Guidance

Making changes to a vehicle and registering kit-built, kit-converted and reconstructed classic vehicles (INF318)

Published 26 August 2025

Introduction

Telling DVLA of changes made to a vehicle

There is a legal requirement to notify DVLA of any changes made to a vehicle which affects the information shown on the V5C registration certificate (log book) such as replacing the engine. Check when you need to update your V5C.

Vehicle safety

A vehicle keeper is responsible for making sure their vehicle is always safe to drive (‘roadworthy’). A vehicle can be unsafe even if it has a current MOT certificate as the MOT only tests the vehicle’s roadworthiness at the time of the test. There are penalties for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition.

Find more information on roadworthiness and penalties.

Vehicles with personalised registration numbers

Not all registration numbers are transferable. Check your V5C registration certificate (log book) first. You may want to arrange a transfer or retain the registration number before you carry out any modifications or conversions.

Part 1 – repairs, restorations and structural modifications

Repairs and restorations

Vehicles which have been repaired or restored

Unless the vehicle information shown on the V5C is affected (details held in the vehicle details section of the V5C), there is no requirement to notify DVLA where a vehicle has been repaired or restored to return it to its original working standard.

Repairs and restorations will include the replacement of worn-out components or body panels, on a like-for-like basis, and of the same standard as the originals. The appearance of the structural parts of the vehicle must be the same as when it was originally manufactured, or to a period-correct specification.

There is one ‘exception’ to the above, which is the like-for-like replacement of chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles) as this would be a notifiable repair -see the section on replacing a vehicle’s chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles).

While repair or restoration work will not affect a vehicle’s registration details, we recommend that you present your vehicle for an MOT as a roadworthiness check of the work that has been done, as you are responsible for the roadworthiness of the vehicle. There are penalties for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition.

It’s also recommended that you contact your vehicle insurance provider to check whether the changes affect the motor insurance cover.

Examples of repairs and restorations for cars and light goods vehicles (under 3,500kg)

Repairs and restorations will include, but is not limited to the following:

• replacing a boot floor
• replacing footwells
• replacing front or rear wheel arches or adapting front or rear wings to allow for wider wheels
• replacing sills
• replacing steering or suspension
• replacing the gearbox or axles
• adding a roll bar or roll cage
• removing an existing roll bar or roll cage fitted post manufacture – any attachment holes left after removal must be welded over, using a continuous seam weld to return a vehicle to its original condition
• replacing damaged or corroded body panels
• replacing a like-for-like component or panel with one that is made from different materials with equal-to or better-than performance characteristics than the original
• corroded areas of the chassis or monocoque bodyshell repaired using a patch, but must be continuously seam welded
• replacement of sub-frames
• fitting seatbelts (providing these are fitted as per the manufacturer’s guidance)
• fitting period-correct accessories (for example, additional lamps, tow bars and radio aerials)

Examples of repairs and restorations for motorcycles

Repairs and restorations will include, but is not limited to the following:

• repairing damage or corrosion to a motorcycle frame
• replacing the forks

Repairs and restorations that affect the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

If the repair or restoration affects sight of the VIN, the VIN or VIN plate will need to be re-stamped or attached to the replacement chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame by a garage that provides this service. We recommend that you keep evidence of the work completed (before and after) showing the VIN, as this may be required should the identity of the vehicle be questioned at a later stage.

Replacing a vehicle’s chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles)

Where a chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame for a motorcycle has been replaced like-for-like, (for example, without changing the vehicle’s appearance or dimensions from its original manufacturer’s specification), this is classed as a repair, but it does need to be notified to DVLA using the form ‘Vehicle parts statement’ (V627/1).

The replacement can be either brand new or second-hand but must be of the same specification as the original, although a non-galvanised chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame can be replaced with a galvanised one.

We recommend the vehicle is presented for a voluntary MOT as a roadworthiness check after the chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles) replacement has been completed. Alternatively, a car or light goods vehicle can be presented for a voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) inspection as a safety check following the replacement.

If you’re using a second-hand replacement, evidence of the identity of the donor vehicle must be provided, this includes the V5C registration certificate (log book) for the donor vehicle, or official receipts from identifiable suppliers.

Where second-hand replacement parts are used to repair or restore a vehicle, these should be sourced carefully with only minor components being able to be taken from a vehicle which has been issued with a Certificate of Destruction (CoD). Read more about scrapping your vehicle and insurance write-offs.

Once your application is processed, we will provide authorisation for the part to be re-stamped with the VIN or frame number of the vehicle. This must be re-stamped next to or in the same area as the existing stamping. Any existing identification number must be partially obliterated by stamping a series of ‘–––––’ characters. If there is no existing stamping, the VIN should be stamped on the right-hand side of the vehicle in a clearly visible and accessible position, in a way that it cannot deteriorate or be destroyed.

Once confirmation that the original VIN has been re-stamped, we will issue a new V5C registration certificate (log book) which will include a marker in the Special Notes section.

Structural modifications

Vehicles that have been structurally modified from their original specification

You must notify DVLA when a vehicle has undergone a structural modification. This must be done using the form ‘Modified vehicle statement’ (V627/3). An MOT may be required - see the MOT requirements for modifications.

This work should only be carried out by a person with the relevant engineering knowledge to carry out a modification safely. It’s also recommended that you contact your vehicle insurance provider to check whether the changes affect the motor insurance cover.

What is a structural modification?

A structural modification will include cutting into a vehicle’s chassis (in the case of a vehicle with a separate chassis), monocoque bodyshell (in the case of a monocoque vehicle) or frame (for motorcycles) and changing a vehicle’s appearance or dimensions from its original manufacturer’s specification.

It’s important to note that cutting into the above components for repair without changing the original specification (for example, replacing a section which is damaged or rusted), is classed as a repair or restoration.

Component definitions

Chassis: the load-bearing framework of a motor vehicle that is constructed with a separate non-load bearing bodyshell. Typically, it takes the form of a ladder-like frame upon which the body, powertrain and suspension are mounted.

Monocoque bodyshell: a type of vehicle construction where the body and chassis are integrated into a single, cohesive structure.

Motorcycle frame: a vehicle’s core structure and supports the engine and other components as well as the rider, passenger, and luggage.

Examples of structural modification for cars and light goods vehicles (under 3,500kg)

A structural modification will include, but is not limited to the following:

• lengthening, shortening, or widening a vehicle’s chassis or monocoque bodyshell to accommodate a different shape or style of bodyshell or resemble a different type of vehicle (for example, changing a vehicle’s specification or appearance from a coupe to a roadster or changing the appearance of a car or van to resemble a pickup)
• cutting one or more roof pillars and lengthening or shortening them
• removing the roof
• removing an integrated roll cage (for example, incorporated into the roof pillars as part of a vehicle’s original specification)
• modifying the design of load-bearing sub-frames or support members
• removing load-bearing sub-frames or support members
• making any additional holes within 30cm from any suspension, steering, braking, or seatbelt mounting point
• motorcycle to tricycle modification*
• conversion to electric propulsion**

Examples of structural modification for motorcycles

A structural modification will include, but is not limited to, any lengthening, shortening, or widening of a vehicle’s frame or changing its appearance.

*Motorcycle to tricycle modification

Where a motorcycle to tricycle conversion has been carried out using a conversion kit or plans, these will be assessed in accordance with the kit-conversion guidance. See the section on kit-conversions.

Where a motorcycle has been converted to a tricycle without using a conversion kit or plans, this is classed as a modification. Please note that:

• where the tricycle system has been welded onto a vehicle, a DVLA VIN will be allocated, and the vehicle will be required to undergo Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) before it can be used on public roads
• where the tricycle system has been bolted onto a vehicle, a MSVA is not required

**Vehicles converted to electric propulsion

Converting a vehicle with an internal combustion engine to electric propulsion must only be undertaken by a specialist with the electrical engineering knowledge necessary to carry out a conversion safely.

The process of converting a vehicle from an internal combustion engine to electric propulsion is considered a modification. This is because it requires the engine and transmission to be removed and significant modifications to key vehicle control systems, including braking and steering assistance, as well as changes to accommodate an electric motor and battery pack.

There is a legal requirement to notify DVLA of a change of fuel type as this may affect the information shown on the V5C. This must include full details of the modifications that have been done to the vehicle as part of the conversion to electric. The MOT requirements (over or under 40 years old) are also applicable for electric conversions.

Where the law allows, DVLA will amend the fuel type and tax class to electric.

Cars and light goods vehicles first registered on or after 1 March 2001 are taxed according to the CO2 emission figure. When a vehicle has been converted to electric propulsion, the law requires DVLA to retain the CO2 emissions figure recorded at first registration. This means the vehicle must remain in a CO2 based tax class and cannot be moved into the electric tax class.

MOT requirements for modifications

Vehicles over 40 years old:

To submit a modification for vehicles over 40 years old, you will need to provide an MOT.

Please note the requirement to present an MOT with your notification is applicable to all modifications including motorcycle to tricycle and electric conversion.

Vehicles under 40 years old:

We advise that you consider presenting the vehicle for a voluntary MOT as a roadworthiness check after the modifications have been completed. Alternatively, a car or van can be presented for a voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval inspection (IVA) as a safety check of the modifications.

Find out more information about the MOT requirements for vehicles that have been substantially changed.

Motorcycle to tricycle modification:

We advise that you consider presenting the vehicle for a voluntary MOT as a roadworthiness check after the modifications have been completed.

If the vehicle is over 3 years old, as the MOT class will be affected by this type of conversion, you will be legally required to obtain a MOT in the correct class. This must be provided as part of your notification to DVLA. This includes a vehicle that is over 40 years old and previously exempt from MOT.

DVLA vehicle identification numbers and Q registration numbers

Where there is a question over the identity of a vehicle, DVLA may require the vehicle to be inspected.

Where the identity or age of a vehicle cannot be determined, a vehicle may require re-registration with a DVLA VIN, IVA/MSVA and a Q registration number.

If you are considering buying a vehicle without a VIN or registration number, you should beware. If the police suspect that the vehicle has been stolen, you may lose it and the money you paid for it. Visit GOV.UK to get more advice about buying a vehicle.

‘Q’ and ‘QNI’ registration numbers are issued where the age or identity of the vehicle is not known. The display of a ‘Q’ or ‘QNI’ registration number is a visible sign to a prospective purchaser that the age or identity of the vehicle is in doubt. The vehicle must have IVA or MSVA before a ‘Q’ or ‘QNI’ registration number can be used.

The level of type approval and type of test required will depend on the vehicle. If your vehicle cannot be tested or it is unable to pass the test, DVLA will not register it. Further information on type approval is available from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) on 0300 123 9000, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) on 0300 200 7862.

Vehicle identity:

The inability to determine the identity of a vehicle could occur (but is not limited to) when:

• a vehicle is presented for registration without its original documents and where a club is unable to accurately date a vehicle
• a vehicle is not displaying a VIN or chassis number or has been modified to an extent that it cannot be identified
• the VIN or chassis number has been lost and valid evidence to confirm its identity cannot be provided
• a vehicle is not presented for a requested inspection
• the results of an inspection do not confirm the identity of the vehicle

Making your notification

Replacement of a vehicle’s chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (for motorcycles):

You will need the current V5C registration certificate or a completed ‘Application for a vehicle registration certificate’ (V62).

You will need photographic evidence for the vehicle receiving the replacement chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame (recipient vehicle) showing:

• the whole vehicle, including front, back, sides, interior and the registration number plate
• the stamped-in VIN or chassis number of the existing chassis, monocoque bodyshell, or frame (the one that is being replaced)
• VIN sticker if available (usually located in the door shut), of the existing chassis, monocoque bodyshell, or frame (the one that is being replaced)
• VIN plate and its location on the vehicle of the existing chassis, monocoque bodyshell, or frame (the one that is being replaced)
• the engine number of the existing vehicle

You will need a completed ‘Vehicle parts statement’ V627/1, providing full details of the replacement chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame.

Evidence for the replacement chassis, monocoque bodyshell, or frame must include either a copy of the receipt or invoice from the supplier which evidences its specification or the latest V5C registration certificate (log book) for this vehicle, if the replacement is taken from a registered vehicle.

Structural modifications:

Include the following supporting documentation for a modification notification:

• a completed ‘Modified vehicle statement’ V627/3, including the vehicle registration number and full details of the modifications that have been done to the vehicle
• the vehicle’s current V5C
• evidence of a current MOT (if required)
• supporting evidence from an owner’s club (if required)
• an MSVA – for motorcycle to tricycle modifications where the attachment has been welded on

What happens next

Providing there are no concerns over a vehicle’s identity, a structurally modified vehicle will keep its original VIN and registration number. A new V5C will be issued to reflect any changes to the vehicle details.

An explanation will also be included in the ‘Special Notes’ section of the V5C that the vehicle has been modified from its original manufacturer’s specification. Examples of the special notes are as follows:

• ‘Rebuilt’ – assembled from parts some or all of which were not new
• ‘Modified’ – the original chassis, monocoque or frame has been modified from the manufacturer’s original specification*
• ‘Electric conversion’ – the original combustion engine has been replaced by an electric motor and battery*

*These new markers will be available in the future, but for now, the current ‘Rebuilt’ marker will still be used because it effectively shows that changes have been made to the vehicle. Once the new markers are available, they will be applied to any applications processed after that date.

Part 2 – kit-builds, kit-conversions and reconstructed vehicles

Kit-built vehicles

If all the parts of a vehicle are supplied new by the manufacturer, the vehicle will be allocated a current registration number as long as satisfactory receipts and a certificate of newness are provided.

Kit cars which have been built using no more than one reconditioned component will also be registered under a current registration number, as long as satisfactory evidence that the component has been reconditioned to an ‘as new’ standard has been provided. The vehicle must have IVA or MSVA.

Kit-conversions

This is where a kit of new parts is added to an existing vehicle, or old parts are added to a kit of a manufactured body, chassis or monocoque bodyshell. The general appearance of the vehicle will change and result in a different description being put on the V5C registration certificate (log book).

A vehicle will keep the registration number of the original vehicle if the original unaltered chassis or monocoque bodyshell has been used along with 2 other major components from the original vehicle.

If a new monocoque bodyshell or chassis from a specialist kit manufacturer (or an altered chassis or bodyshell from an existing vehicle) is used with 2 original major components from the donor vehicle, a replacement registration number will be issued based on the age of the donor vehicle. The vehicle must have IVA or MSVA. The date of manufacture for the vehicle will be taken from the IVA or MSVA certificate. Where insufficient parts from a donor vehicle are used or in cases where the original registration is unknown IVA or MSVA will be required to register the vehicle and a ‘Q’ or ‘QNI’ registration number will be allocated.

Reconstructed classics

The reconstructed classic category is intended to support the restoration of unregistered classic vehicles. Reconstructed vehicles must be composed of genuine period components that are over 25 years old and of the same specification. The appropriate vehicle enthusiasts club for the marque (make) must confirm in writing that following inspection, they authenticate that the vehicle is a true reflection of that marque and that it meets the above criteria.

This written confirmation must be sent along with an ‘Application for first vehicle tax and registration of a used motor vehicle’ (V55/5). An age-related registration number will be issued based on the age of the youngest component used. Reconstructed classics or replica classic vehicles built to original specifications using a mixture of new and used components, will be issued a ‘Q’ or ‘QNI’ registration number. The vehicle must have IVA or MSVA.

Making your application

Include the following supporting documentation with your application:

• form ‘Application for first vehicle tax and registration of a new motor vehicle’ (V55/4) (for new kit-built vehicles) or form ‘Application for first vehicle tax and registration of a used motor vehicle’ (V55/5)
• vehicle tax (where appropriate)
• form ‘Vehicle parts statement’ (V627/1)
• IVA/MSVA certificate (if required)
• MOT certificate (if required)
• insurance certificate for vehicles registered with a Northern Ireland address (downloaded copies are acceptable, photocopies are not)
• certificate of newness (kit vehicles)
• registration fee (if required)
• receipts – you must provide official receipts or an invoice from identifiable suppliers for the major components used in the build, a copy of the receipt or invoice for its purchase and details of any identification or serial numbers shown on the replacement
• V5C registration certificate (log book) if a donor vehicle is used
• confirmation of ‘Notification of Vehicle Arrival’ (NOVA) if applicable - see more information at ‘Importing vehicles into the UK’
• documentation confirming your name and address – see the information below

Send a photocopy of your UK photocard driving licence with your application form to prove your identity. Do not send the original.

If you cannot do this, you must send in photocopies of one document that proves your name and another document that proves your address.

Documents we will accept to confirm your name are your:

• passport
• marriage or civil partnership certificate
• divorce or end of civil partnership document (decree nisi, decree absolute, conditional order or final order)
• birth certificate or adoption certificate
• gender recognition certificate

Documents we will accept to confirm your address are a:

• gas, electricity, water or landline phone bill issued in the last 3 months
• council tax bill for the current year
• bank or building society statement issued in the last 3 months
• medical card or letter

What happens next

Kit-built vehicles – a current registration number is allocated to a kit-built vehicle that uses no more than one reconditioned component. If the vehicle has more than one reconditioned component, a ‘Q’ registration number will be allocated.

Kit-converted vehicles – dependent on the parts used, a kit-converted vehicle can be assigned the original registration number, an age-related registration number or ‘Q’ VRN.

Reconstructed classic vehicles – newly built vehicles will be assigned an age-related registration number. Where a vehicle has been built with a mixture of new and used parts, a ‘Q’ registration number will be allocated.

An explanation will also be included in the ‘Special Notes’ section of the V5C. Examples of the special notes are as follows:

• ‘Rebuilt’ – assembled from parts some or all of which were not new
• ‘Kit-built converted’ – assembled from parts all of which may not be new

Where to send your application

Please send your application and supporting documents to the address below:

Kits and Rebuilds
D10
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1ZZ