Motorcycle and moped tests

Booking your tests

After you’ve passed your theory test you’ll also need to pass:

an off-road riding test (known as the ‘module 1 test’)

an on-road riding test (known as the ‘module 2 test’)

Normally, you can book the riding tests separately or at the same time, but you must pass the module 1 test before you take the module 2 test. There’s a different fee for each module.

Motorcycle and moped tests and coronavirus (COVID-19)

Wear a face covering at the start and end of the test (when you’ll be talking to the examiner). If you cannot wear a face covering, you must tell DVSA when booking your appointment.

You can cancel your test appointment and get a refund if you cannot or do not want to attend because of COVID-19. Your instructor will need to cancel your test for you if they booked it.

What you need to do to pass the tests

To pass the riding tests you must be able to:

ride safely in different road and traffic conditions

show that you know The Highway Code by the way you ride

The national standard for riding mopeds and motorcycles tells you everything that you must be able to do to pass the tests.

There’s no minimum number of lessons you must have done before you book and take your tests.

What to take to your tests

You must take:

your UK photocard driving licence

your theory test pass certificate

a moped or motorbike

your compulsory basic training (CBT) certificate - unless you’re taking the test to upgrade your full motorcycle licence

your module 1 test pass certificate - if you’re taking your module 2 test

a face covering, unless you have a good reason not to wear one

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

When you must not go to your test

You must not go to your test if:

you or someone you live with has coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

you’ve been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19

you’re self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Clothing

You must wear:

a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards (unless you’re Sikh and wearing a turban)

motorcycle boots or other sturdy footwear that supports and protects your ankles

textile or leather motorcycle trousers or heavy denim trousers

a textile or leather motorcycle jacket or a heavy denim jacket with several layers underneath

motorcycle gloves

Wearing a face covering

You must bring and wear a face covering at the start and end of the test when you’ll be talking to the examiner, unless you have a good reason not to. Good reasons are things like:

having a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

If you cannot wear a face covering at the start and end of the test, you or your instructor must tell DVSA when booking.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

You should rearrange your test if you do not get the new licence in enough time. You must do this at least 3 working days before your test date or you’ll have to pay again.

If you have a paper licence

You must bring a valid passport and your paper licence if you do not have a photocard driving licence.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

You must bring the photocard and paper counterpart if you have a licence from Northern Ireland.

If you’ve lost your theory test certificate

Contact DVSA with your:

name

address

date of birth

driving licence number

You’ll be sent a letter that you can take to your test instead of your pass certificate.

Motorcycles and mopeds you can use for the tests

The motorcycle or moped you use for your tests must:

be a solo machine - you can only use a sidecar if you have certain disabilities

have a speedometer measuring speed in miles per hour (mph)

display L plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear

be insured, taxed and roadworthy and have no engine warning lights showing

Read the list of A2 and A motorcycles that can be used for riding tests.

Subcategories of motorcycles and mopeds

There are 4 subcategories of mopeds and motorcycles.

In both modules of the test, you must use:

the same subcategory as the licence you’re applying for

a vehicle with the same type of transmission (manual, automatic or semi-automatic)

| Moped, tricycle or quad bike | Light motorcycle | Standard motorcycle | Unrestricted motorcycle

Licence category | AM | A1 | A2 | A

Minimum age of rider | 16 | 17 | 19 | 24 (direct access) or 21 (progressive access)

Engine capacity | Up to 50cc | 120 to 125cc | At least 395cc | At least 595cc

Maximum speed | Up to 28mph | 55mph or above | - | -

Engine power | Up to 4kW | Up to 11kW | 20 to 35kW | At least 50kW

Motorcycle weight (without rider) | - | - | - | At least 175kg

Power to weight ratio | - | Up to 0.1kW/kg | Up to 0.2 kW/kg | -

Automatic and semi-automatic motorcycles

If you pass your tests on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission, you’ll only get a licence for those types of motorcycle.

Engines with restricted power

You can restrict the engine power of a motorcycle so that it fits within subcategory A2 (20 to 35kW). You cannot restrict it below half its original power.

This means that if the unrestricted power of the motorcycle is 60kW, you cannot restrict it any lower than 30kW. A motorcycle’s unrestricted power must not be more than 70kW.

You must bring proof if you’ve restricted a motorcycle to subcategory A2 - if you do not your test will be cancelled.

The proof must:

be on headed paper

be from a main dealer, official importer or recognised specialist

show the motorcycle’s number plate (registration number)

You cannot use a dyno test certificate as proof of the restriction.

Motorcycles with variable power modes

If you use a switchable engine control unit (ECU) or variable power device, your motorcycle cannot have:

interchangeable carburettor heads

an exhaust manifold restrictor

a hidden ECU - it must be clear what power mode the motorcycle is in

Electric motorcycles

You can use an electric motorcycle or moped if it both:

has the same engine power as the petrol version

can keep that power for at least 30 minutes

This is known as the ‘continuous power rating’ - you can check this with the manufacturer.

If you have a disability

You can use a motorcycle with a sidecar for your tests if you have certain disabilities. You cannot have a passenger in the sidecar during the tests.

Your licence will only let you ride motorcycles with sidecars.

You might be able to use a different vehicle if you’re disabled - contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before you book your test.

Module 1 off-road test: what happens

You’ll take the module 1 test in an off-road motorcycle manoeuvring area.

The test normally takes about 20 minutes and includes:

wheeling the moped or motorcycle and using the stand

riding a slalom and figure of 8

a slow ride

a U-turn

cornering and a controlled stop

cornering and an emergency stop

cornering and hazard avoidance

For the hazard avoidance and emergency stop exercises you must ride at a minimum speed of:

19 mph on a moped

31 mph on a motorcycle

Your test result

You’ll be told if you’ve passed module 1 at the end of the test.

The examiner will make a note of:

dangerous faults - these involve actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property

serious faults - these are potentially dangerous

riding faults - these are not potentially dangerous, but could become serious if you keep making the same mistake

You’ll pass module 1 if you make:

no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called ‘majors’)

no more than 5 riding faults (sometimes called ‘minors’)

If you pass

The examiner will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a pass certificate - you need to take this to the module 2 test

If you’re upgrading your licence through ‘progressive access’, you must pass module 2 within 6 months. You have to pass module 1 again if you do not.

If you do not pass

You’ll have to book another module 1 test and pay again. You have to choose a date at least 3 working days away.

If you’ve already booked the module 2 test you might need to change the date, since you must pass module 1 before you can take module 2.

You’ll lose your fee if you do not give 3 full days’ notice to cancel your module 2 test. Sundays and public holidays do not count as working days.

Module 2 on-road test: what happens

You must pass module 1 before you can take the module 2 test.

You can book both modules at the same time, but if you do not pass module 1 you must wait 3 working days before you can retake it.

The module 2 test normally takes about 40 minutes and includes:

an eyesight check

‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions

road riding

independent riding

You must bring your module 1 pass certificate to the module 2 test, plus all the documents you had to bring to the module 1 test.

Eyesight check

You’ll have to read a number plate from a distance of:

20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate

20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate

New-style number plates start with 2 letters followed by 2 numbers, for example AB51 ABC.

You’ll fail your riding test if you fail the eyesight check.

‘Show me, tell me’ questions

You’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions. These test that you know how to carry out basic safety checks.

Road riding

You’ll drive in various road and traffic conditions, but not on motorways. You’ll be asked to carry out:

normal stops

an angle start (pulling out from behind a parked vehicle)

a hill start (where possible)

The examiner will give you directions using a radio. They’ll normally follow you on a motorcycle.

Driving test routes are not published, so you can not check them before your test.

Independent riding

You’ll have about 10 minutes of independent riding. This is designed to assess your ability to ride safely while making your own decisions.

You can ask the examiner to repeat the directions if you forget them - you will not fail the test if you go off the route. You can not use sat nav.

Your test result

You’ll be told if you’ve passed module 2 at the end of the test.

The examiner will make a note of:

serious faults - these are potentially dangerous

You’ll pass module 2 if you make:

no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called ‘majors’)

no more than 10 riding faults (sometimes called ‘minors’)

If you pass your test

The examiner will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a pass certificate

ask you if you want your full licence to be sent to you automatically - give the examiner your provisional licence if you want to do this

You can start riding without L plates straight away when you’ve passed your test. You do not need to wait for your full licence to arrive.

Contact DVLA if your full licence has not arrived 3 weeks after you applied for it.

If you do not pass

You have to book another module 2 test and pay again. You have to choose a date at least 10 working days away.

If your test is cancelled or there’s bad weather

Your riding test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your vehicle, or for other reasons.

Bad weather

Riding tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, for example when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is in your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your vehicle

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example if you feel unwell while taking your test

your vehicle, for example if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules

Your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example if the examiner is unwell.

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

If you have a disability, health condition or learning difficulty

When you book your tests you should say if you have a:

disability

learning difficulty

health condition

You’ll still have to ride to the same standard to pass, but the examiner can make adjustments for your situation.

If your health condition or disability means you cannot wear a face covering to your test, you or your instructor must tell DVSA when booking.

You’re deaf or have a hearing impairment

The examiner will use written notes at the start of the test to explain what will happen. If you lip read, they’ll also look at you so you can lip read what they’re saying.

The examiner will usually give directions to you as hand signals. These will be explained to you before your test starts.

Using a sign language interpreter

You can take a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter with you. They must be at least 16 years old.

Your motorcycle instructor can be your interpreter.

You need to arrange your own interpreter and pay any fees that they charge.

You have reading difficulties

You’ll do an eyesight check at the start of the module 2 test. The examiner will ask you to read the number plate on a parked vehicle.

You can write down what you see if you have reading difficulties.

You have learning difficulties

The examiner will make adjustments for the independent riding part of the module 2 test if you have learning difficulties.

They might ask if you’d prefer to follow traffic signs instead of verbal directions.

You might be able to choose to follow a set of directions using a diagram. You’ll normally be asked to follow up to 3 directions at a time, but the examiner can reduce this to 2 at a time.

You’re pregnant

You can take the tests at any stage of your pregnancy. However, you must be able and willing to:

do an emergency stop

manually handle and wheel the motorcycle

do the cornering and hazard avoidance exercise


Learning to drive a tractor or specialist vehicle

Driving licence requirements

If you pass a regular car driving test (category B) you’ll get entitlement to drive:

agricultural tractors (category F)

mowing machines or pedestrian-controlled vehicles (category K)

For all other categories you need the correct full licence to drive the tractor or special vehicle on the road.

To get this you first need to get the right provisional driving licence entitlement and then pass a tractor or specialist vehicle driving test.

Exemptions

You do not need a licence to drive or operate:

a tractor or specialist vehicle off the public road (there are age limits)

pedestrian-controlled mowing machines (you must be at least 16)

electric bikes

mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs

You do need a driving licence to drive quad bikes on the road.

Road rollers and tracked vehicles

You need a full category B car licence with provisional entitlement for categories G and H to drive:

road rollers (category G)

tracked vehicles (category H)

Find out how to add higher categories to your driving licence.

Age limits

| Category | Minimum age

Agricultural tractors | F | 16/17*

Road rollers | G | 21**

Tracked vehicles | H | 17/21***

Mowing machine or pedestrian-controlled vehicle | K | 16

*If you’re 16 you can only drive tractors less than 2.45 metres wide and tow trailers less than 2.45 metres wide with 2 wheels, or 4 wheels close-coupled (close together).

**If you’re between 17 and 20 these must be small road road-rollers with metal or hard rollers. They cannot be steam powered, weigh more than 11,960kg or be made for carrying loads.

***If you’re between 17 and 20 the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of the vehicle cannot be more than 3,500kg. (Maximum Authorised Mass is the maximum weight of a vehicle including the maximum load that can be carried safely while used on the road.)

Practising driving a tractor or specialist vehicle

You can get a provisional licence for a tractor or specialist vehicle at 16, but you cannot practise driving them on the road until you’re 17.

The only exception is when you’re driving to or from your practical driving test.

You must be accompanied by a qualified driver if the vehicle was made with a passenger seat. Removing a seat is not allowed.

Other rules for practising

You need to display L plates (L or D plates in Wales) when you’re practising driving a tractor or specialist vehicle on public roads.

Your vehicle must also be properly insured and roadworthy.

Finding an instructor

You might be able to use an approved driving instructor (ADI) if you’re learning to drive a vehicle with controls similar to a car and with 2 front seats.

Your instructor may have to walk alongside you calling out advice if your vehicle does not have space for 2 people on board.

Driving tests for tractors and specialist vehicles

The type of driving test you have to do depends on the type of vehicle.

Category F, G, H or K vehicles

The examiner will give you instructions at the side of the road and watch how you:

drive as you go around left and right circuits

turn round using forward and reverse gears

For very slow vehicles, like pedestrian-controlled vehicles, your examiner may walk near you where they can watch your driving.

You’ll also have an eyesight test and at the end of the category F, G, H or K test, you’ll be asked 5 questions on the Highway Code and other motoring matters. You’ll then be asked to identify 6 different traffic signs.

Category H tests

In category H driving tests you need to drive the vehicle backwards and turn it around, using its tracks, so it’s facing the opposite direction.

Your examiner will tell you how you should make this manoeuvre.

Documents you need to bring to your test

You must bring either:

a valid, signed photocard driving licence from the UK or an EU country

an old-style valid, signed UK paper driving licence along with a valid passport

Cancelled tests

You might be able to apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) cancels your test at short notice.

Rules for test vehicles

All test vehicles have to meet certain rules, depending on their category.

Category B1 - quadricycles and light 4-wheeled vehicles

You can only take a test on a category B1 vehicle if you’re registered as disabled.

The vehicle must:

weigh no more than 550kg unladen

be able to drive at 37mph

Category F - tractors

Category F includes tractors with 2 or more axles, built for off-road agriculture or forestry work.

Category G - road rollers

If you’re between 17 and 20, these must be small road rollers with metal or hard rollers. They cannot:

be steam powered

weigh more than 11,690kg

be made for carrying loads

Category H - tracked vehicles

Category H vehicles must have adequate all-round visibility to let the driver carry out manoeuvres and deal with junctions safely.

Any vehicle needing a second person to help with observation, such as a military vehicle, cannot be used for a category H test.

Category K - mowing machines or pedestrian-controlled vehicles

A mowing machine is a specialist ride-on grass-cutting vehicle with permanent cutting equipment. You must be 16 to use this type of vehicle.

A pedestrian-controlled vehicle is where the operator walks with but doesn’t ride on the vehicle. You do not need a licence to operate one.


Change vehicle details on a V5C registration certificate (log book)

When you need to update your V5C

You must update the details on your registration certificate (V5C) to tell DVLA about:

mistakes on your V5C

most changes you make to your vehicle

You cannot change tax class by updating your V5C. You do this by changing your vehicle tax - even if you’re changing to a tax class that’s exempt from vehicle tax, for example ‘disabled’.

Changes you need to update

You must update your V5C if you change any of the following:

colour

engine

cylinder capacity (cc)

fuel type

chassis or bodyshell (replaced or modified)

seating capacity

weight of a large vehicle, for example goods vehicle or campervan

Changes that may need inspection

You must also update your V5C if you change any of the following:

wheel plan

body type, for example you convert a van to a campervan or ’motor caravan’ (DVLA gives a body type description based on the vehicle’s external appearance)

vehicle identification number (VIN)

chassis number

frame number for motorbikes

DVLA will tell you if they need to inspect the change.

What evidence to give

You must give DVLA evidence or written confirmation if you make any of the following changes to your vehicle. Your V5C update will be rejected if you do not.

Change of engine number or cylinder capacity (cc)

You need to provide either:

a receipt for the replacement engine

written evidence from the manufacturer

an inspection report provided for insurance purposes

written confirmation on headed paper from a garage (if the change took place before you bought the vehicle)

Change of fuel type

You need to provide evidence if:

your existing engine is converted – the confirmation must be on headed paper from the garage that did the work

a new engine is fitted – provide the receipt as confirmation

Change of weight of a larger vehicle

If you change the weight of a large vehicle (for example, a campervan or goods vehicle), you’ll need to provide either:

a plating certificate

a design weight certificate

Change of body type to motor caravan

Check what evidence you need when you convert a van to a campervan or motor caravan.

How to update your V5C

Fill in section 1 if you have a new style log book with multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front cover. Fill in section 7 if you have the older style log book.

Send it to DVLA with any necessary evidence.

If the change is not listed in section 1 or 7, add notes to the ‘vehicle details’ section instead. Send it to DVLA with evidence and a letter explaining the change.

Where to send your V5C

Send your V5C to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DZ if you changed any of the following:

engine size (cc)

fuel type

weight of a goods vehicle

number of seats on a bus

For all other changes, send your V5C to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.

What happens next

DVLA will contact you to:

confirm the change or tell you if it needs an inspection

tell you if the change means you have to pay more vehicle tax

It may take longer than usual to get your replacement V5C because of coronavirus (COVID-19).


Displaying number plates

Overview

Number plates (also known as licence plates) must show your registration number correctly. You cannot rearrange letters or numbers, or alter them so that they’re hard to read.

You could be fined up to £1,000 and your vehicle will fail its MOT test if you drive with incorrectly displayed number plates.

The current vehicle registration number format was introduced in 2001. It consists of:

2 letters (these refer to the region in the country where your vehicle was first registered)

2 numbers (these tell you when it was issued)

3 letters chosen at random

You can get theft-resistant number plates - these make it harder for someone to remove them from your vehicle quickly and reuse them. Ask your local car dealer or registered number plate supplier for more information.

You can also get personalised number plates.

Rules for number plates

The number plates on your vehicle must:

be made from a reflective material

display black characters on a white background (front plate)

display black characters on a yellow background (rear plate)

not have a background pattern

Characters on a number plate can be 3D.

Motorcycles and motor tricycles registered on or after 1 September 2001 must only display a number plate at the rear of the vehicle.

If you ride a motorbike or motor tricycle registered before 1 September 2001 you can also display a number plate at the front, but you do not have to.

Motorcycle and motor tricycle number plate numbers should be on 2 lines.

Towing a trailer

Your trailer must display the same number plate as the vehicle you’re towing it with. If you’re towing more than one trailer, the number plate must be fixed to the trailer at the back.

Taking commercial or heavy trailers abroad

If your trailer needs to be registered to go abroad, you need to fix the trailer registration plate to the back, as well as the towing vehicle’s number plate.

Fix the trailer registration plate as far away as possible from the towing vehicle’s number plate.

If you cannot fix the trailer registration plate on the back of your trailer, fix it to both sides instead. Make sure they’re clearly visible.

Letter spacing, size and style

The characters on a number plate need to be a certain height and size.

Read leaflet INF104: vehicle registration numbers and number plates - height and size measurement, for more information.

If you have a trailer, read leaflet INF291: trailer registration numbers and number plates.

Getting number plates made up

You can only get a number plate made up from a registered number plate supplier.

The supplier will need to see original documents that:

prove your name and address

show you’re allowed to use the registration number

Identity documents

You can use the following to confirm your name and address:

driving licence

utility, Council Tax or rates bill from the last 6 months

bank or building society statement from the last 6 months

national identity card

The following will confirm your name only:

passport - does not have to be issued in the UK

bank or building society debit or credit card

police warrant card

armed forces identity card

Proving you can use the registration number

You must bring one of the following to show you’re allowed to display the registration number:

vehicle registration certificate (V5C or V5CNI)

green ‘new keeper’ slip from the V5C or V5CNI

certificate of entitlement (V750 or V750NI) to the number

retention document (V778)

a renewal reminder for vehicle tax or SORN (V11 or V11NI)

temporary registration certificate (V379 or V379NI)

a number plate authorisation certificate (V948) with an official stamp from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)

an electronic number plate authorisation certificate (eV948 or eV948/2)

a letter of authorisation from a fleet operator (including lease or hire company) quoting the document reference number from the registration certificate

if your fleet is in the new V5C on demand scheme (also called ‘V5C suppression’), a PDF of the vehicle’s details from the view vehicle record service

UK trailer registration certificate (VTRC)

Flags, symbols and identifiers

You can display one of the following flags with identifying letters on the left-hand side of the number plate:

Cross of St George

Cross of St Andrew - also known as the Saltire

Red Dragon of Wales

The letters, or national identifiers, you can have are:

GREAT BRITAIN, Great Britain or GB

UNITED KINGDOM, United Kingdom or UK

CYMRU, Cymru, CYM or Cym

ENGLAND, England, ENG, Eng

SCOTLAND, Scotland, SCO or Sco

WALES or Wales

The flag must be above the identifier. You cannot have the flag or letters on the number plate margin, and neither can be more than 50 millimetres wide.

Travelling in Europe

If your number plate includes the GB identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a GB sticker. But you will need to display a GB sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle if your number plate has any of the following:

a Euro symbol

a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales

numbers and letters only - no flag or identifier

If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a GB sticker no matter what is on your number plate.


Private (personalised) number plates

Overview

You can buy a private (personalised) registration for your vehicle’s number plates from DVLA or from a private dealer.

If you have the right to a private number that is not currently being used, you can apply to assign it (put it on) to a vehicle.

Take a private number off (‘retention’)

If you do not want to use your private number anymore you can apply to take it off your vehicle. You can keep the number (put it ‘on retention’) to use later.

You’ll get a V778 retention document proving you still have the right to use the number.

Selling a private number

You can also sell your private number if you do not want to use it anymore.

If you’re selling your private number online, do not share a scan or photograph of the V750 or V778 document. Someone other than the buyer might use it to put the private number on another vehicle.

Transfer a private number

To transfer a private number from one vehicle to another, you need to:

Take it off the vehicle you’re transferring it from.

Assign it to the vehicle you’re transferring it to.

You can also do this by post using form V317.

Buy a private number

Buy from DVLA

You can buy new numbers from DVLA Personalised Registrations.

Buying at DVLA auctions

There are auctions across the country about 5 times a year. You can see a list of the numbers coming up for auction.

You can bid in person, by phone, in writing or online.

You’ll get a V750 certificate of entitlement once you’ve paid for the private (personalised) number. This is to prove that you have the right to put the number on a vehicle (‘assign’ it).

Buying from a private dealer or person

You can buy a private number from a dealer or from another person.

Most dealers will transfer the number to your vehicle for you. If you want to keep or assign the number yourself, ask the dealer if you can have the V750 or V778.

Assign a private number to a vehicle

To assign a private (personalised) number to a vehicle, you need one of the following:

a V778 retention document

a V750 certificate of entitlement

an online reference number

You get one of these when you either buy a number or take a number from another vehicle you own.

Eligibility

You cannot:

assign a number starting with ‘Q’ or ‘NIQ’

put a private number on a ‘Q’ registered vehicle

use a private number that makes a vehicle look newer than it is - for example, an ‘07’ registration number on a 2003 registered vehicle

The vehicle must:

be registered with DVLA in the UK

be able to move under its own power

be of a type that needs an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate

have been taxed or had a SORN in place continuously for the past 5 years

be taxed currently (or have a SORN in place - if it’s had a SORN for more than 5 years, it must be taxed)

be available for inspection

DVLA will check your application and contact you if your vehicle needs an inspection.

Apply to assign a number

If the vehicle is:

registered to you - apply online or by post

a used vehicle you just bought - wait for DVLA to send you a new V5C in your name before you apply online or by post

brand new - give the dealer your V750 or V778 document and ask them to apply

registered to someone else and you want the private number to be transferred to them - apply online or by post

It’s free to apply online or by post. You need the vehicle’s log book (V5C).

If you already have a private number on your vehicle, apply to take it off first. You could lose the right to use the number if you do not.

Apply online

The number will be assigned immediately if your vehicle does not need an inspection. Be ready to put new number plates on the vehicle as soon as you’ve applied.

Assign a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

Apply by post

It is taking longer than usual to process paper applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Send all of the following documents to DVLA:

the completed V750 or V778 - the address is on the form

the vehicle’s log book (V5C) or green ‘new keeper’ slip with a completed V62 ‘application for a vehicle registration certificate V5C’

If you’re assigning the number to someone else’s vehicle, add them as a ‘nominee’ - complete section 2 of the V750 or V778.

To tax your vehicle at the same time, include all of the following:

a V10 ‘application for vehicle tax’ form

the right amount of vehicle tax

an MOT certificate

After you assign a private number

You’ll be sent:

a new log book (V5C) - it can take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive

your original MOT back (if you sent it to tax the vehicle)

You must put new number plates on the vehicle before you drive it.

You can keep the original registration number and plates - they’ll be reassigned to the vehicle when you take off the private number.

You must not sell or get rid of a vehicle until you get the new log book (V5C).

Who to tell about your new registration number

You must tell your insurance company.

Update your registration number for any automatic payment accounts you have, for example to pay:

the Congestion Charge

the Low Emission Zone Charge

the Ultra Low Emission Zone Charge

the Dart Charge

charges for driving in Clean Air Zones

You may get a penalty charge if you do not update your registration details and enter one of these zones.

If your vehicle has Clean Vehicle Retrofit Accreditation scheme certification, you also need to tell them your new registration number.

Take a private number off a vehicle

You can apply to take a private (personalised) number off a vehicle if you want to either:

keep the number to use later

assign it to another vehicle

You cannot keep a number starting with ‘Q’ or ‘NIQ’.

The vehicle’s original registration number is usually reassigned to it automatically when you take off a private number.

If your application is successful you’ll be sent a V778 retention document and a new log book (V5C).

You must have your V778 and new log book before you scrap or sell your vehicle - otherwise you’ll lose the right to use the private number.

Eligibility

The vehicle must:

be registered with DVLA in the UK

be able to move under its own power

be of a type that needs an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate

have been taxed or had a SORN in place continuously for the past 5 years

be available for inspection

DVLA will check your application and contact you if your vehicle needs an inspection.

Apply to take off a number

You can apply online or by post. It costs £80. You must have the vehicle’s log book (V5C).

If the vehicle’s not in your name, you have to apply by post.

Apply online

The number will be removed immediately if your vehicle does not need an inspection.

You can assign the number to another vehicle as soon as you’ve applied to take it off - use the reference number you get after you apply.

Take off a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

Apply by post

It is taking longer than usual to process paper applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Send all of the following to DVLA:

a V317 ‘transfer or retain a vehicle registration number’ form - the address is on the form

the £80 transfer fee

To tax your vehicle at the same time, send all of the following:

a V10 ‘application for vehicle tax’ form

the right amount of vehicle tax

an MOT certificate

After you apply

Your original number plate will usually be reassigned to your vehicle automatically, if your application is successful. This will happen straight away.

You’ll be sent:

a new log book (V5C) showing the vehicle’s replacement registration number - it can take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive

your original MOT back (if you sent it to tax the vehicle)

a V778 retention document if the private number is in your name

If the private number is in someone else’s name, the V778 document will be sent to them.

Before you can drive your vehicle, you must:

put the original or new number plates on the vehicle before you drive it

tell your insurance company your new registration number

Who to tell about your new registration number

You must tell your insurance company.

Update your registration number for any automatic payment accounts you have, for example to pay:

the Congestion Charge

the Low Emission Zone Charge

the Ultra Low Emission Zone Charge

the Dart Charge

charges for driving in Clean Air Zones

What happens to the private number

Your V778 retention document proves that you still have the right to assign the private number for the next 10 years.

You must renew your right to use a private number before the V778 expires.

You can give up your right to use the private number if you decide not to assign it.

Renew or replace your private number

You must renew your right to use your private (personalised) number every 10 years if it’s not being used on a vehicle. If you got your private number before 2015, you must renew it more often - check your V750 or V778 document.

You’ll permanently lose the right to use the number if you do not renew it before the expiry date. DVLA will not accept applications made after that date.

Renew your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document

You can apply to renew your V750 or V778 up to 28 days before it expires. Do not apply earlier than this or your application may be refused.

You’ll get a reminder letter or email if you’re not using a private number and your right to use it is about to run out.

You can renew it for up to 10 years, and it does not cost anything to do.

Renew your V750 online

You can renew your V750 by creating a DVLA personalised registration account or by using your existing account.

Renew by post

Fill in the form on the V750 or V778.

Send the V750 or V778 to the address on the form.

Replace a lost or stolen V750 or V778

You can send a letter to DVLA Personalised Registrations to ask for a replacement V750 or V778 if:

it has not expired

you’re the person with the right to use the number (your name will have been on the V778 or V750 as the ‘grantee’)

It’ll take around 3 to 4 weeks for the new V750 or V778 to arrive.

If your address or name has changed

You’ll need to include an extra document with your letter.

If your address has changed, include proof of your identity. This can be a copy of:

a household bill sent to you in the last 3 months

your Council Tax bill for this year

a bank or building society statement sent to you in the last 3 months

a medical card

your current British driving licence

your passport

your birth certificate

If your name has changed, include proof of your name change. This can be a copy of:

your marriage certificate

the decree nisi or decree absolute from your divorce

a deed poll to show you’ve changed your name legally

Sell or give a private number to someone else

You can sell or give a private (personalised) number to someone. The number must be assigned to their vehicle before they can use it.

If you’re giving a number to someone, follow the steps for assigning your private number to someone else.

Selling your private number

You can use a private number dealer or sell your number yourself.

Do not share a photograph or scan of the V750 or V778 document. Someone other than the buyer might use it to put the private number on another vehicle.

Use a private number dealer

Most dealers will find a buyer, arrange the payment and transfer the number to the buyer’s vehicle for you.

Sell your private number yourself

After you find a buyer, you’ll need to assign your number to their vehicle. Follow the steps for assigning your private number to someone else.

Assign your private number to someone else

You can put your private number on someone else’s vehicle online or by post.

After that, DVLA will send a replacement log book for the vehicle but with the new private number assigned to it.

Online

You’ll need details from:

the log book (V5C) of the vehicle you’re assigning the number to

your V778 or V750

The number will usually be assigned immediately.

Assign a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

By post

Send DVLA:

your V778 or V750 form - fill in sections 1 and 2 and sign it first

the log book (V5C) for the vehicle you want to put the private number on

The address is on the form.

If the nominee dies

The person who has the right to use the private number can change the ‘nominee’ (the person you’re giving the number to). Fill in section 2 of the V750 or V778 with the new nominee’s details, sign the form and send it to:

Change your name or address

You can change your address or name on your V750 or V778 certificate.

Change your address online - V750 only

Use your DVLA personalised registration account.

Change your address by post - V750 or V778

Fill in the ‘change of address’ section on your V750 or V778. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations.

If you do not have your V750 or V778

Write a letter saying what your new address is. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your identity. This can be a copy of:

a household bill sent to you in the last 3 months

your Council Tax bill for this year

a bank or building society statement sent to you in the last 3 months

a medical card

your current British driving licence

your passport

your birth certificate

Change your name - V750 or V778

You can only change your name by post. You’ll need proof of your name change - this can be a copy of:

your marriage certificate

the decree nisi or decree absolute from your divorce

a deed poll to show you’ve changed your name legally

Fill in the ‘nominee details’ section on your V750 or V778. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your name change.

If you do not have your V750 or V778

Write a letter saying what your new name is. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your name change.

Fix mistakes

Write a letter saying what the mistakes are. Send it with the V750 or V778 to DVLA Personalised Registrations.

Give up your right to use a private number

You might get a refund of £80 if you have the right to use a private number but you decide not to assign it to a vehicle.

This refunds the £80 fee you paid when you either:

bought the number (the fee was included in the cost)

took the number off a vehicle

You can apply for a refund if:

the number was not assigned to any vehicle after you paid the fee

you have the latest V778 or V750 document - if you’ve lost it and it’s still valid you can get a replacement from DVLA

If the document was issued before 9 March 2015, you can only get a refund once it expires. You cannot get a replacement document if it’s expired.

Tick the ‘Give up the right to this registered number (surrender)’ section of the V778 or V750 document, sign it and send it to:

You cannot use the private number after you give up your right to it.

There’s a different process if the person with the right to use the private number has died.

If the person with the right to use the private number dies

If someone has died and left you a personalised number in their will, or you’re in charge of the will (an ‘executor’), you can:

keep the private number

transfer it to another vehicle

put it in someone else’s name

give up the right to use the number (you can apply for a refund)

To do this, you’ll need to send a form to DVLA, along with documents that prove you have the right to use the number.

Prove you’ve got the right to use the number

You must send DVLA the death certificate when you send in your form. The death certificate can be an original or a certified copy.

You must also send at least one of the following:

a certified copy of probate

a copy of the will

a letter from the solicitor confirming who the executors are or next of kin is

Keep or transfer the number, or give it to someone else

Which form you send depends on whether the number is already on (‘assigned to’) a vehicle.

If the number is already assigned to a vehicle

Fill in:

the V317 form (if you have an old blue form, fill in section 2)

section 2 if you have a new style log book (with multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front cover) or section 6 if you have the older style log book

Make sure you include the details of the person you want to transfer the number to, for example an executor or next of kin.

It costs £80.

If the number has not been assigned to a vehicle

Send the documents that prove you’ve got the right to use the number and either the:

V778 retention document

V750 certificate of entitlement form

The executors must sign the V778 or V750 before you send it.

You must also send a covering letter from the executors saying if you want to:

keep the number

give the number to someone else

If you do not have the V778 or V750

Send DVLA:

the documents that prove you have the right to use the number

a covering letter signed by all the executors confirming that you do not have the forms, and explaining what you want to do with the number

Give up your right to use the private number

You might be able to get a refund of the £80 assignment fee if:

a private number was not assigned to a vehicle after the fee was paid

Check the V778 or V750 document to find out if a fee was paid.

Send DVLA:

the V778 or V750 document - tick the ‘Refund of the assignment fee’ section and get all the executors to sign it

If you do not have the V778 or V750

Send DVLA:

a covering letter signed by the all the executors confirming that you do not have the forms, and explaining what you want to do with the number


Vehicle registration schemes for the motor trade

Overview

There are 3 vehicle registration schemes for the motor trade. They are:

the non-secure registration scheme

the secure registration scheme

the Register a Vehicle (RaV) service

You can use these schemes if you’re a:

vehicle manufacturer

sole or multiple import concessionaire

VAT-registered motor vehicle trader

Using the schemes

When you first start registering vehicles, you have to use the non-secure scheme. The other 2 schemes are designed to speed up the vehicle registration process.

You can apply to the secure scheme when you’ve been using the non-secure scheme without irregularities or issues for 6 months.

You need to have used the secure scheme for 3 months if you want to use the RaV service.

The Vehicle Register

This is maintained by DVLA. It’s based on the information provided on the V55 registration form or by the RaV service.

Non-secure registration scheme

You need to complete form V55/4 and send it to DVLA Swansea, SA99 1BE with one of the following documents:

a valid ‘CoC’ (certificate of conformity)

the correct vehicle type approval certificate

a Vehicle Certification Agency certificate of British National Type Approval (goods vehicles and mutual recognition)

Send the documents along with:

the registration fee

the licence fee

the appropriate customs form for an imported vehicle

a certificate of newness (if applicable)

approved identity documents confirming your name and address

a foreign registration document (for used, imported vehicles)

You can only apply to use the secure registration scheme after you’ve been using the non-secure scheme without irregularities or issues for 6 months.

Secure registration scheme

When your company has been approved to use this scheme, some of the documentation needed for the non-secure scheme is no longer required.

Instead, you complete the registration process by transferring the data from one of the following onto the V55/1 or V55/2 form:

European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval Certificate

National Small Series Type Approval Certificate

Goods Vehicle National Type Approval Certificate

You register vehicles by sending the following to DVLA Swansea, SA99 1BE:

a completed V55/1 or V55/2 form

the registration fee and the fee to tax a vehicle

There’s no need to provide evidence of newness with your V55/1 or V55/2 form.

Contact one of the following trade associations to get a V55/1 or V55/2 form:

Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders

Motor Cycle Industry Association

Agricultural Engineers Association

Or write to:

You can also order the forms by faxing 01792 783525 or emailing stores.order.forms@dvla.gov.uk.

Modified vehicles

Vehicles modified before registration - for example with different wheels, tyres or a silencer - may need a:

Single Vehicle Approval inspection

Individual Vehicle Approval inspection

Motorcycle Vehicle Approval inspection

further type approval work

These vehicles then need to be registered using the non-secure system with one of the above certificates.

Vehicles modified through the multi-stage build process and then type approved, or those using the enhancement scheme, can be registered using the secure registration scheme.

How to apply

Email secureformsscheme@dvla.gov.uk to apply.

They will send you an application pack and guidance notes.

When you’ve used the secure registration scheme for 3 months, you can apply to use the Register a Vehicle (RaV) service.

Register a Vehicle service

The Register a Vehicle (RaV) service is a web-based version of the secure registration scheme and it can save you time if you decide to join it.

Before applying for the RaV service you must:

be approved to register vehicles using the secure registration scheme

have used the secure scheme for at least 3 months

DVLA staff will provide initial training in the system and there’s also a helpdesk that operates from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) control check arrangements

You still need to maintain the same paper records for the RaV service, as you did for the secure registration scheme.

These could include:

V55 document security (when used as back up for printer or computer failure or other registration purposes)

derogation forms from potential new vehicle suppliers

spot check records

The DVLA or VCA may visit you to make sure control checks and security systems are being maintained.

How to apply

Email rav@dvla.gov.uk if you register your vehicles on forms V55/1 or V55/2.

Email secureformsscheme@dvla.gov.uk if:

you register your vehicles on form V55/4

you want to register for the secure registration scheme before joining the RaV service

If your application is successful, you’ll be told how to sign in to the RaV service.


Seat belts: the law

Overview

You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted in the seat you’re using - there are only a few exceptions.

You’re also only allowed 1 person in each seat fitted with a seat belt.

You can be fined up to £500 if you don’t wear a seat belt when you’re supposed to.

Children

You must make sure that any children in the vehicle you’re driving are:

in the correct car seat for their height or weight until they reach 135 centimetres tall or their 12th birthday, whichever is first

wearing a seat belt if they’re 12 or 13 years old, or younger and over 135cm tall

You can be fined up to £500 if a child under 14 isn’t in the correct car seat or wearing a seat belt while you’re driving.

When you don't need to wear a seat belt

You don’t need to wear a seat belt if you’re:

a driver who is reversing, or supervising a learner driver who is reversing

in a vehicle being used for police, fire and rescue services

a passenger in a trade vehicle and you’re investigating a fault

driving a goods vehicle on deliveries that is travelling no more than 50 metres between stops

a licensed taxi driver who is ‘plying for hire’ or carrying passengers

Medical exemptions

Your doctor may say you don’t have to wear a seat belt for a medical reason. They’ll give you a ‘Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing’. You must:

keep this in your vehicle

show it to the police if you’re stopped

You’ll also need to tell your car insurer.

Talk to your doctor for more information and read ‘medical exemptions from compulsory seat belt wearing’.

Wearing a seat belt while pregnant

You must wear a seat belt if you’re pregnant, unless your doctor says you don’t have to for medical reasons.

Wearing a seat belt if you’re disabled

You must wear a seat belt if you’re a disabled driver or passenger, unless you don’t have to for medical reasons. You may need to adapt your vehicle.

If your vehicle doesn’t have seat belts

If your vehicle doesn’t have seat belts, for example it’s a classic car, you aren’t allowed to carry any children under 3 years old in it.

Children over 3 are only allowed to sit in the back seats.

These rules only apply if your vehicle was originally made without seat belts.


Vehicle recalls and faults

Overview

You need to get your vehicle, vehicle parts and accessories fixed or replaced by the manufacturer if they find a serious problem with them.

This includes:

cars

motorcycles, quadricycles and tricycles

caravans and horse boxes

child car seats

seat belts and harnesses

tyres

components and parts

agricultural equipment

lorries, buses, coaches and minibuses

You can report a serious safety defects with your vehicle or accessory if it could cause injury.

Recalled vehicles, parts and accessories

If your vehicle is recalled for a safety reason, you’ll usually be sent a letter by the manufacturer telling you:

why it’s being recalled

what you need to do next

who you should contact

You will not usually have to pay for any repairs or parts under a safety recall.

Other ways of finding out about recalls

You will not get a letter if the manufacturer does not have your contact details, for example for car child seats.

You can check if a vehicle model, part or accessory has been recalled for a safety reason.

What you need to do

You’re legally responsible for making sure that your vehicle is:

kept in a safe condition

safe to drive whenever you drive it

If you do not get your vehicle inspected and fixed, you could:

affect any insurance claim you make

put yourself and others at serious risk

You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition.

Report a serious safety defect

If you find a serious defect that affects the safety of your vehicle, one of its parts, or an accessory, report it to the manufacturer immediately.

Tell the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you’re not happy with how the manufacturer is dealing with your report.

DVSA will:

investigate the issue with the manufacturer

tell you what action is being taken

The vehicle, part or accessory can be recalled if it’s found to be a serious safety issue.

How to report a serious safety defect

To report the defect you’ll need to give details of what happened and:

the vehicle registration (number plate)

the make and model of the vehicle

the year the vehicle was made

the current mileage

the engine type (for example, petrol)

the gearbox type (manual or automatic)

any photos showing the defect (if you have them)

If you do not have all of the vehicle details, you can get some vehicle information from DVLA.

Report a defect

What counts as a serious safety defect

A serious safety defect is something:

about the way the vehicle is designed or made that’s likely to cause injury or death

that happens suddenly and without warning

What does not count as a serious safety defect

Things are not classed as a serious safety defect if:

they can be found during routine maintenance and servicing

you’re warned about them by warning lights, noticeable changes in handling and unusual noises

they’re caused by you misusing the vehicle, for example overloading your vehicle causing a tyre failure

Faults with vehicles, parts and accessories

Faults in the way vehicles, vehicle parts and accessories are designed or made have to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if they:

mean it could become unsafe in the future if it’s not fixed

could mean that the vehicle, part or accessory no longer meets the legal standard

Other types of general faults are not registered with DVSA.

How you’ll be told about faults

If you own something affected, you might be sent a letter by the manufacturer telling you:

what the fault is

what you need to do next

who you should contact

You usually do not have to pay to get the fault fixed.

Other ways of finding out about faults

You can contact the manufacturer or dealer of your vehicle, part or accessory to check for any registered faults.

What you need to do

You do not have to do anything about the fault if you do not want to. However, not getting it fixed could mean that:

it becomes unsafe in the future

your vehicle fails its next MOT


Boatmasters' licence

Check if you need a licence

You must have a boatmasters’ licence if you’re the master of certain vessels on:

inland waters in categories A to D, such as canals, rivers, lakes and some estuaries

‘limited’ coastal area operations - no more than 5 miles from the land and 15 miles from where your vessel sets off or arrives

You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters’ licence.

Find out what types and class of vessels can operate on UK inland waters.

When you do not need a licence

You do not need a boatmasters’ licence if you’re in charge of:

a pleasure vessel, including hire boats used as pleasure vessels

fishing vessels

Using alternative certificates

Some certificates can be used instead of a boatmasters’ licence, including STCW certificates of competency and certificates awarded by the Royal Yachting Association.

If you have an alternative certificate, you must:

check if you need a paper endorsement or a boat handling test - read sections 3 and 4 of the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

download and fill in the application form and send it to your nearest marine office

pay the right fees

Before you apply

Read the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice to find out:

which vessels you need a boatmasters’ licence for

what kinds of boatmasters’ licence you can apply for

what you need to apply for a boatmasters’ licence

what you need to revalidate a boatmasters’ licence

alternative qualifications you can have instead of a boatmasters’ licence

information on local knowledge requirements

You should also:

keep records of relevant work and training for your licence application

check for local regulations, such as byelaws that you may need to know

check that you have safety training from an approved training provider

How to apply

You’ll need to:

read the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

download the application form for a boatmasters’ licence

pay the right fees

Replacing your licence

Download the application form for a replacement boatmasters’ licence.

Replacing your licence costs £23.

Renewing your licence

Your boatmasters’ licence usually lasts 5 years.

Renewing your licence costs £31.

Download the boatmasters’ licence renewal application form. Send it to the address on the form.

Upgrading your licence

Download the form to upgrade your licence, or add another area to your licence.

The fee for upgrading your licence can vary.

Exemptions under the 2006 Boatmasters' Regulations

You need to apply for a ‘Tier 2 Level 2’ licence before your exemption expires if you want to keep working. This will cover all the areas described on your exemption certificate.

You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters’ licence when your exemption expires.

How to apply

If you have an exemption certificate and want to continue working, you must:

check if you can apply for a Tier 2 boatmasters’ licence by reading section 22 of the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

pay the right fees


Appeal against a penalty charge notice

Appealing to an independent tribunal

You may be able to appeal to an independent tribunal against a penalty charge notice (PCN) if you think it’s wrong.

You can only do this if you’ve already tried making making a formal challenge (‘representation’).

This includes any PCN issued in England or Wales for:

parking

breaking traffic rules, for example going against a ‘no right turn’ sign or driving in a bus lane when you shouldn’t

not paying the Dartford Crossing, London congestion or low emissions zone charge on time

There are different ways to appeal in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

When to appeal

You then have 28 days to appeal after you get a ‘notice of rejection’ to say your formal challenge has failed.

How to appeal

Find out how to appeal to:

London Tribunals if your PCN was issued in London

the Traffic Penalty Tribunal if your PCN was issued outside London, in England or Wales - this includes PCNs from Dart Charge

If your appeal is successful the PCN will be cancelled and you won’t have to pay anything.

If your appeal fails

You’ll have 28 days to pay the penalty charge notice (PCN) if your appeal is refused.

If you don’t pay within 28 days

You’ll get a ‘charge certificate’ and you’ll have to pay 50% more within 14 days.

You’ll get a court order demanding payment if you don’t pay a charge certificate within 14 days.

If you get a court order

You’ll have 21 days to pay the penalty charge notice (PCN) or challenge a court order demanding payment (known as an ‘order of recovery’).

Bailiffs (‘enforcement agents’) will be told to visit your home to collect what you owe if you don’t pay or challenge within 21 days.

When you can challenge

You can challenge an order of recovery if you:

didn’t get a ‘notice to owner’ telling you how to make a formal challenge

made a formal challenge on time but didn’t get a ‘notice of rejection’

appealed to an independent tribunal on time but didn’t get a response

have proof you’ve paid the penalty charge, such as a credit card statement

How to challenge

The form you use to challenge an order of recovery depends on whether it relates to:

a parking PCN - use form TE9

a Dart Charge PCN - use form TE9 Dart Charge

a low emission zone PCN - use form PE3 vehicle emissions

any other PCN, for example for driving in a bus lane - use form PE3

Send it to the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) within 21 days.

You may be able to get more time to challenge an order of recovery.

If your challenge is successful

The order of recovery will be withdrawn and bailiffs won’t be able to seize your property.

The council or authority that issued the PCN will then do one of the following:

cancel the PCN, for example because you paid it in full

issue a new notice to owner - you’ll have 28 days to pay or challenge

refer your case to an independent tribunal

Getting more time to challenge a court order

You can ask for more time to challenge a court order (‘order of recovery’) if you:

were contacted about a penalty charge notice (PCN) you didn’t know about

were contacted about a paid or cancelled PCN

didn’t get a response to your formal challenge (‘representation’) or appeal

Do this by making an ‘out of time’ challenge to the order of recovery.

Making an ‘out of time’ challenge

Use an ‘out of time’ form to explain why you’re making a late challenge. Send it with the form you need to challenge the order of recovery.

The ‘out of time’ form you use depends on whether it relates to:

a parking PCN

a Dart Charge PCN

any other PCN - for example for driving in a bus lane

What happens next

Bailiffs will be told to stop any action while your ‘out of time’ challenge is considered by the council or authority that issued the PCN.

If your ‘out of time’ challenge is accepted

Bailiffs will have to return any property they seized and the council or authority will decide what happens next if your challenge is successful.

If your ‘out of time’ challenge is refused

The Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) will review your ‘out of time’ challenge if it’s refused by the council or authority. You’ll get a letter to tell you if your challenge is successful or not.

If it’s not, you can ask a judge to review the TEC’s decision.

The council or authority that issued the PCN can also ask a judge to review the TEC’s decision.

Getting a judge to review the TEC’s decision

Send application notice N244 to the TEC with your fee within 14 days of the date the decision was made.

Read the N244 guidelines for help filling in the application.

Fee

How much you pay depends on whether you want to attend a hearing to present your case.

How you want your case to be decided | Fee

With hearing at your local county court | £255

Without hearing by a district judge | £100

If you’re on a low income, or you’re on certain benefits and don’t have much in savings, you might be able to get money off the fee.


Driving disqualifications

Overview

You can be banned (disqualified) from driving if you are either:

convicted of a driving offence

get 12 or more penalty points (endorsements) within 3 years

You’ll get a summons in the post that tells you when you must go to court.

Some disqualification rules are different in Northern Ireland.

How long a driving ban will last

The court will decide how long the disqualification will last, based on how serious they think the offence is.

You can be banned from driving if you already have 12 or more penalty points on your licence. Your ban can last:

6 months, if you get 12 or more penalty points within 3 years

12 months, if you get a second disqualification within 3 years

2 years, if you get a third disqualification within 3 years

Disqualified for 56 days or more

If you’re disqualified for 56 days or more you must apply for a new licence before driving again.

You might also have to retake your driving test or take an extended driving test before getting your full licence. The court will tell you if you have to do this.

Disqualified for less than 56 days

View your driving licence record online to check the disqualification. You cannot drive until it has ended.

You do not need to apply for a new licence before you can drive again.

Disqualification outside Great Britain

You cannot drive in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man if you’ve been banned from driving on your Great Britain driving licence.

This is called ‘mutual recognition of disqualification’. Disqualified drivers from Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man are also banned from driving in Great Britain.

Check when your disqualification ends

You can find the date your driving ban ends:

online

on the reminder form D27 that DVLA sends you 56 days before your disqualification ends

on the D27PH letter issued 90 days before certain drink-related disqualifications end

by contacting DVLA (if you’re in Northern Ireland, contact DVA)

Apply to reduce your disqualification period

You can ask the court to reduce your disqualification period after you’ve been banned from driving for:

2 years - if the disqualification was for fewer than 4 years

half the disqualification period - if it was for at least 4 but under 10 years

5 years - if the disqualification was for 10 years or more

You must have a good reason for asking for the disqualification to be reduced. For example, if you think the court made a legal mistake or there were reasons you committed the driving offence that the court did not take into account.

Write to the court that disqualified you with the date of offence, date of conviction and any other supporting information.

The court will tell DVLA if it decides to reduce your disqualification period. If it does, you’ll need to apply for a new licence.

If the court refuses your request you have to wait 3 months before you can ask again.

If your disqualification is reduced

Car or motorbike licences

Apply for a new licence by sending DVLA a completed form D1 ‘Application for a driving licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service or most Post Offices. You must pay a fee.

Lorry or bus licences

Apply for a new licence by sending DVLA a completed form D2 ‘Application for a lorry/bus licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service. You must pay a fee.

Northern Ireland

Apply to the DVA to renew your licence.

If you need to retake your test

If the court told you that you must take another driving test before driving again, you’ll have to apply for a new provisional licence.

You can drive as soon as your ban is over and you’ve passed the tests you need to take.

How to get a new licence

DVLA will send you a reminder 56 days before your disqualification ends - use this to apply for a new provisional driving licence. If you did not get a reminder, order an application form instead. Order form D1 for a car and motorbike licence or form D2 for a lorry and bus licence.

Book and take a theory and practical test (or compulsory basic training and motorcycle practical test if you ride a motorcycle). Book and take an extended practical test if the court told you to take one. The extended practical test lasts at least 60 minutes and has higher fees.

When you’ve passed the practical test, ask the examiner to arrange for your new licence to be sent to you - you can legally drive as soon as you’ve passed the practical test.

If you want to drive a large vehicle (category C) or a bus (category D) the local traffic commissioner must agree - DVLA will ask them when you apply for your new full licence.

There’s a different process in Northern Ireland.

If you’ve got a licence from an EU country

Do not apply for a provisional licence - you can use your EU driving licence to take the test instead.

Follow the usual rules for learning to drive until you retake your test and pass.

Changes to your name and address while disqualified

Tell DVLA if you change your name or address while disqualified.

Write with details of your old and new address, name if changed, your driving licence number (if known) and date of birth.

Disqualification for drink-driving

You can be disqualified if you’re found guilty of drink-driving. Depending on your offence, you can also be fined or sent to prison.

You’ll need to apply for a new licence after your disqualification ends.

If you’re disqualified from driving for 12 months or more, you might be able to reduce your ban by taking a drink-drive rehabilitation course.

High risk offenders

If you’re a ‘high risk offender’, you will not get your new licence until you can prove you’re fit to drive again. You’ll need to pass a medical examination with one of DVLA’s appointed doctors.

You’re a high risk offender if you:

were convicted of 2 drink driving offences within 10 years

were driving with an alcohol reading of at least 87.5 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of breath, 200 milligrammes (mg) of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, or 267.5 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of urine

refused to give the police a sample of breath, blood or urine to test for alcohol

refused to allow a sample of your blood to be tested for alcohol (for example if it was taken when you were unconscious)

You’ll get a D27PH renewal form 90 days before your disqualification ends. You must fill in the form and send it to DVLA to reapply for your licence.

Medical examination with a DVLA doctor

Once DVLA receive your application for a new licence, they’ll send you the doctors details so you can make an appointment.

You have to pay for your examination.

During the examination, you’ll:

complete a questionnaire about your medical history and use of alcohol

take part in a physical examination

have your blood tested

The process is different in Northern Ireland.

Disqualification for drug driving

You can be disqualified from driving for at least 1 year if you’re found guilty of drug driving. Depending on your offence, you can also be fined or sent to prison.

You must apply for a new licence before you can drive again.


Driving abroad

Driving abroad on holiday

You need to take your Great Britain or Northern Ireland driving licence with you to drive abroad. Check yours is still valid and renew your driving licence online if it’s expired or about to expire. You’ll need to apply to renew your licence at least a week before you travel.

If you’re taking your own vehicle, you also need to take your log book (V5C) and your insurance certificate.

If you’re taking a vehicle abroad that you’ve hired or leased in the UK, you’ll need a VE103 certificate.

Check if you need an international driving permit (IDP)

You might need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in some countries. Check if you need an IDP.

You can get IDPs over the counter at the Post Office. You might need one for each country you’re visiting.

Do not apply for an IDP if you’re moving abroad. You’ll need to either exchange your UK licence or apply for a new one in the country you’re moving to.

Check the overseas driving rules

Make sure you follow overseas driving rules, including local speed limits and drink driving laws. You may be breaking the law and get a fine if you do not.

Depending on the country you’re visiting you may need:

extra equipment - for example, you need a reflective jacket and a warning triangle in many countries

emission stickers (permits) in some European cities - you may need to buy these weeks before you go abroad

headlight converter stickers

a GB sticker

If you’re hiring a car, it’s your responsibility to check you have the equipment you need.

Check what you need to do if you’re driving in the EU.

Check the travel advice for all countries.

Check your insurance if you’re taking your own vehicle

Your UK vehicle insurance gives you a minimum of third party cover to drive your vehicle in EU countries. Check with your insurer if your policy covers extra things like theft or damage.

You need to carry a physical copy of a ‘green card’ for your vehicle if you’re driving in:

the EU (including Ireland)

Andorra

Iceland

Liechtenstein

Norway

Serbia

Switzerland

In other countries, you may need additional insurance and a green card to show you’re covered. Check the travel advice for the country you’re driving in.

Towing your trailer or caravan abroad

Check if you need to register your trailer before you can take it abroad.

When driving in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland, you need to carry a separate green card for both:

the vehicle you’re driving

the trailer or caravan you’re towing

In other countries, you may need additional insurance and a green card for each trailer or caravan you tow. Check what you need to bring with your insurer before you travel.

Hiring a car abroad

Your hire company may ask to see your driving licence information when you pick up the car. You can share this by getting a licence ‘check code’. You can do this up to 21 days before your trip.

If you’re hiring a car, insurance is included. Check what you’re covered for with the hire company.

Check if you need an international driving permit (IDP)

You may need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in some countries. The permit you may need depends on:

which country you’re visiting

how long you’re staying

You need to have a valid Great Britain (GB) or Northern Ireland driving licence to get an IDP.

Driving in Europe

You do not need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if you have a photocard driving licence issued in the UK.

You might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have either:

a paper driving licence

a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

Check with the embassy of the country you will be driving in.

Check which IDP you need

Check the table to find out if you need an IDP.  There are 3 types of IDP:

The IDP you need depends on what country you’re visiting.

If you’re travelling through more than one country, you might need more than one type of IDP.

If the country you’re visiting is not included in the table, check with the embassy of the country you’re travelling to.

If you’re hiring a car, check with your car hire company.

If you already have an IDP, make sure it’s still valid in the country you’re visiting.

Country or territory | Type of IDP | More information

Albania | 1968 |

Algeria | 1949 |

Andorra | 1949 |

Argentina | 1949 |

Armenia | 1968 |

Australia | 1949 |

Austria | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Azerbaijan | 1968 |

Bahamas | 1968 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Bahrain | 1968 | IDP needed for car hire, and for stays longer than 90 days. You must get your permit certified by local authorities when you arrive.

Bangladesh | 1949 |

Barbados | 1949 |

Belarus | 1968 |

Belgium | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months. If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Belgian Embassy.

Benin | 1949 |

Bosnia and Herzegovina | 1968 |

Botswana | 1949 | IDP needed for car hire.

Brazil | 1968 | You need to get a certified translation of your IDP from the British consulate.

Bulgaria | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Burkina Faso | 1949 |

Cambodia | 1949 |

Canada | 1949 |

Cape Verde | 1968 |

Central African Republic | 1968 |

Chile | 1949 |

Congo | 1949 |

Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) | 1968 |

Croatia | None | If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Croatian Embassy.

Cuba | 1968 |

Cyprus | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for visits up to 30 days. For visits longer than 30 days you will need a 1949 IDP. If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1949 IDP for any length of visit. Check with the High Commission of Cyprus.

Czech Republic | None | If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Czech Republic Embassy.

Democratic Republic of Congo | 1968 |

Denmark | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 90 days.

Dominican Republic | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Ecuador | 1949 |

Egypt | 1949 |

Estonia | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. If you hold a paper driving licence you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Estonian Embassy.

Eswatini (previously Swaziland) | 1949 | If you have an older, paper UK driving licence, you must take another form of photographic ID, such as your passport. You may need to show an IDP to your insurance company if you’re involved in an accident.

Fiji | 1949 |

Finland | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

France | None | If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the French Embassy.

French Polynesia | 1968 |

Georgia | 1968 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Germany | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months. If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the German Embassy.

Ghana | 1949 |

Greece | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Guam | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 30 days. If you have an older, paper UK driving licence, you must take another form of photographic ID, such as your passport. You may need to show an IDP to your insurance company if you’re involved in an accident.

Guatemala | 1949 |

Guyana | 1968 |

Haiti | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Hungary | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 12 months. If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Hungarian Embassy.

Iceland | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 30 days.

India | 1949 |

Iran | 1968 |

Iraq | 1968 |

Ireland | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 12 months.

Israel | 1968 |

Italy | None | If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Italian Embassy.

Jamaica | 1949 |

Japan | 1949 |

Jordan | 1949 |

Kazakhstan | 1968 |

Kenya | 1968 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Kuwait | 1968 |

Kyrgyzstan | 1968 |

Laos | 1949 |

Latvia | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Lebanon | 1949 |

Lesotho | 1949 |

Liberia | 1968 |

Libya | 1949 |

Liechtenstein | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Lithuania | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months.

Luxembourg | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months.

Macao (Macau) | 1949 |

Madagascar | 1949 |

Malawi | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Malaysia (Sabah) | 1949 |

Mali | 1949 |

Malta | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 12 months. If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1949 IDP. Check with the Malta High Commission.

Mexico | 1926 |

Moldova | 1968 |

Monaco | 1968 |

Mongolia | 1968 |

Montenegro | 1968 |

Morocco | 1968 |

Myanmar (previously Burma) | 1968 |

Namibia | 1949 | IDP needed for car hire. If you have an older, paper UK driving licence, you must take another form of photographic ID, such as your passport. You may need to show an IDP to your insurance company if you’re involved in an accident.

Netherlands | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

New Zealand | 1949 |

Niger | 1968 |

Nigeria | 1968 |

North Macedonia | 1968 |

Norway | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 90 days. If you hold a paper driving licence you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Norwegian Embassy.

Pakistan | 1968 |

Papua New Guinea | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 30 days.

Paraguay | 1949 |

Peru | 1968 |

Philippines | 1968 | IDP needed for car hire, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Poland | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months.

Portugal | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months.

Qatar | 1968 |

Romania | None | If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the Romanian Embassy.

Russian Federation | 1968 |

Rwanda | 1949 |

San Marino | 1968 |

Saudi Arabia | 1968 | IDP needed for car hire.

Senegal | 1968 |

Serbia | 1968 |

Seychelles | 1968 |

Sierra Leone | 1949 |

Singapore | 1949 | IDP needed for car hire, and for stays longer than 30 days.

Slovakia | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months. For visits longer than 6 months you’ll need a 1968 IDP.

Slovenia | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 90 days.

Somalia | 1926 |

South Africa | 1968 | If you have an older, paper UK driving licence, you must take another form of photographic ID, such as your passport. You may need to show an IDP to your insurance company if you’re involved in an accident.

South Korea | 1949 |

Spain (including Balearic and Canary Isles) | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 6 months.

Sri Lanka | 1949 | As well as the IDP, you must get a Sri Lankan recognition permit from the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) in Colombo.

St. Lucia | 1949 | Show your UK driving licence or IDP to the police to get a visitor’s licence.

St. Vincent | 1949 | Show your UK driving licence or IDP to the police to get a visitor’s licence.

Sweden | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here for periods up to 12 months.

Switzerland | None | You do not need an IDP to drive here.

Syria | 1949 |

Tajikistan | 1968 |

Taiwan | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 30 days.

Thailand | 1949 |

Togo | 1949 |

Trinidad & Tobago | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Tunisia | 1968 |

Turkey | 1968 |

Turkmenistan | 1968 |

Uganda | 1949 | IDP needed for stays longer than 90 days.

Ukraine | 1968 |

United Arab Emirates | 1968 |

United States | 1949 | If you have an older, paper UK driving licence, you must take another form of photographic ID, such as your passport. You may need to show an IDP to your insurance company if you’re involved in an accident.

Uruguay | 1968 |

Uzbekistan | 1968 |

Vatican City | 1949 |

Venezuela | 1949 |

Vietnam | 1968 |

Zimbabwe | 1968 |

Get an international driving permit (IDP)

You can get an IDP over the counter at the Post Office.

They cost £5.50 and you must:

live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland

have a full UK driving licence

be 18 or over

Check if you need an IDP first.

A 1926 or 1949 permit lasts for 12 months. A 1968 permit lasts for 3 years or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first.

Driving if you move abroad

You need to get a local driving licence if you move abroad. Check with the driving licence authorities there to find out how to apply.

In some countries you can exchange your UK licence without taking another driving test.

If you move to an EU country, check the rules for exchanging your licence in the EU.


Taking a vehicle out of the UK

For 12 months or more

You must tell DVLA if you’re taking your vehicle out of the UK, including to the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), Isle of Man or Ireland, for 12 months or more.

This is known as permanent export. You’ll need to:

Fill in the ‘permanent export’ section of your vehicle log book (V5C) and detach it from the log book.

Send the completed ‘permanent export’ section to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD. Include a letter if you’ve moved abroad and want your vehicle tax refund (if you’re entitled to one) sent to your new address.

Keep the rest of your log book (V5C) - you need it to register your vehicle in the country you’re taking it to.

Update the address on your driving licence if you’re moving home.

If you’re due a refund, it will take longer than usual because of coronavirus (COVID-19). The refund is worked out from the date DVLA gets your ‘permanent export’ section.

If you’re buying a vehicle to take abroad make sure the seller follows the correct process for vehicles that will be registered in another country. They must give you the full log book (V5C) - not just the new keeper slip.

If you do not have a vehicle log book (V5C)

Before you leave the UK

You need to get a vehicle log book (V5C) before you leave the UK. DVLA cannot send a vehicle log book to an address outside the UK.

When you get your log book, fill in and send the ‘permanent export’ section to DVLA.

It will take longer than usual to get your V5C log book because of coronavirus. If you do not receive it before you leave the UK, contact the driving authority of the country you’re travelling to to find out what documents you need.

If you’ve already left the UK

Contact the driving authority of the country you’re taking the vehicle to. They’ll tell you what documents you’ll need to provide to register the vehicle there.

You also need to send a letter to DVLA to tell them you’ve taken the vehicle out of the country. Include:

your name and address

the date you took the vehicle out of the country

where DVLA can send the vehicle tax refund (if you’re entitled to one)

If you cannot get a vehicle log book (V5C)

Contact the driving authority of the country you’re taking the vehicle to - they’ll tell you how to register your vehicle.

Send a letter to DVLA to tell them you’ve taken the vehicle out of the country. Include:

your name and address

If the ‘permanent export’ section is missing

If the ‘permanent export’ section is not in the log book, send a letter to DVLA to tell them you’ve taken the vehicle out of the country. Include:

your name and address

Moving your vehicle between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Fill in the change of address section in your log book and send it to DVLA.

Personalised registrations

You’ll need to transfer or retain your personalised registration before exporting your vehicle. Otherwise you’ll lose your right to the registration number.

For less than 12 months

You must take your vehicle log book (V5C) with you if you’re taking your vehicle abroad for less than 12 months. You may have to show it if you’re stopped at a port or while driving abroad.

Your V5C must show your most recent address in the UK.

Apply in advance if you need to get a V5C or update your V5C before you travel. It will take longer than usual to get your new V5C because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

UK law still applies to a UK-registered vehicle if you take it abroad for less than 12 months. That means you need to make sure:

your vehicle is taxed in the UK while it’s abroad

you have a current MOT

you have insurance

You’ll also need to make sure you meet any international or national conditions for licensing and taxation.

Check if you need to pay import duty

You may need to pay import duty on your vehicle if you take it outside the UK.  Check with the authorities in the country you’re taking your vehicle to.

You do not need to pay import duty to take your vehicle from Northern Ireland to Great Britain or the EU.

If you’re going to a non-EU country that charges duty, you can buy a CPD Carnet. This lets you take your vehicle into the country temporarily without paying duty. It can also make crossing the border simpler.

You’ll have to pay a fee and a deposit. You usually get the carnet within 4 weeks of applying.

Taking a vehicle to Liechtenstein, Mexico or Somalia

You must take an International Certificate for Motor Vehicles (ICMV) with you as well as your V5C.

Apply for an ICMV.

Bringing your vehicle back untaxed

If you bring your vehicle back to the UK untaxed you cannot drive it back into the UK - it’ll have to be transported and a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) must be made straight away.

Taking hired or leased vehicles abroad temporarily

You’ll need a VE103 vehicle on hire certificate to show you’re allowed to use a hired or leased vehicle if you’re driving it abroad.

You can get a VE103 for a fee from the:

British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA)

Logistics UK

RAC Motoring Services

Road Haulage Association (RHA)

Taxes if you buy a new vehicle to take abroad

If you buy a new or used vehicle to take out of the UK, you might not have to pay UK VAT or vehicle taxes such as the registration fee.

What you pay and how you pay it depends on where you’re exporting to and from.

Export your vehicle with the Personal Export Scheme

You may be able to use the Personal Export Scheme to take a new or used vehicle:

from Great Britain to anywhere outside the UK

from Northern Ireland to a non-EU country

When you buy a new vehicle and export under the scheme, you do not pay UK VAT. But you still have to pay vehicle taxes and the registration fee.

You must be planning to leave the UK for at least 6 months with the vehicle. You usually have to be personally driving your vehicle.

What you need to do

Fill in form VAT 410 (your supplier will give you a copy) and give it to your supplier.

You can drive the vehicle in the UK for up to 6 months after the delivery date (or 12 months for non-UK and non-EU residents) - it must then be exported.

The date for export of the vehicle is shown on the VX302 (for new cars) or the VAT 410 (for used cars).

After export send the DVLA the:

VX302 - new vehicles

V5C - second-hand vehicles

If you do not export the vehicle on time you’ll have to pay the UK VAT.

Export your vehicle from Northern Ireland to the EU

If you buy a new vehicle in Northern Ireland to take to an EU country, you do not have to pay UK VAT if you:

take the vehicle out of the UK within 2 months

do not drive the vehicle in the UK unless you register and tax it

Your supplier will get you to fill in form VAT 411.

You’ll have to declare your vehicle and pay VAT in the other country when you get there.