspection usually takes about 45 minutes. During the inspection, the DVSA examiner will check the roadworthiness of your vehicle and make sure it meets UK safety and environmental standards.

Some of the items that the examiner will check include the brakes, lights, steering, suspension, and tires. Additionally, the emissions and noise levels will be measured to ensure they fall within the UK limits. If your car passes the inspection, you’ll receive a certificate of conformity (CoC) that confirms your car meets UK standards.

It’s worth noting that if your car is less than 10 years old, you might be able to avoid the DVSA inspection if it has a European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) certificate. The ECWVTA is a type approval process that applies to new cars sold within the European Union (EU) and ensures they meet the same safety and environmental standards across the EU.

If your car doesn’t have an ECWVTA certificate or is over 10 years old, you must get it inspected by the DVSA before you can register it with the DVLA.

Requirements For Registering A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

To register a left-hand drive car in the UK, there are certain requirements that you need to meet:

Proof of ownership: You will need to provide proof that you own the vehicle. This can be in the form of a bill of sale, registration certificate or a certificate of title.

MOT certificate: Your car will need to pass an MOT test to ensure that it is roadworthy. The test will check the car’s brakes, lights, suspension and other important components.

Vehicle Tax: You will need to pay vehicle tax for your left-hand drive car in the UK. The amount of tax you pay will depend on the car’s emissions and other factors.

Insurance: You will need to have valid insurance for your left-hand drive car. This will protect you against any accidents or damages that might occur on the road.

Requirement 1: Vehicle Age and Emissions Standards

To register a left-hand drive car in the UK, the first requirement is that the vehicle must meet certain age and emissions standards. The car must not be more than 10 years old from the date of its manufacture. Additionally, it must have a valid certificate of conformity, which confirms that the vehicle meets the EU emissions standards. This certificate is issued by the manufacturer and should be provided at the time of registration.

If the car does not have a certificate of conformity, it will need to undergo individual vehicle approval (IVA) testing to confirm that it meets the relevant emissions standards. The IVA test will also check the car’s overall roadworthiness and safety features.

It is important to note that different vehicles may have different emissions standards, depending on factors such as their fuel type and engine size. It is recommended to check with the UK government’s website for specific information on emissions standards for left-hand drive cars.

Requirement 2: Type Approval

Type approval is a mandatory certification that ensures the vehicle complies with certain technical and safety standards. If you want to register a left-hand drive car in the UK, it must have received European type approval (EC/EEC) or UK national small series type approval (NSSTA).

To obtain type approval, the manufacturer must provide evidence that the vehicle meets all necessary technical and safety requirements. This can include crash tests, emission tests, noise tests, and more. Once the vehicle has passed all the necessary tests, it will receive a type approval certificate.

If your left-hand drive car was originally manufactured outside of the UK and the EU, it may not have received type approval. In this case, you will need to obtain an individual vehicle approval (IVA) certificate, which is a more thorough inspection process that ensures the car meets UK standards.

It’s important to note that type approval requirements may vary depending on the age and category of the vehicle. It’s best to consult with a professional or check the DVSA website for more information on type approval requirements.

Requirement 3: VAT and Duty

VAT: Value Added Tax (VAT) is a tax that is added to goods and services sold in the UK. If you are importing a left hand drive car from outside the EU, you will need to pay VAT on the car.

Duty: Duty is a tax that is added to goods that are imported into the UK from outside the EU. The amount of duty that you will have to pay on a left hand drive car will depend on the value of the car and where it was manufactured.

Payment: You will need to pay both VAT and duty before your left hand drive car can be registered in the UK. You can pay these taxes online or by visiting a local tax office.

Exemptions: If you are moving to the UK and are bringing your left hand drive car with you, you may be exempt from paying VAT and duty. You will need to provide evidence that you have owned and used the car for at least six months before moving to the UK.

Importing And Registering A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

Importing a left-hand drive car into the UK can be a complex process, but it can be done successfully with the right information and planning.

Once you’ve successfully imported your left-hand drive car into the UK, the next step is to register it with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

It’s important to note that the process of importing and registering a left-hand drive car in the UK can take some time, so it’s important to plan ahead and have patience during the process.

Importing a Car from EU Countries

Step 1: Check if the car meets UK regulations and requirements.

Step 2: Pay any VAT and duty fees to HM Revenue and Customs.

Step 3: Get an emissions test and certificate, if necessary.

Step 4: Register the car with the DVLA and get UK license plates.

When importing a car from an EU country, you may also need to provide proof of purchase and ownership, as well as any relevant documents such as the vehicle registration certificate and insurance. It is important to research the specific requirements for your situation before beginning the importing process.

Importing a Car from Non-EU Countries

Customs and Excise Duties: When importing a car from a non-EU country, you will be required to pay customs and excise duties. The amount you pay will depend on the value of the car and its emissions levels.

Documentation: Before importing the car, you will need to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. This includes the vehicle registration document, bill of sale, and proof of insurance.

Vehicle Testing: Imported vehicles from non-EU countries will need to undergo testing to ensure they meet UK safety and environmental standards. The test includes an inspection of the car’s emissions, brakes, lights, and steering.

Registering an Imported Car in UK

Once you have imported your car to the UK, you need to register it with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You can do this online or by post. You will need to provide several documents, including proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and the car’s previous registration documents.

Additionally, if your car was manufactured outside the EU, it will need to undergo an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) inspection to ensure it meets UK safety and environmental standards. Once your car has passed the inspection, you will receive a Certificate of Conformity, which you will need to submit to the DVLA when registering your car.

You will also need to pay a registration fee, as well as any applicable taxes and customs duties. The exact amount will depend on the age and value of the car, as well as the country of origin.

After you have registered your car with the DVLA, you will be issued with a UK registration number, and you will need to display UK number plates on your car.

The Costs Involved In Registering A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

Registering a left-hand drive car in the UK can involve several costs. Import duty is payable on cars imported from outside the EU. The rate depends on the age and value of the vehicle. VAT is payable on all cars imported into the UK, including those from the EU. The rate is currently 20% of the car’s value. Registration fee is also payable to the DVLA when you register the car. The current fee for registering a passenger vehicle is £55.

If you are importing a car from the EU, you may need to pay an IVA test fee for a new or unregistered vehicle. The fee is currently £100. You may also have to pay for any necessary modifications required for your car to meet UK regulations, such as headlight conversion. It’s important to budget for these costs when considering importing a left-hand drive car to the UK.

Other costs involved in registering a left-hand drive car in the UK include insurance and any repairs or maintenance needed to bring the car up to UK standards. It’s a good idea to shop around for insurance, as premiums can vary widely depending on the make and model of the car, your driving history, and other factors. You may also need to factor in the cost of transporting the car to the UK.

Cost of Importing a Car to UK

Importing a car to the UK can be expensive, and there are several costs involved. The import duty charged on cars from non-EU countries is typically around 10% of the vehicle’s value. There is also a value-added tax (VAT) that is levied on the vehicle’s value and the shipping costs. The VAT rate in the UK is currently 20%, but this can vary depending on the country of origin of the car. Additionally, there may be customs clearance charges, as well as fees for shipping, transport, and insurance.

Once the car is in the UK, there are further costs to consider. To register the car, you will need to pay a vehicle registration tax, which is based on the car’s emissions and other factors. You will also need to purchase UK insurance and have the car inspected and tested to ensure it meets UK roadworthiness standards. Depending on the age and condition of the car, there may be additional costs for repairs or modifications to meet UK requirements.

Overall, the cost of importing a car to the UK can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the country of origin, the value and age of the car, and any additional fees or taxes. It is important to research these costs thoroughly before deciding to import a car to the UK.

It is recommended to seek advice from a professional import agent or customs broker, who can provide guidance on the various costs and procedures involved in importing a car to the UK.

Documents You Need To Register A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

If you’re planning to register a left-hand drive car in the UK, you’ll need to have several documents on hand to ensure a smooth process. The following are the necessary documents:

Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) – This document proves that you are the legal owner of the car and includes information such as the make, model, and registration number.

European Certificate of Conformity (CoC) – This document certifies that the vehicle meets the EU safety and environmental standards. If your car is from outside the EU, you’ll need to get a Certificate of Mutual Recognition instead.

Proof of Insurance – You’ll need to provide proof of insurance before registering your car. This could be in the form of an insurance certificate or cover note.

MOT Certificate – If your car is over three years old, it’ll need to have a valid MOT certificate.

ID and Address Verification – You’ll need to provide identification and proof of address, such as a passport or driving licence and a utility bill or bank statement.

V55/5 Form

V55/5 form is a crucial document that is required to register an imported car in the UK. This form is used for registering new or used vehicles from outside of the UK. You can download it from the DVLA website, and it requires information about the car, its origin, and the import tax that you have paid. The form also includes a section for declaring that the car meets the UK’s safety and environmental standards.

The V55/5 form requires various details, including the vehicle’s make, model, and registration number, along with the date of registration in the country of origin. You will also need to provide the car’s chassis number and engine number. In addition, you need to provide evidence of insurance and proof of ownership.

The V55/5 form must be completed and submitted to the DVLA along with the necessary fees and other documentation, including an MOT certificate and a certificate of conformity. The DVLA will then process your application and, if approved, issue you with a new UK registration number for your car.

It is essential to fill out the V55/5 form accurately and completely, as any errors or omissions can cause delays in the registration process. Once you have completed the form and submitted it to the DVLA, you can expect to receive your new registration certificate within a few weeks.

If you are unsure about how to fill out the V55/5 form, or if you have any questions about the registration process, you can contact the DVLA for guidance and assistance.

How Long Does It Take To Register A Left Hand Drive Car In UK?

Processing time: The time it takes to register a left-hand drive car in the UK varies depending on several factors, including the completeness of the application, the accuracy of the information provided, and the workload of the DVLA. Typically, the processing time can take between 2 to 6 weeks.

Inspection time: Before registering a left-hand drive car in the UK, it must undergo a mandatory vehicle inspection to ensure that it meets the UK’s roadworthiness standards. The inspection can take up to 3 hours, but it largely depends on the car’s make and model.

Document verification time: The DVLA verifies the documents submitted during the registration process. The time it takes to verify these documents can vary, depending on the workload of the DVLA and the complexity of the case. It can take up to 5 working days to verify the documents.

Delivery time: After the registration process is complete, the DVLA will send the registration documents, including the vehicle registration certificate, to the registered owner. The delivery time can vary depending on the delivery method chosen.

Appeals: In some cases, the DVLA may refuse to register a left-hand drive car in the UK. If this happens, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can take up to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.

Processing Time for V55/5 Form

Application processing time: The processing time for the V55/5 form can take up to 6 weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and the time of the year. It is advisable to submit the application as early as possible to avoid any delays.

Vehicle inspection: If your vehicle requires an inspection, this can add additional time to the registration process. The inspection can take up to 10 working days to schedule and complete, depending on the availability of the inspection centers.

Postal time: Once the application is approved, the registration certificate will be sent by post. This can take up to 5 working days, depending on the postal service.

Processing Time for Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) Test

Once the V55/5 form is processed, you may need to schedule an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test. This is a test to ensure your left-hand drive car meets UK safety and environmental standards.

The processing time for an IVA test can vary depending on the complexity of the vehicle, but it typically takes between 3-4 weeks to get an appointment. The actual test can take up to 4 hours to complete.

After the IVA test is completed, it can take up to 6 weeks to receive the test results and for your car to be registered in the UK. However, if your car requires modifications or repairs to meet UK standards, it can take longer to complete the registration process.

It’s important to note that the processing time for an IVA test can be longer during peak periods, such as the summer months. It’s recommended to schedule the test as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Additionally, if you choose to use a third-party service to handle the registration process, the processing time may be shorter as they have experience in navigating the requirements and can help expedite the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Registering A Left Hand Drive Car In UK

Can I register a left-hand drive car in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to register a left-hand drive car in the UK, provided you meet certain requirements and follow the proper registration process.

Do I need to pay VAT when registering a left-hand drive car in the UK?

If you are importing a new car from within the EU, you will need to pay VAT. However, if you are importing a used car or a new car from outside the EU, you will not need to pay VAT, but you may need to pay other taxes and fees.

How long does it take to register a left-hand drive car in the UK?

The time it takes to register a left-hand drive car in the UK varies depending on factors such as whether you need to take an IVA test and how quickly you can gather the necessary documentation. On average, the process can take several weeks.

Can I drive my left-hand drive car in the UK while waiting for registration?

You can drive your left-hand drive car in the UK while waiting for registration, as long as it meets certain requirements such as having valid insurance and road tax. However, you should check with the authorities to make sure you are complying with all necessary regulations.

What documents do I need to register a left-hand drive car in the UK?

The documents you need to register a left-hand drive car in the UK include the V55/5 form, proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and proof of identity. You may also need additional documents such as a certificate of conformity or an IVA certificate, depending on the specific circumstances.

Can I Drive A Left Hand Drive Car In UK?

Yes, you can drive a left-hand drive car in the UK as long as it meets the legal requirements for registration and insurance. You should make sure that you are comfortable driving a left-hand drive car before you take it on the road.

It is worth noting that driving a left-hand drive car in the UK can be a challenge, especially if you are used to driving on the right-hand side of the road. You will need to adjust to driving on the left-hand side of the road, as well as dealing with roundabouts and other road features that may be unfamiliar to you.

Additionally, if you are driving a left-hand drive car in the UK for a short period of time, such as during a visit or holiday, you may be able to use your foreign driver’s license. However, if you are living in the UK, you will need to obtain a UK driver’s license.

It is also important to note that some left-hand drive cars may not be suitable for driving in the UK, such as those with wide bodies that may not fit within UK road lanes or those with headlights that are not designed for UK roads.

Frequently Asked Questions