Thousands of motoring enthusiasts have been told a "major change" is being made which will "make life easier". The DVLA on Wednesday unveiled a major update to some of its vehicle registration policies. It said it will make it significantly easier for enthusiasts to register repaired, restored, and modified vehicles.
The new guidance reflects modern restoration methods and simplifies the registration process, helping classic car owners keep their vehicles on the road while ensuring safety and accurate records. It said the changes follow an extensive call for evidence, which received more than 1,350 responses from classic car owners, motoring clubs and the historic vehicle sector.
In response, DVLA is replacing its existing policies on rebuilt and radically altered vehicles with two new sets of guidance that will apply to all vehicles, regardless of age.
DVLA figures show there are approximately 338,697 vintage cars, older than 40 years, still registered and owned by people in the UK. However, not all of these are actively driven, with about 12 per cent being declared off the road by their owners, according to the Driving Instructors Association.
Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood, said: "We know how much love, time and effort goes into keeping classic cars – 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. It’s all about celebrating the UK’s amazing motoring heritage and helping the industry thrive well into the future.
DVLA Chief Executive, Tim Moss, said: "We recognise the time, passion and care that keepers of classic vehicles invest in keeping their cars on the road. That’s why we’ve worked closely with the community to shape these changes.
"These updated policies support historic vehicle keepers, and the wider industry, with clearer registration processes that reflect modern restoration and modification practices, helping safeguard the UK’s rich and wonderful automotive history. These changes will allow enthusiasts to focus on what they love most: preserving and enjoying these remarkable vehicles."
The new policies will come into effect on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 and the full guidance will be published on GOV.UK on the same day at: www.gov.uk/vehicle-registration
