Simpler registration policies delight classic car owners

Classic car enthusiasts are set to benefit from sweeping changes to DVLA registration rules, designed to make restoring, modifying and even electrifying vehicles simpler and more straightforward.

From Tuesday 26 August, the DVLA will introduce updated policies covering repaired, restored and modified vehicles. The changes follow a major consultation with over 1,350 responses from owners, motoring clubs and the historic vehicle industry.

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What does this mean for you?

If you own a classic car, here’s what the updates mean:

• You won’t need to notify DVLA for like-for-like repairs: If your car looks the same as it did when it rolled off the production line and the logbook (V5C) remains unchanged, you won’t need to jump through extra hoops.
• Modified cars can keep their original identity: Cars that undergo structural changes can retain their original registration and VIN, provided owners notify DVLA.
• Electrified classics keep their number plates: Owners converting classics to electric power can also keep their car’s original identity, as long as changes are reported.

For many of you in the classic car community, this means less red tape and more time enjoying your car on the road.

“We know how much love, time and effort goes into keeping classic cars – and we’re right behind the community,” said minister for the future of roads, Lilian Greenwood. “These changes are about cutting red tape and making life easier for enthusiasts, whether you’re restoring a vintage gem or converting it to electric.”

DVLA chief executive Tim Moss echoed the sentiment, saying that these updated policies support historic vehicle keepers and that “enthusiasts can now focus on what they love most: preserving and enjoying these remarkable vehicles”.

For classic car owners, this is a clear sign that the DVLA is backing the hobby rather than holding it back. With simpler rules and fewer hoops to jump through, it’s great news for anyone keeping Britain’s motoring history on the road.

The changes will take effect from Tuesday 26 August 2025.

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