24 September 2025
DVLA cuts red tape for classic car enthusiasts with easier registration policies
1 minute
‘It’s all about celebrating the UK’s motoring heritage’, says Future of Roads Minister
If you are a registered keeper of one of the 338,697* classic cars on the UK’s roads, ‘like-for-like’ repairs and restorations no longer need to be reported to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
The changes came into place on August 26, 2025, and changes will allow enthusiasts to focus on preserving and enjoying their vehicles which are more than 40 years old. This follows more than 1,350 responses from classic car owners, motoring clubs and the historic vehicle sector.
Cutting this red tape will be a particular boost for restorers, removing paperwork and streamlining ownership.
Lilian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads, said: “We know how much love, time and effort goes into keeping classic cars. These changes are about cutting red tape and making life easier for enthusiasts, whether you’re restoring a vintage gem or converting to electric.
“It’s all about celebrating the UK’s motoring heritage and helping the industry thrive.”
These are the three updated policies:
- Like-for-like repairs and restorations will no longer require owners to notify the DVLA if the vehicle’s appearance is the same as when it was manufactured and there are no changes to the logbook (V5C).
- Vehicles that have been subject to significant structural modifications will be able to keep their original Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes.
- Vehicles that have been converted to electric will be able to retain their original identity, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes.
Tim Moss, DVLA Chief Executive, said: “We recognise the time, passion and care that keepers of classic vehicles invest in keeping their cars on the road. That’s why we’ve worked closely with the community to shape these changes.
“These updated policies support historic vehicle keepers, and the wider industry, with clearer registration processes that reflect modern restoration and modification practices, helping safeguard the UK’s rich automotive history.”
See full guidance at gov.uk/vehicle-registration
*Responding to a Freedom of Information request from leasing comparison site LeaseLoco, DLVA records in December 2023 showed 338,697 classic cars were still retained by motorists in Britain.