‘Pragmatic’ new DVLA rules for classic car owners

Richard Aucock
Thu, 28 Aug 2025

The DVLA has updated and simplified registration policies for repaired, restored and modified vehicles, in a move billed as ‘backing the classic car industry and driving enthusiasts’.

The DVLA policy changes follow a call for evidence that elicited 1350 responses from across the classic car industry.

They consolidate and replace a whole series of DVLA policies, some of which haven’t been changed since the 1980s, into two new sets of guidance for all vehicles, regardless of age.

The aim is to reduce the risk of classic cars losing their original identification after restoration, along with the risk of being refused registration altogether.

Key changes include like-for-like repairs and restorations no longer requiring notification to the DVLA. This is provided the car’s appearance is the same as when it was originally built, and there are no changes to the log book (V5C).

Vehicles with more significant structural modifications will still be able to keep their original VIN and registration number, so long as the owner notifies the DVLA of the changes.

And, controversially to some, vehicles that have been converted to electric will also be able to retain their original identity – again, so long as the registered keeper tells the DVLA.

“We know how much love, time and effort goes into keeping classic cars,” said minister for the Future of Roads Lilian Greenwood, “and we’re right behind the community.

“These changes are about cutting red tape and making life easier for enthusiasts, whether you’re restoring a vintage gem or converting it to electric.”

DVLA chief executive Tim Moss added the updated policies “support historic vehicle keepers, and the wider industry, with clearer registration processes that reflect modern restoration and modification processes”.

Dale Keller, CEO of the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA) said: “The policy changes by the DVLA encapsulate how industry and government working collaboratively can deliver better outcomes.

“It is testament to the hard work of the HCVA, and others, that the government has listened and acted with pragmatic changes that place the retention of historic identity at the forefront of registration policy, a move that will be welcomed by all historic vehicle specialists, owners, and historians.” 

The new policies are already effective, going live on 26 August 2025.

Ask HJ

Do I need to tell my insurer that the V5C says my car has been salvaged?

I recently bought a cheap car from a friend’s dad who had owned the car 12 years without incident but had failed its MoT I have had the repairs (failed ABS module) done and the car now has an MoT. Checking on the new V5 I noticed a comment “This vehicle has been salvaged because the estimated cost of commercial repair was more than the value of the vehicle”. The car is now fully roadworthy, has never been subject to an insurance claim, has never been involved in an accident and is unmodified. How has the V5 come to include this comment and do I need to make my insurance company aware of this?

Thank you for your message. It’s always best to be upfront and honest with your insurance company. This is to make sure they’re aware of the state of your vehicle and remain safe on the roads. It will also ensure information around your premium and value is accurate. The comment on your V5 could mean that the vehicle has previously been recorded as a write-off even if this wasn’t the result of an accident. This can happen for a range of reasons like being assessed and written off by an insurer, or due to non-accidental damage. Speaking to the DVLA is also an effective course of action, they could also advise what the comment is referring to.

Answered by Rhydian Jones

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