What the DVLA’s new changes mean for the classic car industry

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has just made sweeping changes to cut red tape when restoring or repairing a classic car, bringing some welcome news for the classic car industry and enthusiasts. 

It is undoubtedly a big, and positive, shake up to owning, and enjoying a classic car, and our latest blog explores what has changed and what it means for motorists following the rule changes that came into effect at the end of August. 

Easier registration policies  

The DVLA has said it is backing the classic car industry by modernising the notification process around repaired, restored and modified vehicles. 

It makes life easier for enthusiasts and those working in the classic car industry as like-for-like repairs and restorations no longer need to be reported to DVLA, and more modified vehicles, including electric vehicle (EV) conversions, are able to retain their original identities. 

It’s the first time that the vehicle registration process has changed since the 1980s, with administrative issues and Q-plates being a major bugbear. 

In its announcement, the DVLA said: “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.” 

And it appears to have strong support from the sector, following an extensive call for evidence. This prompted more than 1,350 responses from classic car owners, motoring clubs and the historic vehicle sector, who made their voice heard on the previous system.  

We think it speaks volumes that so many from various sectors of the classic car industry were keen to have their say, quite clearly demonstrating that the previous registration system needed addressing. 

The finer details  

Now it has been implemented, there are a number of main points that those in the classic car industry, plus owners and enthusiasts, need to know. 

Perhaps most significantly, this includes that like-for-like repairs and restorations no longer require notification to DVLA, providing the vehicle’s appearance is the same as when it was originally manufactured and there are no changes to the log book (V5C). 

Other changes mean vehicles that have been subject to significant structural modifications can keep their original Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes. 

Meanwhile, vehicles that have been converted to electric are also able to retain their original identity, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes. 

From our point of view, it’s great to see that the repair and restoration registration process has been streamlined, removing red tape and making it easier to enjoy owning a classic car, hopefully encouraging more people to consider buying an older model, thereby further strengthening the market. 

An enthusiastic response from the classic car industry 

The Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA) is among those applauding the changes by DVLA. 

The HCVA played an important role in the updates and highlights that the changes bring much needed clarity for the repair and restoration of the UK’s historic and classic vehicle fleet. 

Significantly, it says the positive changes should not be underestimated and will be welcomed by all historic vehicle specialists, owners, and historians. 

Dale Keller, CEO of the HCVA, said: “The DVLA should be applauded for its engagement and commitment to deliver new policies that now recognises new technologies, techniques, and improved materials.” 

We agree that it’s hats off to the DVLA as it’s a fine line to make restorations and repairs an easier process while protecting the authenticity of a vehicle. 

Classic cars are to be enjoyed  

As a leading automotive marketing agency, Red Marlin enjoys a close connection with the classic car industry via our PR and media relations and digital marketing for a variety of clients in the sector, such as H&H Classics and Clayton Classics. 

It’s great to see the classic car industry being supported – as both owners and those who work in the sector have a huge passion for keeping the skills and heritage alive. 

Making life easier for all these people is a positive step forward, and something that should benefit future generations. 

To find out more about Red Marlin’s work in automotive PR and marketing for a range of clients, please get in contact.