Vehicle insurance

Overview

You must have motor insurance to drive your vehicle on UK roads.

Third party insurance is the legal minimum. This means you’re covered if you have an accident causing damage or injury to any other person, vehicle, animal or property. It does not cover any other costs like repair to your own vehicle.

You may want to use an insurance broker.

If you’re in an accident

If you have an accident causing damage or injury you must give the following to anyone with ‘reasonable grounds for requiring them’, for example an insurance company:

your name and address

the vehicle registration number

You also need to give the owner’s name and address if the vehicle is not yours.

You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if you do not give your details at the time of the accident.

You must also report the accident to your insurance company, even if you’re not planning to make a claim.

Accidents with uninsured motorists

You should tell the police if you have an accident with someone who’s not insured.

Your insurance company will also be able to give you more advice.

You might also be able to get compensation if you’re the victim of an uninsured or hit and run driver.

Driving abroad

If you’re driving in most European countries

All UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in:

the EU (including Ireland)

Andorra

Iceland

Liechtenstein

Norway

Serbia

Switzerland

Check with your insurer if your policy has extra cover for things like theft or damage to your car abroad.

You also need to carry a physical copy of a ‘green card’ to drive your vehicle in these countries (most European countries).

If you’re driving in the rest of the world

You may need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover required by the country you’re driving in.

You may also need additional insurance for your vehicle, trailer or caravan. Check the travel advice for the country you’re going to.

Getting a green card from your insurer

A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad.

Contact your insurer to get one for your vehicle. They’ll either:

post you a green card - allow up to 6 weeks

tell you how to download a green card to print yourself

You will need to carry extra green cards if:

you’re towing a trailer or caravan (one for the towing vehicle and one for the trailer or caravan)

you have 2 insurance policies covering your trip (one card for each policy)

you have multi-car or fleet insurance (one for each vehicle on the policy)

Showing your green card when driving abroad

You must show your green card if you’re involved in an accident.

You may have to show your green card:

at the border when moving between countries

if you’re stopped by the police

Uninsured vehicles

Rules in England, Wales and Scotland

You must have motor insurance for your vehicle if you use it on roads and in public places.

You do not need to insure your vehicle if it is kept off the road and declared as off the road (SORN). This rule is called ‘continuous insurance enforcement’.

If not, you could:

get a fixed penalty of £100

have your vehicle wheel-clamped, impounded or destroyed

face a court prosecution, with a possible maximum fine of £1,000

It does not matter who is driving the car - if you’re the registered keeper, you could get penalised.

You will also still have to pay for your insurance on top of any fines received.

You can check if your vehicle is insured on askMID.

Motor traders - exceptions

If a vehicle is between registered keepers or registered as ‘in trade’ with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), it is excluded from continuous insurance enforcement.

Vehicles you keep for your own use are not excluded.

Rules in Northern Ireland

There are different rules for vehicle insurance in Northern Ireland.

Driving without insurance

It’s illegal to drive a vehicle on a road or in a public place without at least 3rd party insurance.

Even if the vehicle itself (a vehicle) is insured, if you’re not correctly insured to drive it (a vehicle) you could get penalised.

Penalties for uninsured drivers:

The police could give you a fixed penalty of £300 and 6 penalty points if you’re caught driving a vehicle you’re not insured to drive.

If the case goes to court you could get:

an unlimited fine

disqualified from driving

The police also have the power to seize, and in some cases, destroy the vehicle that’s being driven uninsured (a vehicle you’re not insured to drive).


Theory test: cars

Booking your test

You must have a provisional driving licence to book your theory test.

There are 2 parts to the test (your theory test):

multiple-choice questions

hazard perception - a video test about spotting hazards on the road

You book and take them as a single test. You must pass both parts to pass the test (your theory test).

When you can take the theory test (your theory test)

You can take the theory test (your theory test) from your 17th birthday onwards.

You can take it (your theory test) from your 16th birthday if you get, or have applied for, the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Who needs to take the theory test (your theory test)

You usually need to take the theory test (your theory test) before you can get your full car driving licence.

You do not need to take the car theory test if you:

want to upgrade an automatic car licence to a manual one

have a category B1 driving licence (3 or 4-wheeled light vehicles) from before 1 February 2001

If you have a moped or motorcycle licence

You must pass a car theory test before taking the car driving test (the car theory test).

If your licence is not from Great Britain

Find out if you can drive in Great Britain (GB) (Great Britain) with your non-GB licence without taking a theory and driving test.

Change or check your test details

You can change the date of your theory test after you’ve booked it. This includes if you cannot or do not want to attend because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

You can check your appointment details if you’ve lost your booking confirmation.

Rebook your test (your theory test)

Rebook your theory test if you failed your test (your theory test) and want to resit it (your theory test). You have to choose a date at least 3 working days away.

Theory test revision and practice

You can use books and software to revise for the theory test (your theory test) and take practice tests.

Multiple-choice questions

The multiple-choice questions in the theory test (your theory test) are based on 3 books:

The Highway Code

Know your traffic signs

Driving - the essential skills

Study these (3 books) to learn the rules and skills you’ll be tested on.

You can buy them (3 books) from most high street and online book shops.

Take a practice test

Take a practice theory test to check how much you’ve learnt.

The questions are not used in the real test (your theory test), but they are based on the same topics as the test (your theory test).

Hazard perception test

To prepare for this test (Hazard perception test) you can use the official guide to hazard perception.

You can buy the guide (the official guide to hazard perception) in these formats:

online for your PC or Mac

app for Apple phones and tablets

app for Android phones and tablets

You can also buy it (the official guide to hazard perception) as an interactive DVD from most high street and online book shops.

Translations into foreign languages

Some official books and software are translated into other languages by approved organisations.

However, you can only take the test (Hazard perception test) in English, Welsh or British Sign Language.

What to take to your test

You must take your UK photocard driving licence to your test.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland, bring the photocard and paper counterpart licence.

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

Wearing a face covering at your test

You must wear a face covering at your test. If you do not wear one, you must have a good reason, for example:

you have a physical or mental illness, impairment or disability

wearing it (a physical or mental illness, impairment or disability) would cause you severe distress

Wearing glasses does not count as a good reason.

You need to say why you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. If you do not, and you come to your test without a face covering, your test will be cancelled.

If you’ve already booked your test and did not say that you cannot wear a face covering, contact DVSA.

When you must not go to your test

You must not go to your test if:

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

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

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

Change your theory test appointment for free if you need to self-isolate on the day of your test.

Lost your licence

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

Rearrange your test if you do not get the new licence (a replacement driving licence) in enough time.

If you have a paper licence

Bring a valid passport as well as your paper licence (a paper licence).

If you do not have a passport, you need to get a photocard licence.

Personal belongings

You will not have access to your personal items in the test room. This (Personal belongings) includes things like:

bags

earphones

mobile phones

watches

You’ll usually have to store any personal items in a locker.

If your test centre does not have lockers, you must:

turn off your phone before you enter the test centre (your test centre)

put your belongings in a clear plastic box that will be given to you - this must be stored under your desk during the test (your test)

The test centre staff will check if you have anything with you that could be used to cheat. Your test will not go ahead if you do not let them check.

It’s illegal to cheat at the theory test. You can be sent to prison and banned from driving.

Multiple-choice questions

You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions.

Before the test (your test) starts you’ll get:

instructions on how the test (your test) works

the chance to do some practice questions to get used to the screens

How the test (your test) works

A question and several possible answers appear on a screen. You have to select the right answer.

Three of the questions (50 multiple-choice questions) are about a short video. It will show a normal driving situation, such as:

driving through a town centre

driving on a country road

The video (a short video) is silent. You can watch it (a short video) as many times as you like during the test (your test).

Leaving a question

You can ‘flag’ questions that you want to come back to later.

Changing your answers

You can go back to any question to review and change your answer at any point.

When you’ve finished

You can finish the multiple-choice questions part when you’ve answered all of the questions. You do not have to use the full 57 minutes (57 minutes).

You can have a break of up to 3 minutes before the hazard perception test starts.

Hazard perception test (the hazard perception test)

Before you start the hazard perception test, you’ll be shown a video about how it (the hazard perception test) works.

You’ll then watch 14 video clips. The clips:

feature everyday road scenes

contain at least one ‘developing hazard’ - but one of the clips (14 video clips) features 2 developing hazards

You get points for spotting the developing hazards (2 developing hazards) as soon as they (2 developing hazards) start to happen.

What a ‘developing hazard’ is

A developing hazard is something that would cause you to take action, like changing speed or direction.

How the scoring works

You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard.

To get a high score, click the mouse as soon as you see the hazard starting to develop.

You do not lose points if you click and get it (the hazard) wrong. However, you will not score anything if you click continuously or in a pattern.

You only get one attempt at each clip. You cannot review or change your responses.

Pass mark and test result

You’ll get the result (test result) at the test centre after taking the theory test (your test). You must pass both parts to pass the test (your test).

| Pass mark | Points available

Multiple-choice questions | 43 | 50

Hazard perception | 44 | 75

If you pass

You’ll get a letter with a pass certificate number at the test centre. You need this when you book and take your driving test.

Your pass certificate number (a pass certificate number) lasts for 2 years. You must pass your driving test in that time, otherwise you’ll have to pass the theory test (your test) again.

If you fail

You’ll get a letter at the test centre. It (a letter with a pass certificate number)’ll tell you which parts you did not score enough points on so you know what to practise.

You must book and take the full test (your test) again, even if you passed one part this time.

You have to wait at least 3 working days before taking your test again.

If you have a reading difficulty, disability or health condition

When you book your theory test you should say if you have a:

reading difficulty

disability

health condition

You have reading difficulties

You can ask to hear the test (your theory test) through headphones when you book your test (your theory test). You can hear it (your theory test) in English or Welsh.

You can listen to the questions and possible answers as many times as you need to.

Other types of support

You can get other support during your theory test if you send proof that you have reading difficulties.

This (proof that you have reading difficulties) can be an email, letter or report from:

a teacher or other educational professional

a doctor or medical professional

an occupational therapist

an online dyslexia screening product assured by the British Dyslexia Association

You can get:

extra time to take the test (your theory test)

someone to read what’s on the screen and record your answers

someone to reword the questions for you

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will select the best type of support for you.

If DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) agrees that you need extra support, they (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will send you an email with:

a reference number (you will need this when you book your test)

instructions on how to book your test

Extra time to take the test (your theory test)

You can ask for more time to do the multiple choice questions part of the theory test (your theory test).

Reading what’s on the screen and recording your answers

A member of staff at the test centre can read out the instructions and questions on the screen.

They (A member of staff at the test centre) can also record your answers to the multiple-choice questions.

This can be done by either:

listening to the member of staff through headphones while they’re in another room - they’ll be able to see what’s on your screen

the member of staff sitting near you in the test room

Rewording the questions for you

You can ask for a member of staff to reword the theory test questions to make them easier for you to understand.

The person cannot change the technical language that you need to know. But they can change the order of the sentence and other non-technical words and phrases.

You still need to answer each question yourself.

You’re deaf or have a hearing impairment

You can take the theory test in British Sign Language (BSL) if you’re deaf or have a hearing impairment.

A BSL (British Sign Language (BSL)) video appears on the screen next to the questions and answers.

Take a BSL (British Sign Language (BSL)) interpreter

You can have a BSL (British Sign Language (BSL)) interpreter with you during the test. Contact DVSA to arrange this. You will not be charged an extra fee.

Hearing loop and lip speakers

You can arrange to have a lip speaker with you at the theory test centre or use a listening aid (hearing loop).

To use either service you’ll need to contact DVSA before your test.

Other disabilities or health conditions

Contact DVSA to discuss any other disability or health condition before you book your test.


Theory test: motorcycles and mopeds

Booking your test

You need to have a provisional motorcycle licence to book your theory test (your test).

There are 2 parts to the test (your test):

multiple-choice questions

hazard perception - a video test about spotting hazards on the road

You book and take them as a single test. You have to pass both parts to pass the test (your test).

When you can take the theory test (your test)

You can take the theory test (your test) from your:

16th birthday onwards if you’re learning to ride a moped (no more than 50cc)

17th birthday onwards if you’re learning to ride a motorcycle

You can take the theory test (your test) before or after you’ve taken compulsory basic training (CBT).

Who needs to take the theory test (your test)

You usually need to have passed a motorcycle theory test before you take the motorcycle test.

Find out which motorcycles you can ride and which tests you need to take.

You do not need to take the theory test (your test) if you passed a moped test after 1 July 1996 and want to either:

take the motorcycle test on a category A1 small motorcycle

upgrade your motorcycle licence under the ‘progressive access’ (also known as ‘staged access’) rules

If you have a car licence

You have to pass a motorcycle theory test before taking the motorcycle test.

If your licence is not from Great Britain

Find out if you can drive in Great Britain (GB) (Great Britain) with your non-GB licence without taking a theory and driving test.

Change or check your test details

You can change the date of your theory test after you’ve booked it. This includes if you cannot or do not want to attend because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

You can check your appointment details if you’ve lost your booking confirmation.

Rebook your test

Rebook your theory test (your test) if you failed your test and want to resit it (your test). You have to choose a date at least 3 working days away.

Theory test revision and practice

You can use books and software to revise for the theory test (your test) and take practice tests.

Multiple-choice questions

The questions in the theory test (your test) are based on 3 books:

The Highway Code

Know your traffic signs

Riding - the essential skills

Study these (3 books) to learn the rules and skills you’ll be tested on.

You can buy them (3 books) from most high street and online book shops.

Take a practice test

Take a practice theory test to check how much you’ve learnt.

The practice questions are not used in the real test (your test), but they’re based on the same topics as the test (your test).

Hazard perception part

Buy the official guide to hazard perception for your PC or Mac to learn hazard perception skills and then test them.

You can buy it (Hazard perception part) from most high street and online book shops.

What to take to your test

You must take your UK photocard driving licence to your test.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland, bring the photocard and paper counterpart licence.

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

Wearing a face covering at your test

You must wear a face covering at your test. If you do not wear one, you must have a good reason, for example:

you have a physical or mental illness, impairment or disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

Wearing glasses does not count as a good reason.

You need to say why you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. If you do not, and you come to your test without a face covering, your test will be cancelled.

If you’ve already booked your test and did not say that you cannot wear a face covering, contact DVSA.

When you must not go to your test

You must not go to your test if:

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

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

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

Change your theory test appointment for free if you need to self-isolate on the day of your test.

If you have a paper licence

Bring a valid passport as well as your paper licence.

If you do not have a passport, you need to get a photocard licence.

Personal belongings

You will not have access to your personal items in the test room. This includes things like:

bags

earphones

mobile phones

watches

You’ll usually have to store any personal items in a locker.

If your test centre does not have lockers, you must:

turn off your phone before you enter the test centre (your test centre)

put your belongings in a clear plastic box that will be given to you - this must be stored under your desk during the test (your test)

The test centre staff will check if you have anything with you that could be used to cheat. Your test will not go ahead if you do not let them check.

It’s illegal to cheat at the theory test. You can be sent to prison and banned from driving.

Multiple-choice questions

You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions.

Before the test (your test) starts you’ll get:

instructions on how the test (your test) works

the chance to do some practice questions to get used to the screens

How the test (your test) works

A question and several possible answers appear on a screen. You have to select the right answer.

Some questions are given as a case study. The case study will:

show a short story that 5 questions will be based on

be about a real life situation you could come across when driving

Leaving a question

You can ‘flag’ questions that you want to come back to later.

Changing your answers

You can go back to any question to review and change your answer at any point.

When you’ve finished

You can finish the multiple-choice questions part when you’ve answered all of the questions. You do not have to use the full 57 minutes (57 minutes).

You can have a break of up to 3 minutes before the hazard perception test starts.

Hazard perception test (the hazard perception test)

Before you start the hazard perception test, you’ll be shown a video about how it (the hazard perception test) works.

You’ll then watch 14 video clips. The clips:

feature everyday road scenes

contain at least one ‘developing hazard’ - but one of the clips (14 video clips) features 2 developing hazards

You get points for spotting the developing hazards (2 developing hazards) as soon as they (2 developing hazards) start to happen.

What a ‘developing hazard’ is

A developing hazard is something that would cause you to take action, like changing speed or direction.

How the scoring works

You can score up to 5 points for each developing hazard.

To get a high score, click the mouse as soon as you see the hazard starting to develop.

You do not lose points if you click and get it (the hazard) wrong. However, you will not score anything if you click continuously or in a pattern.

You only get one attempt at each clip. You cannot review or change your responses.

Pass mark and test result

You get the result (test result) at the test centre after taking the theory test. You need to pass both parts to pass the test (your test).

Test part | Pass mark | Points available

Multiple-choice questions | 43 | 50

Hazard perception | 44 | 75

If you pass

You’ll get a letter with a pass certificate number at the test centre. You need this when you book and take your motorcycle test.

Your pass certificate number (a pass certificate number) lasts for 2 years. You need to pass both modules of the motorcycle test (your motorcycle test) in that time, otherwise you’ll have to pass the theory test again.

If you fail

You’ll get a letter at the test centre. It (a letter with a pass certificate number)’ll tell you which parts you did not score enough points on so you know what to practise.

You have to book and take the full test again, even if you passed one part this time.

You have to wait at least 3 working days before taking your test (your motorcycle test) again.

If you have a reading difficulty, disability or health condition

When you book your theory test you should say if you have a:

reading difficulty

disability

health condition

You have reading difficulties

You can ask to hear the test (your test) through headphones when you book your test (your theory test). You can  hear it (your test) in English or Welsh.

You can listen to the questions and possible answers as many times as you need to.

Other types of support

You can get other support during your theory test if you send proof that you have reading difficulties.

This (proof that you have reading difficulties) can be an email, letter or report from:

a teacher or other educational professional

a doctor or medical professional

an occupational therapist

an online dyslexia screening product assured by the British Dyslexia Association

You can get:

extra time to take the test (your theory test)

someone to read what’s on the screen and record your answers

someone to reword the questions for you

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will select the best type of support for you.

If DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) agrees that you need extra support, they (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) will send you an email with:

a reference number (you will need this when you book your test)

instructions on how to book your test

Extra time to take the test (your theory test)

You can ask for more time to do the multiple choice questions part of the theory test (your test).

Reading what’s on the screen and recording your answers

A member of staff at the test centre can read out the instructions and questions on the screen.

They (A member of staff at the test centre) can also record your answers to the multiple-choice questions.

This can be done by either:

listening to the member of staff (A member of staff at the test centre) through headphones while they (A member of staff at the test centre)’re in another room - they (A member of staff at the test centre)’ll be able to see what’s on your screen

the member of staff sitting near you in the test room

Rewording the questions for you

You can ask for a member of staff to reword the theory test questions (the questions) to make them (the questions) easier for you to understand.

The person (a member of staff) cannot change the technical language that you need to know. But they (a member of staff) can change the order of the sentence and other non-technical words and phrases.

You still need to answer each question yourself.

You’re deaf or have a hearing impairment

You can take the theory test (your test) in British Sign Language (BSL) if you’re deaf or have a hearing impairment.

A BSL video appears on the screen next to the questions and answers.

Take a BSL interpreter

You can have a BSL interpreter with you during the test. Contact DVSA to arrange this. You will not be charged an extra fee.

Hearing loop and lip speakers

You can arrange to have a lip speaker with you at the theory test centre or use a listening aid (hearing loop).

To use either service you’ll need to contact DVSA before your test.

Other disabilities or health conditions

Contact DVSA to discuss any other disability or health condition before you book your test.


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))