IVA or MOT?
Most Australian cars take one test or the other before they can be registered here. The year it was made decides which.
Before the DVLA will register an imported car, it has to prove it is fit for UK roads. For an Australian car that means one of two tests, and the rule is simple: under ten years old is an IVA, ten and over is an MOT.
Over 40, too. Once it is registered here, it may also qualify for the historic vehicle tax class and an exemption from the annual MOT, as long as it has not been substantially changed.
Type a year to see what applies.
IVA: Individual Vehicle Approval
IVA is the check that a newer imported car meets the UK’s safety and environmental standards. It is more involved than an MOT, because it looks at how the car was built as well as the condition it is in.
We have been carrying out IVA work with the DVSA for over twenty years, and our lane in Castle Donington was the first privately owned IVA testing centre for passenger vehicles in the UK. That means we book the test ourselves, the car never leaves our site, and nobody is waiting for a slot somewhere else.
MOT: for cars ten years and older
Older cars take a standard MOT, the same test every UK car over three years old goes through each year. We do those on site too.
Before either test
Nearly every Australian car needs the same two jobs first: the speedometer has to show miles per hour, and it needs a rear fog light. We inspect the car when it arrives, do both in our workshop, and tell you about anything else that would stop it passing. Our speedo and fog light guide explains why the list is so short.
Over 30, and over 40
Age matters for tax too. A car over 30 years old in original condition can usually pay the historic rate at import: 5% VAT and no duty. Our classic cars page has a worked example.
Once a car is over 40, it may also qualify for the historic vehicle tax class and an exemption from the annual MOT after it is registered, as long as it has not been substantially changed. The DVLA sets those conditions.
After the test
Once it has passed, we apply for registration through our dealer-level DVLA account. That usually takes around 10 working days, and then the plates go on.
Quick answers
Does my Australian car need an IVA?
If it is under ten years old, yes. Older cars take an MOT instead. Our checker works it out from the year.
Where is the test done?
In our own lane in Castle Donington, the first privately owned IVA testing centre for passenger vehicles in the UK. The car does not leave our site.
What about motorbikes?
Bikes take MSVA, the motorcycle version of IVA. We test those on site too.