Importing a Car to the UK: What You Need to Know

Summary

• You'll pay import duty and VAT: Import duty is usually 6.5% and VAT is 20%. These apply to most non-UK vehicles.
• The car must pass an IVA test or Type Approval: This checks it meets UK safety and emissions standards.
• Registration with DVLA is mandatory: You must register the car and get UK plates within 14 days of arrival. See our V5C guide for registration details.

Importing a car from Europe, the US, or Japan can sometimes save money — or let you get a model that's not sold in the UK. But the process has costs and complications.

Here's everything you need to know.

---

Why Import a Car?

• Better prices: Some cars are significantly cheaper in other countries.
• Rare models: Japanese imports (JDM cars) and US-spec vehicles aren't available in UK dealers.
• Spec differences: Some countries get better equipment or engine options.
• Left-hand drive: If you frequently drive in Europe, an LHD car may make sense.

---

What Does It Cost?

Cost	Amount
Import duty	6.5% of the car's value (non-EU imports)
VAT	20% of (car value + duty + shipping)
Shipping (EU)	£500–£1,500
Shipping (Japan/USA)	£1,000–£3,000
IVA test	£200–£500
DVLA registration	£55 (first registration fee)
Conversion work (headlights, speedo)	£200–£1,000+

---

The Import Process Step by Step

1. Find and buy the car: Research thoroughly. Get a full history check if possible.
2. Arrange shipping: Use a specialist car shipping company. Get insurance for transit.
3. Clear customs: Pay import duty and VAT at the port of entry. You'll need a C88 form.
4. Get the car tested: Book an IVA test (Individual Vehicle Approval) at a DVSA testing station.
5. Make required modifications: This may include converting headlights, adding rear fog lights, or changing the speedometer to mph.
6. Register with DVLA: Submit form V55/5, proof of type approval or IVA, insurance, and ID. You'll receive a V5C logbook.
7. Get UK plates fitted: Order plates from a registered supplier.
8. Book an MOT: If the car is over 3 years old, it needs an MOT before you can tax and drive it.

---

EU vs Non-EU Imports

Since Brexit, importing from the EU is more complex than before:

• EU imports: You pay VAT and may need IVA testing. No import duty if the car was manufactured in the EU.
• Non-EU imports (Japan, USA, etc.): Import duty AND VAT apply. IVA test required.

Always factor in ALL costs before importing. A car that looks cheap abroad can end up costing more than buying one in the UK once you add duty, VAT, shipping, and conversion costs.

---

Risks to Watch For

• Clocked mileage: Odometers in some countries show kilometres, not miles. Make sure the mileage is accurate.
• Accident damage: The car may have been in an accident abroad that doesn't show in UK records.
• Parts availability: Some imported models use parts that are hard to find in the UK.
• Insurance: Some insurers charge more for imported vehicles or won't cover them at all.

Always run a car history check to verify as much as possible before committing.

Read our other articles: