August 26, 2025
The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) has today (26th August) issued new guidance to some of its vehicle registration policies, making the rules around the notification of modifications to already registered motorcycles old and new more straightforward.
These changes follow a call for evidence which NMC member, the Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC) responded to with the support of the NMC. Organisations in the four-wheeled historic vehicle sector also responded. As a result, the DVLA is replacing its existing policies on rebuilt and radically altered vehicles with three new sets of guidance that will apply to all vehicles, regardless of age.
Key changes include:
• like-for-like repairs and restorations will 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)
• vehicles that have been subject to significant structural modifications will be able to keep their original Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes
• vehicles that have been converted to electric will also be able to retain their original identity, but the registered keeper must notify DVLA of the changes
Previously, a range of changes to a motorcycle made during modification, restoration or repair, required notification and sometimes an inspection and re-registration. The new rules simplfy the requirements for when modifications need to be declared, though previous rules remain in place regarding replacement frames, frames that have significant structural difference after modification, or when a repair or restoration affects the VIN number details on the bike’s registration document.
Structural difference for motorcycles is defined as ‘including, but is not limited to, any lengthening, shortening, or widening of a vehicle’s frame or changing its appearance.’ There are separate rules for motorcycle to tricycle modifications.
In essence, the new rules widen the scope of what can be done before DVLA need to be notified of changes, which are now much more focussed on any radical changes to a motorcycle rather than on what parts are used on modifications, restorations and rebuilds which are ‘like for like’ and do not affect the original appearance of the structural aspects of a bike. DVLA say: ‘Unless the vehicle information shown on the V5C is affected, there is no requirement to notify DVLA where a vehicle has been repaired or restored to return it to its original working standard’
However, DVLA do require that ‘The appearance of the structural parts of the vehicle must be the same as when it was originally manufactured, or to a period-correct specification.’
In the case of notifiable structural changes, DVLA say that providing there are no concerns over a vehicle’s identity, a structurally modified vehicle will keep its original VIN and registration number. A new V5C will be issued to reflect any changes to the vehicle details.
The new guidance also restates rules around reconstructed classics. These are generally bikes built from parts gathered from several sources and the category is intended to support the restoration of unregistered classic vehicles. In this case, previous rules still apply (including those for imported motorcycles, which are either complete or imported as classics for restoration). Reconstructed classic vehicles must be composed of genuine period components that are over 25 years old and of the same specification. The appropriate vehicle enthusiasts club for the marque (make) must confirm in writing that following inspection, they authenticate that the vehicle is a true reflection of that marque and that it meets the above criteria. An age related registration number will be issued after application, but when a vehicle has been built with a mixture of new and used parts, a ‘Q’ registration number will be allocated.
However, it is not yet clear whether the new guidance means that the 25 year rule will continue to be restricted to ‘major’ components (forks, wheels and brakes, frame, engine and gearbox) or if it has been extended to other components, which would make age related plates harder to obtain where a motorcycle was incomplete prior to restoration.
Neil Lewis, President of the VMCC said: “The VMCC welcomes these headline changes as announced, as it will make the notification process for already registered, restored historic motorcycles much more straightforward than it is a present. On the issue of criteria for reconstructed classics, we will be seeking clarity from the DVLA in relation to what components are included in the 25-year rule. The VMCC will also continue discussions with DVLA and DfT on other areas related to historic motorcycle regulations”.
NMC Executive Director Craig Carey-Clinch added: ‘The revised regulations apply to motorcycles of all ages and not all owners may have realised that certain types of repair or modification were previously supposed to be notified to DVLA. This new guidance will bring greater peace of mind.”
ENDS.
Notes to Editors:
For further information, please contact Craig Carey-Clinch on 07979 757484 or craig@uknmc.org
The DVLA guidance can be found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6899c2cf3080e72710b2e335/INF318_making_changes_to_a_vehicle.pdf
(Pic: NMC)
