Asger Risom
The DVLA has announced sweeping changes to its vehicle registration policies, set to take effect on August 26, 2025. The update will make it easier for enthusiasts to register repaired, restored, or modified vehicles—cutting red tape while safeguarding motoring heritage.
The DVLA has announced sweeping changes to its vehicle registration policies, set to take effect on August 26, 2025.
The update will make it easier for enthusiasts to register repaired, restored, or modified vehicles—cutting red tape while safeguarding motoring heritage.
A Long-Awaited Update for Enthusiasts
The DVLA says the revised guidance reflects modern restoration methods and will simplify the process for classic car owners, restorers, and modifiers. The aim: to keep more vehicles legally on the road without unnecessary bureaucracy.
Strong Response from the Community
The changes follow a major consultation that drew over 1,350 responses from classic car owners, motoring clubs, and the historic vehicle sector. Many welcomed the chance to streamline outdated policies.
Routine Repairs No Longer Need Approval
Under the new system, like-for-like repairs and restorations won’t require DVLA notification, as long as the vehicle’s appearance remains original and no changes are needed to its log book.
Modified Cars Can Keep Their Identity
Significantly, cars with major structural modifications will be able to retain their original VIN and registration number. Owners must still notify DVLA of the changes, but the process is less restrictive than before.
Green Light for Electric Conversions
In a boost for sustainability, vehicles converted to electric will also be allowed to keep their original identity. This change is expected to encourage more classic car owners to explore zero-emissions retrofits.
A Large Vintage Fleet in the UK
DVLA figures show there are nearly 340,000 vintage cars—over 40 years old—still registered in Britain. Around 12 percent are officially off the road, but many remain in active use thanks to restoration and modification work.
Government Voices Support
Lilian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads, said the reforms are about “celebrating the UK’s amazing motoring heritage” while ensuring enthusiasts face fewer barriers. She highlighted the role of restorations and EV conversions in keeping the culture alive.
DVLA Chief Executive Backs the Change
Tim Moss, Chief Executive of the DVLA, stressed that the updates were shaped in collaboration with the classic car community. He said the goal is to give keepers “clearer registration processes that reflect modern practices.”
Changes Take Effect August 26
The updated policies will go live on August 26, 2025, with full details published on GOV.UK the same day. Classic car fans and modifiers are encouraged to review the new rules and prepare for a smoother process.
