Registering Your EU Import in the UK

Bringing a Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicle into the UK requires navigating specific HMRC and DVLA protocols. Following Brexit, the rules regarding Rules of Origin and Vehicle Approval have become the two most important factors in your timeline and budget.

Step 1: Notify HMRC (NOVA)

You must inform HMRC via the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) system within 14 days of the car arriving in the UK. This is the first step to link your VIN to the UK tax system.

Step 2: Pay VAT and Customs Duty

Rules of Origin: If the vehicle was built outside of the EU (e.g., Japan, USA), a 10% Customs Duty applies. Cars built within the EU usually qualify for 0% duty.

VAT (20%) is also applicable if the car is considered "New" (under 6 months old or under 6,000km).

Step 3: VCA Mutual Recognition (The 10-Year Rule)

LHD vehicles imported from the EU must prove they meet UK road standards. This is managed through the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

Is your car under 10 years old?
If yes, you must apply for a Mutual Recognition Certificate. You will need your Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and evidence that the car has been modified for the UK (MPH speedometer and correct fog light position).

Is your car over 10 years old?
Vehicles over 10 years old are exempt from VCA approval. You can proceed directly to an MOT and DVLA registration based on the car's age.

Step 4: MOT and Modifications

Regardless of age, the car must pass an MOT if it is over 3 years old. For LHD cars, we ensure the headlights are adjusted and the speedometer is compliant before the test.

Step 5: DVLA Registration

Finally, we submit the V55/5 form to the DVLA. You will need your NOVA reference, VCA certificate (if under 10 years old), original foreign logbook, and UK insurance.

Quick Summary of Fees:

DVLA Registration Fee	£55.00
VCA Certificate Fee	£100.00 (Only for cars < 10 years old)
Customs Duty	10% (Only for non-EU built cars)
MOT Test	Approx. £54.85

Full Registration Support

We handle everything: NOVA, Duty calculations, VCA certification, and final DVLA plates. Let us take the stress out of your import.

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