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Registering a Reconstructed Classic Car

All reconstructed classic vehicles must meet road vehicles regulations if they get driven on the roads. Thus, regulations governing the construction, equipment, and maintenance also apply to reconstructed classics.

REGISTER RECONSTRUCTED CLASSICS: Follow the instructions and procedures set out for new vehicle registrations.

To register a classic vehicle that has had reconstruction you will also need to add these to your application:

  • DVLA ‘Built up vehicle inspection report‘ using form V627/1.
  • A written report endorsed by one of the vehicle owners’ clubs.
  • Documentary evidence of vehicle type approval (where necessary).
  • The official purchase receipts for any vehicle parts used in the classic reconstruction.

DVLA Age Related Registration Number

DVLA cannot always recognise a vehicle as a reconstructed classic. But they will if it meets certain criteria which includes being:

  • Built from genuine period components from more than one vehicle. The mechanical and body parts must all be over 25 years old and of the same specification as the original.
  • A true reflection of the original marque (vehicle type).

Note: Check a list of vehicle owners clubs (V765/1) to get the particular marque for inspecting the vehicle. They should confirm in writing that:

  • They inspected the vehicle.
  • It is a true reflection of the vehicle marque.
  • It is comprised of genuine period components which are all more than 25 years old.

They should also be able to provide manufacture dates for the major components. Based on the least old component used, DVLA can then assign an age-related registration number to a reconstructed classic vehicle.

Using New or Replica Parts

A vehicle using new or replica parts may not meet all the conditions for keeping the original registration number. In this case, DVLA issue Q prefix registration numbers to use on the vehicle licence plates. But, all vehicles must pass a relevant type approval test before they get a Q registration.

Note: Once a vehicle has a Certificate of Destruction it must never reappear as a complete vehicle or get presented for registration. Even so, some components may get recycled. But, you cannot keep the original registration or the original vehicle identification number.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION

Kit-built Vehicles: The correct procedures for vehicle registration of kit-builds at the DVLA.
Kit-Converted Vehicles: The process for vehicle registration of kit-converts at the DVLA.
New and Used Vehicles: Check the process for registering different types of vehicles and fees.
New Registrations: Information on the process to get a vehicle registered yourself at DVLA.
Old and Classic Vehicles:
Radically Altered Vehicles: The process to register vehicles altered from their original specification.
Rebuilds: Check out how to register a rebuilt vehicle in the United Kingdom.
VIN Numbers: What is a VIN and why do DVLA sometimes issue ‘Q’ registration plates?

DVLA Reconstructed Classic Vehicle Registration in the United Kingdom