Re-importing Your Vehicle to the UK

Understanding Permanent Export and Re-importation

When a vehicle registered in the UK is taken out of the country for a period exceeding 12 months, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) typically considers it to have been permanently exported. While this designation is intended for vehicles intended for registration in another country, it can also apply to travellers who find themselves abroad for an extended duration. Once a vehicle is deemed permanently exported, there is no longer an obligation to pay the Road Fund Licence (Vehicle Excise Duty), declare it as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), or have it undergo an MOT test. However, the vehicle remains on DVLA records, which can be verified through their online services. This article delves into the intricacies of re-importing such a vehicle back into the United Kingdom, covering the necessary procedures, documentation, and potential pitfalls.

Temporary vs. Permanent Export

It's crucial to distinguish between temporary and permanent export. A vehicle can be temporarily exported for a maximum of 12 months. During this period, the vehicle must continue to comply with UK road regulations, meaning it must possess a current MOT certificate and a valid Road Fund Licence. Insurance arrangements should align with local requirements in the country where the vehicle is being used. It is technically illegal to declare a SORN for a vehicle that is actively being used on the road in a foreign country. Within the European Union, temporary export is limited to a 6-month period within any 12-month span. Be aware that when returning to the UK via ferry from France, French authorities may report unlicensed British vehicles to the DVLA.

If your intention is to keep your vehicle outside the UK for over 12 months, it is officially considered permanently exported. You should notify the DVLA of the date of permanent export using section V5C/4 of your V5 logbook. This notification can be made either at the time the vehicle leaves the country or if you initially intended a temporary export but subsequently decided to keep it abroad. While it might seem convenient to declare a SORN for the period you are abroad without formally notifying the DVLA of permanent export, DVLA Booklet V100 explicitly advises against making a SORN declaration if you have sold, scrapped, or exported your vehicle. The legal standing of this practice when the vehicle is outside British jurisdiction can be considered a grey area. For more detailed information, consult DVLA Leaflet V526.

The Re-importation Process

Returning to the UK with a vehicle that has been abroad for an extended period, especially if declared as permanently exported, involves several steps and considerations. Generally, returning to the EU overland with your V5 logbook, regardless of how long the vehicle has been outside the EU, is unlikely to present significant problems. Similarly, vehicles that have been abroad for over 12 months, even if declared SORN (potentially illegally), should not encounter issues when returning to the UK. However, specific procedures apply, particularly when the vehicle has been declared permanently exported.

Customs and Duty Considerations

A primary hurdle for vehicles re-imported after more than a year abroad and declared as permanently exported is satisfying Customs and Excise. It is essential to prove that all applicable duties were paid in the UK prior to export to avoid further payments upon re-entry. Adequate documentary evidence is crucial. This typically includes:

Provided you can produce this evidence, your vehicle should be cleared for re-importation to the UK without incurring additional duties. Refer to Section 8 of C & E Notice No. 3, available online, for detailed guidance.

Customs Procedures for Vehicles Shipped by Sea (Unaccompanied or Accompanied)

The UK has different customs clearance systems at various ports. For ports like Tilbury, Felixstowe, and Liverpool, the procedure generally involves the following:

1. Ship Docking and Initial Checks: Upon arrival, a Customs Drug Detection team will board the ship. They may question passengers about their travels and any items they are carrying for others. A sniffer dog may be used to check cabins, followed by a similar check on vehicles. If you are not accompanying your vehicle, it will be inspected before unloading.
2. Immigration Clearance: For passengers accompanying their vehicles, Immigration authorities will be notified by the ship's captain. If Immigration wishes to speak with anyone, they will board the ship.
3. Vehicle Duty Clearance: After clearing the Drug Detection team, the vehicle must be cleared for duty. If you are accompanying your vehicle, it is imperative to visit the Port Customs Office.
4. Customs Routes: Customs will assign your vehicle to one of several clearance routes. Key routes include:
   • Route 1: Vehicle with Documentary Evidence
   • Route 2: Vehicle requiring a Vehicle ID Check
   • Route 3: Vehicle with Documentary Evidence and delayed clearing
   • Route 6: Documentary Evidence not required (less common for re-imports).
5. Entry Number and Customs Fee: Your vehicle will be assigned an Entry Number (e.g., 1234567890F). The date this number is issued is significant. Once port customs procedures are complete, you should receive Gate Passes for yourself and your vehicle, permitting exit from the docks. A £30 administration fee is payable to Customs. If you engage an import agent (often the shipping agent), they will typically handle this fee and may add their own charges. An agent is highly recommended, especially if you are not accompanying your vehicle, as it is likely to be placed on Route 3.
6. Central Hub Clearance: Port Customs forward all information to HM Customs and Excise Central Office (the 'Hub') in Salford. The Hub Helpdesk can be contacted for updates, requiring your Entry Number and its issue date.
7. Approval Documents: Upon clearance, the Hub's Car Team will issue approval documents. You will need to provide Customs form C88, Entry Acceptance Advice E2, and a copy of your V5 Log Book. You can expedite this by faxing these documents to the Car Team. Duplicates of these documents are also sent to the DVLA.

Customs Procedures for Vehicles Shipped by Ferry

When arriving at a UK port by ferry, you will typically have the option of using the Red Channel (Goods to Declare) or the Green Channel (No Goods to Declare). It is essential to use the Red Channel and declare your vehicle for re-importation. You will then likely follow a process similar to Route 1, requiring the documentary evidence mentioned earlier. You will not typically have an import agent to assist in this scenario.

Re-registration and Getting Back on the Road

Once your vehicle has cleared customs, the next crucial step is re-registration to get it legally back on UK roads. This involves obtaining valid vehicle insurance, a Road Fund Licence, and an MOT certificate.

Vehicle Insurance

You must have valid vehicle insurance. This can often be arranged online or by phone, even if you are not yet in the UK.

Road Fund Licence and MOT

As your vehicle will likely not have a current Road Fund Licence or MOT, you will need to arrange these. The most practical approach is to book an MOT test in advance for the day you plan to collect your vehicle from the port. It is advisable to choose a garage that can also perform any necessary repairs should the vehicle fail the test. You are legally permitted to drive a vehicle to a pre-arranged MOT test without a current MOT or Road Fund Licence, and there is no specified distance limitation for this journey.

Be mindful that MOT test appointments, especially at government testing stations run by VOSA, can have waiting lists, potentially up to six weeks. Ensure your chosen MOT station has the appropriate facilities for your vehicle's weight class (e.g., Class IV for most camper vans up to 3.5 tonnes).

MOT Testing and Vehicle Identification

All MOT stations are linked to the DVLA database. If your vehicle doesn't appear on the database due to its export status, the tester should issue a certificate using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or chassis number instead of the registration number.

Obtaining and Completing the V55/5 Form

You will need to obtain form V55/5 from the DVLA. You can request this by post from the DVLA Enquiry Office (0870 240 0010) or collect it in person from a Local DVLA Office. Obtaining this form in advance can save considerable time upon your return. The form will be supplied with an information pack.

When completing the V55/5, don't be deterred by the detailed information required, such as CO2 emissions. Complete the form using the same details as your original V5 logbook. Leave any fields you are unsure about blank, except for dates. Crucially, enter your vehicle's previous UK registration number, even if the guidance notes suggest otherwise.

Licensing and Documentation Submission

You can request either a 6-month or 12-month licence, with the option to pay for part of a month if needed. You will then need to post the following to your local DVLA office:

• Evidence of ID: Such as the counterpart of your Driving Licence or a recent Bank Statement.
• Vehicle Documents:
  • Completed V55/5 form.
  • Original V5 registration document.
  • Current MOT certificate.
  • Current Certificate of Insurance.
• Payment: A cheque for the appropriate licence fee, made payable to DVLA.

Note that the V55/5 form includes a Customs Form on its checklist. The DVLA considers the V5 logbook sufficient evidence of tax payment, as they receive this information from the Customs Hub. It is highly recommended to keep copies of all documents you submit.

Receiving Your Licence and Number Plates

Delivery of the licence disc typically takes 7-10 days. Upon receiving the licence disc, you will also get a Number Plate Authorisation Certificate (V948). This certificate allows you to obtain new number plates (if required) without needing the new V5 logbook, which the DVLA will send later.

SORN Declaration Upon Return

If you intend to keep the vehicle off the road immediately upon its return, you will need to declare a SORN. In this case, you will not need to arrange insurance, MOT, or a licence at this stage. Instead, you should use Form V890 (available from the Post Office) to declare SORN.

Summary of Key Steps for Re-importation by Ship:

• Arrange Vehicle Insurance: Prior to the vehicle being landed in the UK.
• Book MOT in Advance: For the day the vehicle is collected from the port, allowing legal driving to your home.
• Obtain V55/5 Form: From the DVLA before returning to the UK.
• Customs Paperwork: Complete at the port, ideally with assistance from an agent (e.g., the shipping company).
• Submit Documents: After the MOT is passed, send the V55/5, evidence of ID, and other required documents to your local DVLA office.
• Customs Confirmation: Ensure you receive confirmation from the Customs Hub regarding tax-free import.
• Drive Legally: Once the licence disc is received, the vehicle can be legally driven on the road.

This guide is based on practical experience and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the re-importation process. Always refer to official DVLA and Customs guidance for the most up-to-date information.

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