Registering a UK Car in Ireland

Although just the Irish Sea separates us, importing a car into Ireland from the UK has recently gone through some important changes. If you are looking to register your wheels in Ireland, read this blog to learn everything you need to ensure a successful registration.

As of January 1, 2021, registering a GB vehicle is treated as an import from a non-European Union (EU) country. If you have registered a car pre-January 2021, do not fear; simply provide some proof in the form of a sales invoice or ferry ticket and you’re good to go. Otherwise, follow the below process.

The Registration Process

Vehicle Registration TAX (VRT) Inspection

Final Steps

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The Registration Process

Let’s paint the scene, you are ready to register your car in Ireland but not sure where to start. Sound familiar? Registering a car can seem daunting, but with our expert advice you can feel relaxed knowing you are doing everything right.

First things first, you’ll need to let the British authorities know of your intention to register the car in Ireland. If you have ownership of your vehicle, you will have received a V5C document, which is the same as Ireland’s registration certificate. As stated by AA, complete the V5c/4 ‘Notification of Permanent Export’ section and send it to the DVLA. Keep the rest of your V5C document for when the Irish authorities to view. Upon arrival in Ireland, declare the vehicle to the Irish Customs if it’s coming from outside the EU. You may need to complete customs declarations and potentially pay import duties and VAT, depending on the circumstances of your move and the vehicles status.

Vehicle Registration TAX (VRT) Inspection

The car must then undergo a Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) inspection. You should book an appointment for this inspection with the Revenue Commissioners as soon as possible after the car arrives in Ireland. The VRT is determined based on the market value of the vehicle in Ireland. You’ll need to provide certain documents for the VRT inspection:

• Personal identification (e.g., passport).
• Proof of address in Ireland (e.g., utility bill).
• Vehicle’s original registration certificate from the UK.
• Proof of vehicle insurance in Ireland.
• Documentation proving the date the vehicle was brought into Ireland.
• Purchase invoice of the vehicle (if applicable).

After the inspection, you’ll be informed of the amount of VRT due. You must pay this tax to complete the registration process. Once the VRT is paid, you’ll be issued an Irish registration number, and you can then get your vehicle’s license plates made up.

Final Steps

You’re nearly there! Before hitting the road, ensure motor tax is paid, and your vehicle is insured. In some cases, you may require a specific form of Irish insurance to be able to drive your car.

If the vehicle is over four years old, it must have a valid National Car Test (NCT) certificate. The car must pass this test if it is to be eligible for use in Ireland.

In exceptional circumstances, you may have to make modifications to ensure the car is compliant with Irish laws. This could include changing the headlight alignment or amending the speedometer to show km/h.

With all taxes paid, tests passed, and compliance verified, your vehicle is now fully registered in Ireland. Ensure you keep all documents safe, including proof of VRT payment, motor tax, NCT certification, and insurance.

Remember, this process can be complex and may vary depending on specific circumstances, such as the age of the vehicle, its emissions rating, and whether you’re moving as part of a transfer of residence. Always refer to the most current guidance from the Revenue Commissioners, the National Car Testing Service (NCTS), and the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) for the latest requirements and procedures.

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