Importing a car to the UK in 2025: the complete guide

Customs and taxes when importing a car to the UK

Every vehicle entering the UK must go through HMRC customs clearance. The process is handled through the NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) system, which records the car’s arrival and calculates any tax due. Here’s what you need to know:

• Import duty is usually 10% of the car’s customs value (purchase price plus shipping costs) if the vehicle originates outside the EU or doesn’t meet trade agreement rules of origin.

• VAT at 20% is payable on the total value of the car (price, shipping, and duty). This applies to almost all used cars imported to the UK, unless they qualify under special relief (e.g. personal import when relocating).

• Historic vehicles over 30 years old may qualify for a reduced VAT rate of 5% and no import duty, provided they meet HMRC’s definition of “classic.”

Without NOVA clearance and proof of payment, the DVLA will not register your vehicle. This step is unavoidable, so budget carefully—taxes can turn a cheap overseas car into an expensive one once landed in the UK.

Certificate of Conformity (COC) and DVLA approval

Once customs are cleared, the next hurdle is proving that your car complies with UK standards. The Certificate of Conformity (COC) is the key document here. Issued by the manufacturer, it confirms that the vehicle meets EU type-approval rules. Since Brexit, the UK still accepts EU COCs for most cars, but they must align with UK requirements when you register through the DVLA.

• If you have a COC: You can usually apply for UK registration directly, with only minor checks required.

• If you don’t have a COC: You’ll need to apply for an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test, where the DVLA inspects the car to confirm compliance. This is more costly and time-consuming, and it’s mandatory for many imports from Japan, the US, and cars with modifications.

In short, having the correct COC makes the DVLA process dramatically easier. Without it, you face extra testing, paperwork, and costs. This is why many importers order a replacement COC early, before the car even arrives in the UK.

MOT and technical inspection requirements

Before the DVLA will register your imported car, it must be roadworthy under UK law. For most vehicles, that means passing an MOT test. Even if the car has a valid certificate from abroad (like TÜV in Germany or Contrôle Technique in France), it won’t be accepted in the UK. The MOT ensures the car meets local safety and emissions standards.

Special cases include:

• New vehicles under 3 years old – exempt from MOT until they reach 3 years.

• Classic cars over 40 years old – exempt from annual MOT testing, but still must be roadworthy.

• Right-hand drive vs. left-hand drive – both are allowed in the UK. However, imported LHD cars must have headlights adjusted to dip left and a speedometer that displays mph.

The MOT is more than a formality—it’s often where hidden issues surface, especially with Japanese imports or cars unused for long periods. Budget for repairs here, because a failed MOT means no registration.

Insurance and DVLA registration

After customs clearance, obtaining a COC or IVA, and passing the MOT, the final step is registering your imported car with the DVLA. This is done by submitting a V55/5 form (for used imports) or a V55/4 form (for new imports). Alongside the form, you’ll need:

1. Your NOVA reference number proving taxes are cleared.

2. The Certificate of Conformity (COC) or IVA certificate.

3. The MOT certificate (if required).

4. Proof of insurance — you must insure the car before registration, even if it’s not yet on UK plates. Many insurers issue cover notes based on the VIN number.

5. The foreign registration document (e.g. the EU logbook).

6. Proof of identity and UK address.

7. Payment for the registration fee (£55) and the road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty).

Once approved, the DVLA issues a V5C logbook and UK number plates. The turnaround is usually 2–6 weeks, though it can take longer if additional checks are needed. Until then, the car cannot legally be driven on UK roads unless you’re using temporary trade plates.

Importing a Car to the UK in 2025: Updated Checklist

1. Notify HMRC via NOVA

All imported vehicles must be declared to HM Revenue & Customs within 14 days of arrival using the NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) system. HMRC will calculate and confirm what you owe in import duty (typically 10%) and VAT (20%). Until NOVA clearance is complete, the DVLA will not register your car.

2. Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC)

For EU-manufactured cars, a COC shows the vehicle meets EU (and accepted UK) safety and emissions standards. If the car doesn’t come with one, you can order a replacement directly from the manufacturer or through a specialist provider like 321COC. This document makes DVLA registration much smoother.

3. Apply for Vehicle Approval (if needed)

• Cars without a valid COC, or non-EU imports (Japan, US, etc.), require Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) testing.

• Some kit cars, modified vehicles, or unique imports may fall under Single Vehicle Approval (SVA).
  These tests confirm compliance with UK safety and environmental regulations before DVLA will issue plates.

4. Make Vehicle Modifications (if required)

Imported vehicles often need technical adjustments to meet UK rules, including:

• Headlights must dip left for UK roads.

• Speedometer must display miles per hour (mph).

• Rear fog light positioning may need adjustment.

5. Arrange UK Insurance

The car must be insured on a valid UK policy before registration. Most insurers will cover the car based on its VIN number until you have a UK plate.

6. Prepare All Required Documents

When registering with the DVLA, you’ll need:

1. Completed V55/5 form (for used imports) or V55/4 form (for new imports).

2. Proof of identity and UK address.

3. Certificate of Conformity (COC) or IVA certificate.

4. NOVA confirmation of customs duty and VAT clearance.

5. MOT certificate (if the car is over 3 years old).

6. UK insurance certificate.

7. Registration fee (£55) and Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax).

8. Submit Application to DVLA
   Post your full application and documents to the DVLA. Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks, though delays are possible if additional checks are required.

9. Receive V5C Logbook and Plates
   Once approved, you’ll be issued a V5C (logbook). With the registration number confirmed, you can have UK plates made by an approved supplier and affix them to the car. At this point, your imported vehicle is fully legal on UK roads.

Conclusion: Importing a Car to the UK Made Simple

Importing a car to the UK may seem like a maze of customs forms, tax bills, and DVLA paperwork, but once broken down, the process is straightforward. The most important steps are declaring your vehicle to HMRC via NOVA, securing a Certificate of Conformity or IVA approval, and ensuring the car meets UK road standards. From there, it’s a matter of gathering documents, insuring the vehicle, and submitting your application to the DVLA.

Yes, there are costs—import duty, VAT, modifications, and fees—but many drivers still find importing worthwhile for the unique models, better prices, or personal vehicles they don’t want to leave behind. The key to success is preparation: line up your COC early, keep every document in order, and allow realistic time for DVLA processing.

Why the Certificate of Conformity (COC) is Essential

The COC simplifies the UK registration process for imported vehicles by verifying that the car complies with EU regulations. It provides technical details about the vehicle, including emissions and safety standards, making it easier for the DVLA to process your application. Without a COC, you may face delays and additional costs for inspections or alternative approvals.

Visit 321COC to order your COC online and streamline your vehicle registration process in the UK!