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MOTORING NEWS

New DVLA Rules Make It Easier to Register Modified and Classic Cars

DVLA Simplifies Registration for Modified and Restored Cars

Good news for classic car owners!

From August 2025, the DVLA introduced new registration rules aimed at making life easier for car owners, restorers, and the wider motoring industry. The updates reduce red tape, provide reassurance, and help protect the UK’s motoring heritage.

At Grove & Dean, we welcome these practical reforms, which will make the ownership and restoration process more straightforward for many of our clients.

classic cars are now easier to register

Key Registration Updates

Restorations

Extensive restoration work and like-for-like repairs will now be treated as a routine part of maintaining a vehicle. This means there’s no need to notify the DVLA every time you replace panels, rebuild engines, or carry out major repairs.

This reflects the reality that restoration is central to vehicle ownership and should not be weighed down with unnecessary paperwork.

Modified Cars

Modified vehicles - whether upgraded for performance, aesthetics, or converted to electric - will now keep their existing VIN and registration number. The V5C log book will simply note “modified,” preserving the car’s identity.

Q-Plates

Q-plates will now only be issued when a vehicle’s original identity cannot be proven. For most drivers, this removes the worry of losing a registration unnecessarily.

Why It Matters

  • Helping Enthusiasts: These changes simplify ownership, letting drivers enjoy their cars without additional admin.
  • Preserving Heritage: Retaining registrations ensures a car’s history remains intact.
  • Supporting Industry: Restorers, garages, and workshops benefit from clearer processes and fewer complications.

Recommendations for Owners

  • Keep records: Save receipts, photos, and details of modifications or restoration work.
  • Stay informed: Check GOV.UK for the latest DVLA updates.

Final Thoughts

We see these reforms as a strong step forward, balancing practicality with heritage. By simplifying processes and protecting vehicle identity, the DVLA is giving car owners greater peace of mind. At Grove & Dean, we’ll continue supporting drivers with the right cover and advice as these changes take effect.