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Registering kit built cars, motorcycles and tricycles

Kit built cars, motorcycles and tricycles made from new parts supplied by the manufacturer can be registered with a current registration number.

Kit built cars can also have a current registration number if you use no more than one reconditioned part. You will need to show the part used has been reconditioned to an ‘as new’ standard in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

The chassis or monocoque bodyshell of a donor vehicle cannot be considered as a valid ‘reconditioned part’ for retaining the current registration mark under these guidelines.

Documents needed to register your kit built car or motorcycle

To register your kit built car or motorcycle you will need:

• official receipts for the vehicle and any components used
• build plans for the vehicle
• correct vehicle tax (where appropriate)
• £55 registration fee (if required)
• a certificate of newness
• from V55/4 – application for a licence for a new motor vehicle and declaration for registration
• insurance certificate
• documentation confirming your name and address
• individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) or Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA)

If the vehicle cannot pass IVA or MSVA it cannot be registered.

• The cost of vehicle tax

• Vehicle first registration fee

• How to register your vehicle and identity checks

• The Individual Vehicle Approval scheme

• The Single Vehicle Approval scheme (SVA)

• The Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme

• Find your nearest DVLA local office

• DVLA form ordering service Opens new window

‘Q’ prefix registration numbers

Kit built vehicles will be given a ‘Q’ prefix registration number if:

• you are unable to provide confirmation that the used component has been reconditioned to as new standard in line with the manufacturers specification
• more than one reconditioned part is used
• the chassis or monocoque bodyshell is used as a reconditioned part
• you do not have valid receipts

It is your responsibility as the vehicle keeper to ensure that your vehicle complies with the Road Vehicle (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 (as amended) if used on the road.

For more information about these regulations contact the Department for Transport.

• Motoring contacts