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Registering a kit built vehicle

2 seater kit car - registeering a kit built vehicle When building a vehicle from a kit, it will need to meet certain criteria before it can be registered. Find out how to register your vehicle and the different types of registration numbers given.

Registering kit built cars, motorcycles, and tricycles

Kit built cars, motorcycles and tricycles made from all new parts supplied by the manufacturer can be registered with a current registration number.

Kit built cars can also have a current registration number if you use no more than one reconditioned part. You will need to show the part used has been reconditioned to an ‘as new’ standard in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

The chassis or monocoque body shell (that is, body and chassis as one unit) of a donor vehicle cannot be considered as a valid ‘reconditioned part’ for retaining the current registration mark under these guidelines.

Documents needed to register your kit built car or motorcycle

To register your kit built car or motorcycle you will need:

  • Official receipts for the vehicle and any components used
  • Build plans for the vehicle
  • Correct vehicle tax (where appropriate)
  • £55 registration fee (if required)
  • A certificate of newness
  • From V55/4 – application for a licence for a new motor vehicle and declaration for registration
  • Insurance certificate
  • Documentation confirming your name and address
  • Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) or Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA)

If the vehicle cannot pass IVA or MSVA, it cannot be registered.

‘QNI’ prefix registration numbers

Kit built vehicles will be given a ‘QNI’ prefix registration number if:

  • you are unable to provide confirmation that the used component has been reconditioned to the manufacturers specification
  • more than one reconditioned part is used
  • the chassis or monocoque body shell is used as a reconditioned part
  • you do not have valid receipts

If you are unsure if your kit built vehicle needs a ‘QNI’ registration number, contact your local DVA office.

It is your responsibility as the vehicle keeper to ensure that your vehicle complies with the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999 if used on the road.

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