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 (the trailer registration plate) 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 (a registered number plate 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 (the registration certificate). 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 (the registration certificate) 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.


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 (your vehicle)’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 (your vehicle)

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 (a serious safety defect) 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 (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (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 (a serious safety 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 (a serious safety defect) (if you have them)

If you do not have all of the vehicle details, you can get some vehicle information from DVLA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)).

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 (Things) can be found during routine maintenance and servicing

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

they (Things)’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 (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (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 (the fault) becomes unsafe in the future

your vehicle fails its next MOT


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 (the 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) (the EU)

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 (a 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 (Your 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 (the Croatian 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 (an IDP) 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.


Vehicle registration

Overview

You have to register a car or any other vehicle as soon as you’ve:

bought it (a car or any other vehicle)

built it (a car or any other vehicle)

rebuilt or altered it (a car or any other vehicle)

imported it (a car or any other vehicle)

You do this (register) by filling in forms and sending them to DVLA. The forms you have to send depend on your circumstances.

DVLA may need to inspect your vehicle to:

make sure the vehicle (a car or any other vehicle) exists, has been assembled into a complete vehicle and the log book (V5C) is in your name

update their (DVLA) records because of changes you’ve made to the vehicle (a car or any other vehicle)

They (DVLA) will send you a letter if they (DVLA) need to do this (update). You will not have to pay a fee.

Use the different registration schemes for the motor trade if you’re a vehicle manufacturer, importer or VAT-registered trader.

New and used vehicles

New vehicles

The dealer will usually register a brand new vehicle for you. If they do, you’ll get a V5C registration certificate (log book). It will take longer than usual to get this because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

If the dealer will not do it (register), you can register the vehicle (a brand new vehicle) yourself.

If your vehicle is a new heavy goods vehicle (HGV), you also need to record the details of your HGV with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Used vehicles

You need to tax a used vehicle before you can use it on the road.

The way a used vehicle is registered to you depends on whether it has a V5C registration certificate (log book).

Vehicle has a registration certificate (V5C)

The seller can register the vehicle (Vehicle) to you online or by post.

The seller must follow a different process if you’re buying a vehicle to take abroad including the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), Isle of Man or Ireland. They (The seller) must give you the full log book (V5C) and not send it to DVLA.

Register online

The seller will need to:

register the vehicle (Vehicle) to you online

fill in the green ‘new keeper’ slip and give it to you

destroy the V5C (the full log book (V5C))

DVLA will update the vehicle record immediately and they (DVLA) will aim to send out a new V5C to you within 3 to 5 days.

Register by post

If you cannot register the vehicle (Vehicle) online, you can register it (Vehicle) by post. The seller will need to:

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

sign the declaration in section 8 if they (The seller) have the older style log book (you must sign the declaration too)

fill in the new keeper slip (the green ‘new keeper’ slip) and give it (the green ‘new keeper’ slip) to you

send the V5C (the full log book (V5C)) to DVLA

DVLA aims to send out a new V5C to you as soon as possible, usually 4 weeks after getting the old V5C (the full log book (V5C)) from the seller.  This may take longer because of coronavirus.

If you do not get it (a new V5C) within 4 weeks:

complete form V62 - ‘Application for a vehicle registration certificate’

send it to DVLA with the new keeper slip given to you by the seller (the green ‘new keeper’ slip) - if you do not send in the new keeper slip (the green ‘new keeper’ slip), you’ll have to pay a fee

Download form V62 or get it from any Post Office branch.

Contact DVLA if you do not receive anything 6 weeks after sending in form V62.

Vehicle does not have a registration certificate

DVLA advises that you should not buy a vehicle that does not have a registration certificate (V5C).

Register the vehicle in your name by using form V62 ‘Application for a vehicle registration certificate’. You’ll have to pay a fee. See the section above for how to get form V62.

Checking your new registration certificate

When you receive your registration certificate (your new registration certificate), it’s your responsibility to check all the details are correct. If anything is incorrect, make the changes on the certificate (your new registration certificate) and send it (your new registration certificate) back to DVLA.

You’ll get the replacement certificate within 4 weeks.

New registrations

Your vehicle may not have been registered before with DVLA if it’s:

brand new

a kit car

imported

been rebuilt or radically altered

an old or classic vehicle

If you buy a brand new vehicle, the dealer will usually arrange for it to be registered. Otherwise, you need to follow the process below.

Making an application

Fill in form V55/4 or V55/5

For any type of newly registered vehicle, you must fill in either a:

V55/4 form to register a new vehicle, including new imported vehicles and newly-built (kit) cars

V55/5 form to register a used vehicle, including rebuilt vehicles, used imported vehicles and older vehicles that have never been registered

Provide copies of identity documents

Send in a photocopy of your photocard driving licence with your application form to prove your identity.

If you cannot do this, you must send in photocopies of one document that proves your name and another document that proves your address.

Documents you can use to confirm your name include:

passport

marriage certificate

decree nisi or absolute

birth certificate

current UK paper driving licence (not a paper counterpart)

Documents you can use to confirm your address include:

recent utility bill (within the last 3 months) - for example gas, electricity, water, landline

recent bank or building society statement (within the last 3 months)

medical card

council tax bill for current year

You can fill in form V959 - ‘Notification of name and address check’ instead of these documents (identity documents) to prove your identity if you’re a current DVLA trade plate holder.

Supporting documents needed for all vehicles

As well as documents to prove your identity, you must also send:

payment for the vehicle tax

the new registration fee of £55, if you have to pay it (the vehicle tax)

a current MOT certificate, if the vehicle is over 3 years old (over 4 years old in Northern Ireland)

a certificate of newness (or declaration of newness for imported vehicles), if the vehicle is new

proof of vehicle approval if the vehicle is under 10 years old (unless it (the vehicle)’s exempt from vehicle approval)

any documents you have relating to the vehicle, for example build plans if it (the vehicle)’s a kit car

an insurance certificate or cover note (if you’re registering the vehicle to an address in Northern Ireland)

Supporting documents needed for some vehicles

You may have to send extra forms and documents if your vehicle is:

imported

kit-built, rebuilt, kit-converted or radically altered

an old vehicle

a reconstructed classic vehicle

After you’ve applied

DVLA might need to inspect your vehicle. If your application is approved, DVLA will send you a V5C registration certificate (sometimes called a log book).

Because of coronavirus (COVID-19) it’s taking longer than usual to get a new registration certificate.

Your V5C shows:

the vehicle’s registration number

the vehicle keeper’s name and address

other information about the vehicle (the vehicle’s) (the make, vehicle identification number (VIN) and number of previous keepers)

DVLA will also return your identity documents.

You’ll need to provide a prepaid self-addressed, special delivery envelope if you want the documents (your identity documents) returned by special delivery.

DVLA cannot guarantee the return of the documents (your identity documents) by a specific date.

New registrations fee

You’ll have to pay a fee of £55 if you’re registering and taxing a vehicle for the first time with DVLA.

You can pay by cheque or postal order. You cannot send cash. Damaged or altered cheques will not be accepted.

You do not have to pay for some vehicles, including:

those first registered and licensed in the disabled exempt taxation class

historic vehicles previously registered with the old local authorities (late conversions)

vehicles previously registered in the United Kingdom

imported vehicles previously registered under the personal export scheme and new means of transport scheme

visiting forces vehicles

vehicles registered under the direct export scheme

vehicles registered for off-road use only

crown exempt vehicles

Rebuilt vehicles

Your vehicle must meet the road vehicles regulations if you use it on the road.

How to register

You must follow all the instructions for registering a new vehicle.

You must include the following with your application:

form V627/1 - ‘Built up vehicle inspection report’

evidence of type approval, if necessary

the vehicle registration certificate for the original vehicle

official receipts for any parts used

photographs of the vehicle

Contact DVLA if you’re not sure about what you need to provide.

Send your application to:

Vehicle type approval

You’ll have to get type approval if your vehicle does not qualify to keep its original registration number.

Keep a vehicle’s original registration number

A rebuilt vehicle can keep its original registration number (a vehicle’s original registration number) if you can prove you’ve used:

the original unmodified chassis or bodyshell (car or light van)

a new chassis or monocoque bodyshell of the same specification as the original (car or light van)

the original unmodified frame (motorbike)

a new frame of the same specification as the original (motorbike)

You must also have 2 other major components from the original vehicle (a vehicle’s) from the following lists.

For cars or light vans:

suspension (front and back)

steering assembly

axles (both)

transmission

engine

For motorbikes:

forks

wheels

engine

gear box

Get a Q registration number

DVLA will give your vehicle a ‘Q’ prefix registration number if you do not meet the conditions for keeping the original registration number (a vehicle’s original registration number).

Your vehicle (A rebuilt vehicle) must pass the relevant type approval test to get a Q registration number.

Vehicles with a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) must never reappear as complete vehicles or be presented for registration, though some components may be recycled. You cannot keep the original registration or vehicle identification number.

Kit-built vehicles

Your vehicle must meet the road vehicles regulations if you use it on the road.

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

How to register

You must follow all the instructions for registering a new vehicle.

You must include the following with your application:

form V627/1 - ‘Built up vehicle inspection report’

evidence of type approval – see ‘Vehicle type approval’ below

official receipts for the vehicle (a new vehicle) and any parts used

build plans

evidence that any ‘reconditioned’ part is to an ‘as new’ standard

Contact DVLA if you’re not sure about what you need to provide.

Send your application to:

Vehicle type approval

All kit-built vehicles have to get type approval.

Get a current registration number

You can register a kit-built car, motorcycle or tricycle with a current registration number if you can prove it’s all made from new parts supplied by the manufacturer.

You can also get a current registration number for a kit-built car, motorbike or tricycle built with one reconditioned part if:

you can show that the part (one reconditioned part) has been reconditioned to an ‘as new’ standard, in line with the manufacturer’s (the manufacturer) guidelines

the part (one reconditioned part) is not the chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame

Get a Q registration number

DVLA will give your vehicle a ‘Q’ prefix registration number if you do not meet the conditions for getting a current registration number.

Your vehicle must pass the relevant type approval test to get a Q registration number.

Kit-converted vehicles

A kit-converted vehicle has had:

a kit of new parts added to an existing vehicle, or

old parts added to a new kit

The general appearance of the vehicle (A kit-converted vehicle) will change because of the kit.

How to register

You’ll need to include the following with your application:

the vehicle registration certificate for the original vehicle

evidence of type approval, if necessary – see ‘Vehicle type approval’ below

official receipts for any parts used

build plans

photographs of the vehicle (the original vehicle)

Send your application to:

Keep a vehicle’s original registration number

You can apply to keep a kit converted vehicle’s original registration number if you can prove you’ve used 2 original major parts along with the original unmodified:

chassis (car or light van)

monocoque bodyshell (car or light van)

frame (motorbike)

Get an age-related registration number

You can apply for an age-related number if you can prove you’ve used 2 original major parts along with:

a new monocoque bodyshell, chassis or frame from a specialist kit manufacturer

an altered chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame from the original vehicle

The registration number will be based on the age of the original vehicle.

Your vehicle must pass the relevant type approval test to get an age-related registration number.

Get a Q registration number

DVLA will give your vehicle a ‘Q’ prefix registration number if you do not meet the conditions for getting an original or age-related registration number.

Radically altered vehicles

Your vehicle must comply with the road vehicles regulations if you use it on the road.

Radically altered vehicles are vehicles that have been altered from their original specification, but are not kit conversions.

How to register

You must follow all the instructions for registering a new vehicle.

form V627/1 - ‘Built up vehicle inspection report’

evidence of type approval, if necessary

the vehicle registration certificate

official receipts for any parts used

photographs of the vehicle

Contact DVLA if you’re not sure about what you need to provide.

Send your application to:

Get a vehicle registration number

DVLA uses a points system to decide what registration number to give a radically altered vehicle.

Keep the original registration number (a Q registration number)

Your vehicle must have 8 or more points from the table below if you want to keep the original registration number (a Q registration number). 5 of these points must come from having the original or new and unmodified chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame.

Part | Points

Chassis, monocoque bodyshell (body and chassis as one unit) or frame - original or new and unmodified (direct from manufacturer) | 5

Suspension (front and back) - original | 2

Axles (both) - original | 2

Transmission - original | 2

Steering assembly - original | 2

Engine - original | 1

Get a ‘Q’ registration number

You will not be able to keep your vehicle’s original registration number if one of the following applies:

it (your vehicle’s) has fewer than 8 points

it (your vehicle’s) has a second-hand or altered chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame

there’s evidence that 2 vehicles have been welded together to form one (ie ‘cut and shut’)

Your vehicle (your vehicle’s) must pass the relevant type approval test to get a ‘Q’ prefix registration number.

Old vehicles

Your vehicle must meet the road vehicles regulations if you use it on the road.

If you have a classic vehicle that has not been taxed since 1983, it might not be registered with DVLA.

If this is the case and you want to register it (a classic vehicle that has not been taxed since 1983), follow all the instructions for registering a vehicle for the first time.

Get your vehicle’s original registration number

You may be able to register an old vehicle under its original registration number if either:

it (an old vehicle)’s never been registered at DVLA

it (an old vehicle) has an age-related registration number

To do this (register), you’ll have to:

follow the instructions for new registrations

fill in form V765 - ‘Application to register a vehicle under its original registration number’

get form V765 endorsed by a vehicle owners’ club

provide a recent photo of the vehicle (a classic vehicle that has not been taxed since 1983) and documentary evidence that links it (a classic vehicle that has not been taxed since 1983) to the original number (its original registration number), for example the original log book

Send the forms to ‘K and R’ at DVLA.

K and R (‘K and R’ at DVLA)
DVLA
SA99 1ZZ

After you’ve applied

DVLA will issue a V5C registration certificate and give you either:

the original registration number (its original registration number) - if this (give) happens, you will not be allowed to transfer it (its original registration number) or put it (its original registration number) onto retention at a later date

another number appropriate to the age of the vehicle (a classic vehicle that has not been taxed since 1983) - if this is a non-suffix or prefix number, it will also be non-transferable

Northern Ireland

Send a completed V62 form and the RF60 form if you want to register a historic vehicle in Northern Ireland.

DVLA will register the vehicle (a historic vehicle) and issue a new V5C to the registered keeper. You should receive this within 4 weeks.

Reconstructed classic vehicles

Your vehicle must comply with the road vehicles regulations if you use it on the road.

How to register

You must follow all the instructions for registering a new vehicle.

You must include the following with your application:

written report from the appropriate vehicle owners’ club

form V627/1 - ‘Built up vehicle inspection report’

evidence of type approval, if necessary

official receipts for any parts used

Get an age-related registration number

DVLA can only recognise your vehicle as a reconstructed classic vehicle if it meets certain criteria. It must be:

built from genuine period components from more than one vehicle, all over 25 years old and of the same specification as the original vehicle

a true reflection of the marque

The appropriate vehicle owners’ club for the vehicle type (‘marque’) must inspect the vehicle (your vehicle) and confirm in writing that it (your vehicle):

has been inspected

is a true reflection of the marque

is comprised of genuine period components all over 25 years old

They must also give manufacture dates for the major components.

DVLA will assign an age-related registration number to the vehicle (your vehicle) based on the youngest component used.

New or replica parts

Your vehicle will not get an age-related registration number if it includes new or replica parts. DVLA will give your vehicle a ‘Q’ prefix registration number. Your vehicle must pass the relevant type approval test to get a ‘Q’ prefix registration number.

Vehicle identification number

All vehicles registered in the UK must have a unique, stamped-in vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration number.

Find your VIN

The VIN (vehicle identification number) is usually stamped into the chassis of the vehicle. It (vehicle identification number) may be lost if you rebuild or modify your vehicle.

When you may need a new VIN or registration

If you have a kit car, rebuild, or radically altered vehicle, DVLA will usually have to assess it.

You may be able to keep its (a kit car, rebuild, or radically altered vehicle) original registration number if you can prove the vehicle’s (a kit car, rebuild, or radically altered vehicle) original VIN (vehicle identification number). If you cannot, you’ll have to apply for a replacement identity number.

DVLA will give you an authorisation letter to get the vehicle stamped with the new VIN if your vehicle passes its (DVLA) assessment.

You then need to register the vehicle - you can only do this when DVLA receives confirmation it (the vehicle)’s been stamped with the correct VIN (the new VIN).

'Q' registration numbers

DVLA issues ‘Q’ registration numbers to vehicles whose age or identity is in doubt.

If this (issues) happens, any original vehicle registration number will become invalid and you must not display it (its (a kit car, rebuild, or radically altered vehicle) original registration number) again.

To get a ‘Q’ registration number, your vehicle has to pass a type approval process.


Roadside vehicle checks for commercial drivers

Checks on your vehicle

As a commercial driver, you might be asked to stop by the police or a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) officer. They can stop vans, lorries, buses and coaches.

The police and DVSA have the power to carry out spot checks on your vehicle and issue prohibitions if necessary. A prohibition prevents you from driving until you get a problem with your vehicle fixed.

Police and DVSA officers can also issue fixed penalties if you commit an offence. Some of these are graduated depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the offence.

It’s your responsibility to make sure your vehicle is roadworthy.

How to recognise a DVSA officer

DVSA officers wear yellow visibility jackets with either the VOSA or DVSA logo, and they’ll always carry a DVSA warrant card.

Their (DVSA officers) vehicles are marked with a black and yellow print on the side and either a VOSA or DVSA logo on the bonnet.

What happens when you’re stopped

The checks are carried out either at the roadside or at dedicated testing sites. The checks are used to keep unsafe vehicles off the road.

The officer checks that the vehicle is not breaking any rules and regulations. This includes:

checking authorised load weights and type of load permitted

checking vehicles for roadworthiness and mechanical faults

looking at your tachograph records

making sure you have a valid occupational driving licence

Your vehicle could be impounded if you commit a series of serious offences.

Foreign-registered vehicles are subject to the same rules as vehicles registered in the UK.

If you’re carrying a high-value load you can keep your engine running, doors locked and windows closed until you’re sure you’ve been stopped by a genuine police or DVSA officer.

If you do not stop

Not stopping when asked to by a uniformed officer is an offence. The incident will be officially recorded and you’ll be interviewed later on.

You may then face court action or be reported to the Traffic Commissioner, who may remove or suspend your operator’s licence.

Making sure your vehicle is roadworthy

You’re responsible for maintaining the roadworthiness of your vehicle. This will help avoid problems with vehicle checks.

Driver responsibilities

You must ensure your vehicle is safe to drive before setting off on a journey. You should carry out a walkaround check of the vehicle before your journey and check the:

lights

tyres

wheel fixings

bodywork

trailer coupling

load and other equipment

Download guidance for walkaround checks for public service vehicle (PSV) and heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers.

You’re also responsible for reporting any defects in writing to whoever’s in charge of sorting out vehicle defects in your organisation. Reports should include the:

vehicle registration or identification mark

date of inspection

details of the defects

name of the person reporting the defects (any defects)

Operator responsibilities

You must carry out safety inspections before you use a vehicle for the first time - even if you’re just leasing, hiring or borrowing the vehicle.

You must also:

make sure there are regular safety inspections

give drivers clear written instructions of their responsibilities so they understand what they should do

have a system to ensure that non-roadworthy vehicles are taken out of service

Safety inspections must be carried out by trained inspectors with a good knowledge of the appropriate Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) inspection manuals.

Roadside prohibitions

You could be given a prohibition by a police officer or an officer from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You could either get an immediate or delayed prohibition, depending on how dangerous your vehicle is before the faults are fixed.

Immediate prohibition

It’s likely your vehicle will be immobilised and you will not be able to drive it if you get a prohibition that comes into effect immediately. You could also be prosecuted.

Delayed prohibition

If you get a prohibition with a delayed effect, you’ll be able to drive your vehicle away and the operator will have up to 10 days to get it fixed. It will then need to be reinspected and the prohibition removed before it can be used on the road again.

Types of prohibition

Make sure you give the prohibition notice to the vehicle operator and owner. They’ll find details of how to clear it on the back.

Overload prohibition notice

If your vehicle is overloaded then you will be issued with an immediate prohibition notice and your vehicle may be immobilised. Examiners can also direct the vehicle (your vehicle) to somewhere nearby, where the load can be redistributed or removed.

A copy of the notice (the prohibition notice) is sent to the owner or operator of the vehicle (your vehicle).

Roadworthiness prohibition (PG9)

This is given for mechanical problems or for the condition of a vehicle’s bodywork and equipment. It could have an immediate or delayed effect depending on how severe the defect is.

DVSA has published a list of defects explaining whether immediate or delayed prohibitions are issued.

‘S’ marked roadworthiness prohibition

This (‘S’ marked roadworthiness prohibition) is given when the examiner believes a severe defect is due to significant breakdown in the vehicle’s (your vehicle) maintenance procedures.

You would not get this type of prohibition for defects you cannot have known about before your journey, eg:

a problem that could have occurred during the journey (your journey)

a problem you could not reasonably have been expected to have noticed (for example an underside defect)

You could get an ‘S’ marked prohibition if the examiner believes there’s been a significant breakdown in the maintenance procedures agreed as part of the operator’s licence.

The prohibition (an ‘S’ marked prohibition) can start immediately and you or the operator (the operator’s) could be prosecuted. DVSA will follow up with an assessment of the operator’s maintenance procedures.

Variation of roadworthiness prohibition

You could get this (Variation of roadworthiness prohibition) if an immediate problem with your vehicle has been temporarily or permanently fixed at the roadside but others remain.

It (Variation of roadworthiness prohibition) means you can return to your operating centre or garage to permanently repair the initial problem (an immediate problem with your vehicle) and other faults.

You might get a different type of prohibition notice.

Drivers’ hours prohibition

You get this (Drivers’ hours prohibition) if you have not followed the rules for drivers’ hours and tachographs.

You’ll usually get a fine - but you could also be prosecuted or have your vehicle immobilised.

Hazchem prohibition

This (Hazchem prohibition) is given when a problem with carrying dangerous goods is found. Fixing the problem is usually enough to get the prohibition (Hazchem prohibition) lifted.

If you disagree with the prohibition (Hazchem prohibition)

You can complain to the local police force or DVSA office that gave you the prohibition (Hazchem prohibition). Call DVSA if you need their (DVSA) contact details.

Do not get your vehicle repaired or adjusted while you’re making your complaint.

If you’re unhappy with the outcome, complain to DVSA within 14 days of getting the prohibition (Hazchem prohibition).

Driving without a valid operator's licence

You need a valid operator’s licence if you drive the following for any type of business:

a public service vehicle (PSV)

a heavy goods vehicle (HGV)

If you or your employer do not have a valid operator’s licence, your vehicle could be impounded and scrapped after 21 days unless you or your employer appeal to the local Traffic Commissioner.

Appeals can only be made when:

you can prove that the vehicle (your vehicle) was seized wrongly (because you or your employer had an operator’s licence when it (your vehicle) was seized)

the vehicle (your vehicle) was exempt from operator licensing when it (your vehicle) was impounded

the vehicle (your vehicle) was being used illegally without the owner’s knowledge

Your vehicle may still be scrapped if you appeal and the Traffic Commissioner (the local Traffic Commissioner) rules that the impounding (impounded) was correct.

Fixed penalties

If you get a fixed penalty from a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) officer or the police, the amount you have to pay could depend on the circumstances and seriousness of the offence.

Offences you can be fined for include:

your vehicle weighing more than its maximum permitted weight

driving for too long without taking a break

your vehicle not being roadworthy (for example, if it has a bald tyre)

You can be fined between £50 and £300. You can be taken to court for more serious offences, and a magistrate will decide how much your fine is.

You can check you’ve been fined the correct amount by reading DVSA’s (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) guide to offences and fines.

Endorsements to your driving licence

For some offences, you’ll get points added to your licence (your driving licence) (endorsements) as well as a fine. For example, if your vehicle has defective brakes, you’ll be given a £100 fine and 3 points on your licence (your driving licence).

You must present your driving licence within 14 days if the offence is endorsable.

Fixed penalty notices

You must have a UK address you can be easily contacted through. Bed and breakfast, hotel, agency or solicitor addresses are not normally accepted.

If you have a satisfactory UK address, you’ll have 28 days from when you’re given a fixed penalty notice to either:

pay the fine

ask for a court hearing if you want to appeal

In Scotland, you’ll get a ‘conditional offer’ instead of a fixed penalty notice. You get 28 days from the date of issue to pay the fine. After this, you could be prosecuted if you do not pay.

If you do not have a satisfactory UK address

You’ll have to pay a ‘financial penalty deposit’. This will be either:

the total of all fixed penalty notices issued (if you want to appeal, you must do so within 28 days)

£500 per offence if you go to court - you’ll have to pay on the spot and go to court later

In both cases the maximum amount you’ll have to pay as a deposit is £1,500. You have to pay this (a ‘financial penalty deposit’) straight away - if you do not, you might not be allowed to drive your vehicle.

The money from deposits is used to pay any fixed penalties or court fines.

You’ll be refunded any money left over from your deposit after fines have been paid.

Your vehicle will be immobilised if you do not pay the deposit (your deposit).

What happens if your vehicle is immobilised

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) officers and police officers have the power to immobilise your vehicle when they stop you.

This (immobilise) might happen if you’ve committed a serious enough offence to get an ‘immediate prohibition’.

An immediate prohibition is used to prevent risks to road safety (for example an unroadworthy vehicle or a tired driver). It means you will not be able to drive your vehicle until the problem is sorted out.

When your vehicle could be immobilised

DVSA (Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) or the police can also immobilise your vehicle at the roadside if an immediate prohibition is issued for any of the following reasons:

you’ve broken the rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs

your vehicle is not roadworthy

your vehicle is overloaded

you’ve been given a fixed penalty notice but cannot or will not pay a financial penalty deposit

Not all vehicles given an immediate prohibition will be immobilised. Special circumstances will be considered, eg:

the type of load you’re carrying

if you’re carrying passengers on a public service vehicle who’d be inconvenienced if it was immobilised

How your vehicle is immobilised

DVSA (Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) and the police use a steel cable secured by a padlock to immobilise vehicles. It’s fitted around the wheels of the vehicle and a warning notice is attached to the vehicle.

The notice (a warning notice) tells you how to get the vehicle released. You have to:

satisfy DVSA (Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) that the causes of the immediate prohibitions have been dealt with

pay an £80 release charge

It’s an offence to remove the warning notice (a warning notice) or interfere with the immobilising device.

DVSA (Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) has produced a guide to vehicle immobilisation with more information, including advice on how to avoid it.


Driving licences for taxis and private hire vehicles

Type of driving licence

You need a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle.

There are different ways for you apply depending on whether you’ll operate:

outside London

inside London

There is a different process for Northern Ireland.

Outside London

You must apply to your local council for a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV).

Eligibility

To apply you must:

be able to work legally in the UK

have held a full GB or Northern Ireland driving licence - or a full EU driving licence - for at least 12 months

You must also be a ‘fit and proper person’ - which means your background and character will be checked. Your council may carry out an enhanced criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

You may also need:

a medical examination

a ‘knowledge’ test

to take a driving test

Apply

Ask your council what the requirements are in your area, including the fees they charge and how to apply.

Renew

Ask your council how to renew your licence.

Inside London

You need to apply to Transport for London (TfL) to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV).

Check with TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) to see if you’re eligible to become a taxi or PHV driver.

Apply

Contact TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) to apply for a taxi driver licence.

Contact TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) to apply for a PHV driver licence.

Renew

TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) will send you a renewal form before your current taxi or PHV driver’s licence expires.

You need to renew your licence (your current taxi or PHV driver’s licence) before it (your current taxi or PHV driver’s licence) expires or you will not be able to work as a taxi or PHV driver.


PSV (Public Service Vehicle) operator licences

Overview

You need a public service vehicle (PSV) operator’s licence to:

operate a vehicle for hire or reward (payment or payment in kind) that can carry 9 or more passengers

operate a smaller vehicle carrying passengers and charging separate fares for the journey

Read PSV437, PSV operator licensing: a guide for operators.

Types of PSV licence

There are 4 types of PSV operator licences, plus special licensing rules in London.

Standard licence - national operations only

You can only operate in Great Britain if you apply for a standard licence. Most full-time commercial operators use standard licences.

This kind of licence (Standard licence - national and international operations) lets you take passengers abroad as well as within Great Britain.

Restricted licence

You can only apply for a restricted licence for small-scale operations. They allow you to use 1 or 2 vehicles, and neither can carry more than 8 passengers.

You can carry up to 16 passengers in either vehicle if you do not use it as part of a passenger transport business, or you’re operating your vehicles as a sideline and not as your main job.

Special restricted licence

Special restricted licences are used to operate a licensed taxi on a local service. You can only apply for this licence (Special restricted licence) if you’re a licensed taxi operator. A local service is one where:

stops are no more than 24.15 kilometres (15 miles) apart

at least one stop is within the area of the district council that issued your taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV) licence

The service (a local service) must be registered with the local Traffic Commissioner.

Licensing in London

You’ll need a London Service Permit to run a private bus or coach service in London.

Taxis and private hire services in London are licensed by Transport for London (TfL).

How to apply for a PSV licence

You can apply for a PSV operator’s licence online. You’ll usually get a decision within 7 weeks.

It’s illegal to operate a vehicle before your licence has been issued.

Once you’ve got your licence it will not have an expiry date, but you’ll be asked to confirm your details every 5 years. The Traffic Commissioner’s Office will get in touch with you to check them. You’ll need to pay a continuation fee if you’ve got a special restricted (taxi) licence.

The Traffic Commissioner (The Traffic Commissioner’s) can suspend or revoke your licence if they (The Traffic Commissioner’s) suspect you’ve been breaking its terms.

You must also tell the Traffic Commissioner (The Traffic Commissioner’s) if your circumstances change.

Fees

Type of licence | Fees

Application for a standard licence | £209

Application for a restricted licence | £209

Application for a special restricted (taxi) licence | £61

Continuation fee for a special restricted (taxi) licence (payable every 5 years) | £61

Make changes to a licence | £122

Ways you can pay

Pay for your licence online, by phone or by post.

Paying online

You can pay any application or licence fees when you apply for a vehicle operator licence online.

Paying by phone

You can pay by phone by calling the DVSA helpline.

Paying by post

Send a cheque or postal order made payable to ‘DVSA’ (DVSA) to the Central Licensing Office.

Making changes to your PSV licence

You can make changes to your PSV operator’s licence (your PSV licence) once you have it (your PSV licence), for example add more vehicles to it (your PSV licence).

You can update your licence (your PSV licence) online.

You can make most changes to your licence (your PSV licence) for free. You must pay £122 if you want to:

increase the vehicle limit on your licence

upgrade your licence from standard national to standard international and increase the vehicle limit (the vehicle limit on your licence) at the same time

Changes of circumstance

You must tell the Traffic Commissioner (The Traffic Commissioner’s) within 28 days if:

there’s any change to the correspondence address of the business

there’s any change to the establishment address (standard licences only)

there’s any change in the address of your operating centres

there’s any change in the trading name of the business

any of the persons named on the licence have died - you may need a new licence

there’s been a change of partners if it (the business)’s a partnership firm - you may need a new licence

there’s been a change of transport managers

you, your transport manager, officers employees or agents have any relevant convictions

there’s been any other change that the Traffic Commissioner (The Traffic Commissioner’s) asked you to report as a condition of getting your licence

You’ll also have to tell the Traffic Commissioner (The Traffic Commissioner’s) if there’s been a change in the ‘legal entity’ of your business (the business), for example if:

your company changes from being a sole trader or partnership to a limited company

there’s been a change in your registered company number

there’s been a change of directors or change in share holding

Send details of any changes to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner’s Central Licensing Office at the DVSA.

Appealing a decision

You can appeal if your application for a PSV operator licence is refused.

You’ll need to send a written notice of appeal to the Upper Tribunal, Administrative Appeals Chamber. There is no fee.

Your notice of appeal needs to be received within one month of the Traffic Commissioner’s decision.

Guidance on making an appeal

Download detailed Tribunals Service guidance on making an appeal.

Appealing an Upper Tribunal decision

If your appeal is unsuccessful and you think that the decision (a decision) is wrong, you can appeal to the Court of Appeal (England and Wales) or the Court of Session (Scotland).

You must have permission from the Upper Tribunal (Upper Tribunal), or if the Upper Tribunal (Upper Tribunal) refuses, from the Court.

Your application for permission to appeal must be received within 1 month of the original appeal decision.

Download detailed guidance about appealing an Upper Tribunal decision.


Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles

Where to apply

To operate your vehicle as a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV) you need to get it licensed.

There are different ways for you apply depending on whether you’ll operate:

outside London

inside London

There is a different process for Northern Ireland.

Outside London

You must get your taxi or private hire vehicle inspected and licensed by your local council.

Apply

Contact your local council to apply for a vehicle licence.

Eligibility

You must get a licence for each vehicle. The vehicle must have no more than 8 passenger seats.

Inspections and insurance

The council may check your vehicle to make sure:

it (The vehicle)’s roadworthy

it (The vehicle)’s comfortable and clean

the taximeter works properly

the doors are safe and secure

You’ll also need insurance that:

covers you for hire and reward

includes you as the named driver

The council decides how often it (The council) tests vehicles but can’t test more than 3 times in a year.

You must fix any problems within 2 months of failing a test. You can lose your vehicle licence if you don’t.

Conditions

The council can attach conditions to vehicle licences. These (Conditions) might include:

the colour scheme of your vehicle

the use of roof signs

use of a taximeter

Refusals and appeals

The council can refuse your application if:

your vehicle doesn’t meet certain criteria

you don’t accept conditions it (The council) gives you

it (The council) wants to control the number of taxis in the area

When the council makes its (The council) decision it (The council) will explain your right to appeal if:

your application for a vehicle licence has been refused

the licensing authority has suspended, revoked or refused to renew a vehicle licence

You appeal to a crown court about a taxi licence decision or to a magistrates court about a private hire vehicle decision.

Inside London

Taxis and private hire vehicles (PHV) in London must be inspected and licensed by Transport for London (TfL).

Vehicle licences for London taxis

Apply

Your taxi must be inspected by TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) to get your vehicle licence.

Eligibility

You must meet the eligibility criteria set by TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) for your vehicle.

Vehicle licences for private hire vehicles

Apply

If you want to use a vehicle for private hire work, you’ll need to have it licensed by TfL. (Transport for London (TfL))

Eligibility

Your PHV must:

have no more than 8 passenger seats

not look like a licensed taxi, eg London-style ‘black cab’

only display advertising that complies with TfL (Transport for London (TfL)) guidelines

display licence discs - although exemptions are sometimes granted

Get your vehicle inspected

Your vehicle will need to be inspected by TfL. (Transport for London (TfL))


Set up an MOT test station

What you need to set up and start testing

You must meet a number of legal requirements if you want to set up an MOT test station.

Set up the test station (an MOT test station)

You need:

suitable premises and approved equipment for the vehicle classes you want to test

an authorised examiner (AE)

The AE (an authorised examiner (AE) is an individual, partnership or company authorised by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The AE (an authorised examiner (AE) is responsible for making sure that:

MOT tests are properly conducted

the test facilities and equipment are checked and well-maintained

MOT documents are correctly stored and access to electronic MOT test systems is only given to eligible users

the MOT testers are assessed correctly and complete training and assessments

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) staff have access to the premises for checks on staff and equipment

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) is informed about significant changes to the business within 7 working days

Start MOT testing

Before you can carry out MOT testing you also need:

an MOT business manager (sometimes called an ‘AE designated manager’) who is in charge of all MOT testing by your business

an MOT tester approved for the vehicle classes you want to test

The MOT business manager must have taken an approved course, for example the former 2-day DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) course or a level 3 award in MOT Test Centre Management.

Find an MOT manager qualification course and book it with the course provider.

You have to pay to take the course (an MOT manager qualification course). The price is set by the course provider.

Apply for authorised examiner status

You need an authorised examiner (AE) to set up an MOT test station. The AE can be an individual, partnership or company.

AE status does not transfer with a business. If you’re buying an existing MOT station, you need to apply for AE status in your own right.

How to apply

Send form VT01 to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The address is on the form.

Use the same form if you already have AE status and want to open a test station.

The application form (form VT01) has guidance notes explaining the information you need to include. There is no fee.

If your application is refused, DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will write to you - you can appeal the decision and ask for a hearing by writing to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) within 14 days.

When you must reapply

You must reapply for AE status if your company is reconstructed in a way that means it’s given a new company registration number.

Equipment and premises

You need to make sure that your equipment and premises are suitable for the vehicle classes you plan to test.

Equipment

You need to have a:

computer, laptop or tablet with internet connection

printer

These (Equipment) need to met the minimum IT specification.

Approved testing equipment

Different classes of vehicle need different specialist test equipment.

You must make sure you have at least the minimum level for each vehicle class you’re approved to test.

All equipment must be kept in good working order and calibrated properly.

You’ll need to use approved equipment for:

brake pedal application devices

decelerometers

diesel smoke meters

exhaust gas analysers (catalyst vehicles)

exhaust gas analysers (non-catalyst vehicles)

headlamp aim testers

plate brake testers

roller brake testers

tow bar socket testers

tyre tread depth gauges

wheel play detectors

There are 3 categories of decelerometers:

category A are approved for all classes of vehicle

category B are approved for class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles

category C are approved for class 1 and 2 vehicles

You can download the lists of approved equipment.

Premises

You need to make sure your premises are suitable and testing bay sizes are correct for the vehicle classes you’ll be testing. You can find the minimum standards in the MOT testing guide.

Approval in principle

Your premises will be given an approval in principle when you apply for authorised examiner (AE) status. This will help you avoid committing to expensive work or alterations before your premises are approved.

If you’ve already got AE status (authorised examiner (AE) status) and want to make changes to the test facilities, write to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before you make any changes. Include supporting drawings, to show that the changes will not affect the testing station’s approval.

Meeting ongoing standards

You must clearly and publicly display the MOT test fees and appeals poster (VT9A) in your station.

You should conduct regular checks to make sure your MOT testing station meets the best practice standards at all times.

Prepare for site reviews

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will carry out regular risk-based site reviews of your station (your MOT testing station) to make sure you continue to meet the standards.

This (site reviews) will involve checking your station (your MOT testing station) is well maintained and that it (your MOT testing station) offers clean and comfortable facilities, for example suitable customer waiting areas.

Learn about changes to MOT rules

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) uses ‘special notices’ to tell you about changes to the MOT scheme. Authorised examiners (AEs) receive these automatically within the online MOT testing service.

If your service is not good enough

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can take disciplinary action or stop you operating as a testing station if your service is not good enough.

If you lose AE status (authorised examiner (AE) status) for disciplinary reasons, anyone else applying for AE status at the same test station must prove they’re sufficiently independent from you.


Get a trainee driving instructor licence

Overview

You can apply for a trainee driving instructor licence after you pass the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test.

A trainee licence:

helps you get experience instructing pupils to drive so you can prepare for the ADI part 3 test (the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test)

lasts for 6 months

You can charge for lessons to cover the cost of things like your insurance and vehicle costs.

Who can apply

You can apply for a trainee licence if you:

have passed your ADI part 1 test in the last 2 years

have passed the ADI part 2 test (the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test)

have had at least 40 hours of training from a qualified ADI in providing
driving instruction (at least 10 of which were done in a car), recorded on the ADI 21T declaration form

are eligible to take the ADI part 3 test (the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test)

Being refused a trainee licence

You can appeal to the General Regulatory Chamber if you’re refused a trainee licence.

The rules and process for getting a trainee licence are different in Northern Ireland.

Options when you apply for a trainee licence

You have 2 options to choose from when you apply for a trainee licence. You must either:

be supervised for 20% of all lessons you give while you have your trainee licence

do at least 20 hours of extra training while you have your trainee licence

You can only choose one option and you cannot change to the other after you’ve made your decision.

Talk to your sponsoring approved driving instructor (ADI) or training organisation about which option is best for you.

Option 1 - supervision of lessons

In this option you have to be supervised by your sponsoring ADI for 20% of all the lessons you give.

You must keep a record of the number of hours:

you give lessons

you are supervised

The ADI 21S (approved driving instructor (ADI)) supervision record form must be signed by both you and your ADI (your sponsoring ADI). You must send it to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) when your trainee licence runs out.

You cannot currently send this (The ADI 21S (approved driving instructor (ADI)) supervision record form) by post because of coronavirus (COVID-19). Contact DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) by email instead.

Option 2 - extra training

In this option, you have to do at least 20 hours of extra training in the topics in the training programme.

After you get your training licence, you must complete the training within the next 3 months and before you book the ADI part 3 test.

At least 25% of the training must be practical in-car training.

The training must be recorded on the
instructor training declaration form.

You must send the form to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) as soon as you’ve completed your training. If you do not send the form (The ADI 21S (approved driving instructor (ADI)) supervision record form), DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can take your trainee licence away.

If you fail the ADI part 3 test or you do not book it (the ADI part 3 test) in time

If you fail the test (the ADI part 3 test), you must do 5 hours of extra training before your next attempt. You have 3 attempts to pass the test (the ADI part 3 test).

If you do not book the test (the ADI part 3 test) within 3 months of getting your licence, you must take 5 hours of extra training before you book the test (the ADI part 3 test).

Each time you do 5 hours of extra training, record it (5 hours of extra training) on a new instructor training declaration form.

If you do not send the form (a new instructor training declaration form), DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can take your trainee licence away.

Rules for using your trainee licence

You must:

be a ‘fit and proper’ person

get the required amount of supervision or extra training while your licence is still valid

Displaying your licence

You must display your trainee licence on the nearside edge of the front windscreen of your car while you give driving lessons.

Where you train

Your trainee licence shows the name and address of your training establishment. You can only give instruction from there, so you cannot work independently, such as by setting up your own school.

You must not advertise yourself as an instructor. Any advertising your training establishment does must not make it seem like you’re a fully qualified instructor.

Changing your driving school

You must apply for a new trainee licence if you leave a driving school and join a new one. There’s no fee for doing this.

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will send you a new licence showing the details of your new school. You should send your old licence to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) as soon as you get the new one.

You can still give driving lessons while you wait for your new licence (a new licence showing the details of your new school).

When trainee licences can be taken away

The ADI registrar can take your trainee licence away before it runs out if:

you break any of the rules for having a trainee licence

the licence (a trainee licence) was issued by mistake or gained by fraud

you fail 3 attempts at the ADI part 3 test

Not using your trainee licence

You should return your trainee licence to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) if you are not using it, for example because of a long period of illness.

You will not get a refund, but DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will know that you have not had full use of the licence (your trainee licence). This will be a factor in deciding whether to give you another licence in future.

Lost or stolen licence

You should tell the police straight away if your licence (your trainee licence) is lost or stolen. They will give you a crime reference number.

You’ll have to pay £3 if you lose your licence or cannot give DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) a crime reference number.

You cannot currently contact DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) by post because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

To get a replacement, email DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) with the following:

the crime reference number (a crime reference number)

your permission that DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can use your photocard driving licence photo or a previous photo they (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) have on record

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will contact you to tell you how to pay.

When your trainee licence runs out

Your trainee licence lasts for 6 months. When it runs out you must stop being paid for giving driving lessons.

Getting another licence

You can apply for another trainee licence, but you’ll need to pay the fee again.

You cannot be paid for giving driving lessons when you do not have a valid trainee licence.

You’re more likely to get another licence if you told DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) you had stopped using the first, for example because of a period of illness.

It’s unlikely that you’ll get another licence if you:

just want more time to pass the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test

did not follow the rules for using your previous trainee licence

You can appeal to the General Regulatory Chamber if you’re not given another licence.


Driving instructor suspension: your rights

Overview

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) registration can be suspended if the ADI registrar thinks you pose a significant threat to public safety.

The ADI registrar can suspend you if they (the ADI registrar)’re considering:

taking you off the ADI register

removing your trainee driving instructor licence

refusing to extend your registration or trainee licence

You cannot get paid for giving driving lessons if you’re suspended.

Claiming compensation

You can claim compensation if you’ve been suspended but are not then taken off the register (the ADI register).

There are different rules for your ADI registration in Northern Ireland.

When you can be suspended

For example, if you:

have been convicted of a sexual or violent offence

are giving dangerous instruction that’s a major risk to the safety of your pupils and other road users

Telling you if you’re suspended

You’ll get a letter from the ADI registrar to tell you that your registration (Your approved driving instructor (ADI) registration) is suspended.

This will usually be at that same time that the registrar (the ADI registrar) writes to tell you that they (the ADI registrar)’re considering taking you off the register (the ADI register).

Challenging your suspension (suspended)

You can use a judicial review to challenge the way in which the ADI registrar made the decision to suspend you.

The review (a judicial review) only looks at whether the right procedures have been followed, rather than the decision itself (the decision to suspend you). You can download the judicial review claim form and guidance notes.

You still have the right to appeal against the ADI registrar’s (the ADI registrar) decision to remove you if you end up being taken off the register (the ADI register).

Compensation if you stay on the register (the ADI register)

You can get compensation if your approved driving instructor (ADI) registration was suspended, but you were not taken off the ADI register.

This includes cases where:

you win an appeal against the decision to take you off the register (the ADI register)

the registrar (the ADI registrar) considers taking you off the register (the ADI register), but then ends the suspension (suspended) and lets you stay on the register (the ADI register)

the registrar (the ADI registrar) has not made a decision about taking you off the register (the ADI register) within 75 days

What you can claim

You can claim compensation for income and non-income losses as a result of being suspended.

You can also claim for the cost of preparing your compensation application.

Income losses

‘Income losses’ are what you’d have got from giving driving lessons during the time you were suspended.

Non-income losses

‘Non-income losses’ are other losses you:

can give a monetary value to

incurred (within reason) while you were suspended

Examples of non-income losses include:

any reasonable costs you needed to pay to prepare your compensation application

the interest on a loan you had to take out as a result of the suspension (suspended)

the value of any damage that the suspension (suspended) caused to your driving school business if you run one

How to claim compensation

Download the application form and send it, with evidence to support your claim, to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

When to claim

You must send your claim within 2 years of whichever of these dates is later:

the date your suspension (suspended) ended

the date you were told you’d won your appeal against the approved driving instructor (ADI) registrar (the ADI registrar)

You can claim outside of the 2 years (2 years) in special situations.

Who can make the claim

You, as the ADI who was suspended, must sign the declaration with the application form.

You’re only allowed to sign the declaration (the declaration with the application form) on behalf of someone in limited situations, for example where the ADI has died and you’re allowed to represent them.

Evidence to support your claim

You should send documents that prove the basis of your claim, for example showing why you’ve based your claim for income losses on a certain hourly rate.

You’ll need to consider which documents will help DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) decide that you’ve sent a valid claim, for example bank statements, payslips or a loan agreement.

Working out your losses

You’ll need to work out your income and non-income losses to send your claim.

Work out your income losses (your income and non-income losses)

You’ll need to work how much you’d have reasonably expected to earn during the time you were suspended.

This should be based on your income for a period that you can directly compare with, for example the same period the previous year.

You should base your claim on the period that best compares to the time you were suspended if you cannot directly compare with a previous year.

If your claim is for a different amount to what’s shown in the previous period, you should explain why, for example a major change in how many pupils you taught in the weeks just before you were suspended.

Work out your non-income losses

Your claim will need to make clear:

how the non-income losses (your non-income losses) were incurred

why they (your non-income losses) are reasonable costs

how you have worked them (your non-income losses) out

You’ll need to send documents that clearly support your claim.

You can claim for the value of any damage that the suspension caused to your driving school business if you run one.

You can claim for the interest paid on a loan that you took out because your income stopped from being suspended.

Help working out your non-income losses

You can claim for the cost of preparing your compensation application. This can include the cost of getting expert help to work out how much your non-income losses are.

You’ll need to prove that the cost (the cost of preparing your compensation application) was reasonable, for example by showing that you did not pay a higher fee than usually applies.

The decision on your compensation claim (your claim)

You’ll get a letter from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) within 28 days to either:

tell you you’re being paid the amount you claimed for (the time you were suspended) or a different amount

ask for more information to prove your claim

ask permission to go to a third party to prove your claim

tell you the claim (your claim) has not been allowed

When you’ll get your payment

You’ll get the payment (your payment) within 45 days of DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) telling you that you’re going to be paid.

You must give any new information you find that’s relevant to your claim within 6 years of getting your compensation. You must do this within 1 month of finding it.

Interim payments

You can get an interim payment:

if you’re in special situations, for example significant financial hardship

for part of the claim (your claim) if it can be easily and quickly checked

If more information is needed

You must send any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs within 28 days. This can be extended in special situations.

You must sign a statement to say the information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs) is true to the best of your knowledge when you send it (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs).

Not giving more information

You should tell DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) in writing if you cannot give the extra information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs), and the reason why. DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will do whatever it (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can to process the claim (your claim) if this happens.

Your claim can be delayed if the extra information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs) is not available, or you do not give it.

The part of the claim (your claim) that needs the extra information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs) can be rejected.

After you’re asked for more information

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will write to you within 28 days of either:

getting the extra information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs)

the deadline for giving the extra information (any extra information DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) needs) running out

The letter from DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will either:

tell you you’re being paid the amount you claimed for or a different amount

ask for more information to prove your claim

Appeal against the decision

You can appeal to the transport tribunal if you disagree with:

the decision that you cannot get compensation

the amount of compensation you’re going to get

You must appeal within 28 days of DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) telling you its (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) decision (the decision).

Decisions the tribunal (the transport tribunal) can make

The tribunal (the transport tribunal) can:

refuse your appeal

allow your appeal

give its (your appeal) own decision on how much you get

refer your case back to DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) to reconsider

When the amount of compensation can change

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) can tell you that that it (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA))’s considering changing how much compensation you got. It (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can do this for up to 6 years after your original application.

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can do this (changing) when:

it (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) finds new information

it (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) believes that the information you gave was wrong

it looks like the original amount you got (the amount you claimed for) was given by mistake

If you think the amount (the amount you claimed for) was correct

You have 28 days to tell DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) if you think that the compensation that you were given (the amount you claimed for) was correct. This time limit may be extended in special situations.

If the amount (the amount you claimed for) changes

You’ll need to repay the difference if the new amount is less than you originally got. DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will tell you how to do this.

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will pay you the difference if the new amount is more than you originally got. You’ll get it (the difference) within 45 days.

If you disagree with the new amount

You can appeal to the transport tribunal if you disagree with DVSA’s (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) decision on the new amount.

You should make your appeal (appeal) within 28 days of being told the new amount.

Decisions the tribunal (the transport tribunal) can make

The tribunal (the transport tribunal) can:

refuse your appeal

allow your appeal

give its (your appeal) own decision on how much you get


Motorcycle trainer standards check

When you have to take the standards check

The motorcycle trainer standards check (the standards check) assesses your ability to teach pupils on a compulsory basic training (CBT) course.

You should take at least one standards check during each 4-year period that you’re registered as a motorcycle trainer. You do not have to pay for the check (the standards check).

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will contact the training body where you work to arrange a date and time for your standards check (the standards check).

You can be removed from the motorcycle trainer register if you keep missing your standards check (the standards check).

There are different rules for taking a standards check in Northern Ireland.

What happens at the standards check

The check (the standards check) will take place at your motorcycle training body.

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you train a pupil (or a group of pupils) in a normal compulsory basic training (CBT) lesson.

The lesson (a normal compulsory basic training (CBT) lesson) must include practical riding (elements C or E of the CBT syllabus). It (a normal compulsory basic training (CBT) lesson) can also include theoretical training and a pre-ride briefing (elements A, B or D).

What you need to bring to the check

For the check (the standards check) you need:

your motorcycle registration certificate

a motorcycle that you can ride on roads, for example it must have up to date vehicle tax and an MOT certificate

at least one pupil

Your mentor and training body authority holder cannot take part in the lesson (a normal compulsory basic training (CBT) lesson).

What you’ll be marked on

The examiner (A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner) will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

They (A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner)’ll follow guidance for carrying out the check (the standards check) and mark you on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning skills

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the motorcycle trainer standards check form, which the examiner (A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner) will fill in during your check (the standards check).

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to give a total score.

Your standards check result

After you give the lesson, the examiner (A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner) will discuss your performance and give you the result (Your standards check result). This will take about 15 minutes.

You can invite your mentor or the training body authority holder to join you during this discussion (discuss).

You’ll be sent your completed standards check form by email.

Total score | Result (Your standards check result) | Description

0 to 30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory

31 to 42 | Pass | Your performance is satisfactory

43 to 51 | Pass | You’ve shown a high standard of instruction

Faults which mean you automatically fail

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner (A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner) stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

you did not follow the compulsory basic training (CBT) syllabus

you incorrectly assessed a pupil’s road riding, for example you gave them a CBT completion certificate but they should not have passed

If you fail the standards check

You have up to 2 more attempts to pass the standards check.

If you fail 3 times:

you’ll be removed from the motorcycle trainer register

you’ll have to retake the motorcycle trainer qualifying tests to join the register (the motorcycle trainer register) again