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DVLA GUIDE - Unofficial Guide to the DVLA Register an Old Vehicle

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You are in the Drivers License & ID. If you are looking for Drivers License & ID information dvlaguide.com is the right site for you. In this section you’ll find out how to apply, renew and replace your drivers license, how to update any name or address changes, how to apply motorcycle license, or what medical rules apply to drivers

This site, dvlaguide.com, also covers the specifics for learners and new drivers, vehicle registration, taxing your vehicle, MOTs, how to SORN a vehicle, what forms you need and DVLA hours and locations.





Register an Old Vehicle

If you want to register an old vehicle, you may be able to register it under its original mark. You will need to apply through a vehicle owner's club who will pass your application to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for a new vehicle record to be set up.

Background Information On the Old Vehicle

In 1990 rules were introduced which allowed vehicles to claim back their original mark, on a non-transferable basis. This means that you will not be able to transfer it or put it onto retention at a later date.

How to Register your Vehicle Under its Original Number

To register a vehicle which is not recorded at the DVLA because it missed the 1983 deadline you will need to complete application form V765 available from your nearest DVLA local office or for download from the vehicle forms link below.

Applications for original marks are considered in the first instance by vehicle enthusiasts clubs. A list of authorised clubs is set out in booklet V765/1 which is available from DVLA local offices or by download on the motoring leaflets.

To apply you should:

  • complete form V55/5 available from a DVLA local office
  • complete form V765
  • provide a recent photograph of the vehicle and documentary evidence, such as the original log book, a pre-83 tax disc or MOT certificate, linking it to the original number

The application should be sent to a relevant authorised owners or enthusiasts club to be endorsed. You will not be obliged to join the club but you may be charged a fee for the service and the club may wish to inspect the vehicle.

Then What Happens?

The endorsed application will then be forwarded to DVLA for processing and a V5C registration certificate will be issued. The original number will be allocated on a non-transferable basis. In cases where the original number was re-allocated by the local taxation office or transferred to another vehicle, DVLA will allocate another number appropriate to the age of the vehicle. If this is a non-suffix or prefix number, it will also be non-transferable.