Where you have a refurbished motorcycle without a known registration (or where you do not have the correct documentation to support retaining an old registration) then it is possible to obtain an Age Related Registration from DVLA.

To be eligible, the machine must be complete and refurbished. The motorcycle must consist of the original unaltered frame, engine, gearbox, wheels/hubs and forks (Note: the DVLA do allow alternative cubic capacities of the same basic engine and alternative original equipment engines).

It should not be built using parts from more than one motorcycle type or have a modified frame. For those using parts from more than one motorcycle type or with modifications then refer to the Reconstructed Classic Notes.

When you are ready to proceed, then contact the BSAOC to obtain a Dating Certificate and Vehicle Report based on photographic evidence supplied and/or from an inspection to support your application. To do this complete the Dating Certificate Application Form for Age Related Reg.

Once you have your Vehicle Report, then you can apply to DVLA for an Age Related registration.

NOTES

-   The machine has to be refurbished and ready to use before you can obtain an age related registration.

-   Please check that the frame number on any NOVA or non UK registration document are the same as the numbers on your bike.

-   After submitting your documents to DVLA, do not dismantle your bike until you receive your V5C; DVLA may require the bike to be inspected before a V5C is issued.

Documents to send to the DVLA

NOTE: the DVLA will require the originals of the following certificates NOT photocopies

-   Original of the BSAOC Vehicle Report from the Club based on the photographic evidence supplied and/or from an inspection.

-   A valid MoT Certificate if appropriate.

-   V55/5 application form (NOTE: completed this using the BSAOC notes as a guide - see How to fill form V55/5.).

-   A photocopy of your photocard driving licence with your application form to prove your identity.

If you cannot do this, you must send in photocopies of one document that proves your name and another document that proves your address.

Documents you can use to confirm your name include: Current UK paper driving licence, UK/EU Passport, marriage certificate, decree nisi or absolute, birth certificate

Documents you can use to confirm your address include: A recent utility bill (within the last 3 months) such as: gas, electricity, water, landline phone bill, recent bank or building society statement (within the last 3 months), medical card, council tax bill for current year

-   First registration fee (currently £55)

-   HMRC NOVA acknowledgement letter – Only if the vehicle has been imported (as noted on the BSAOC Vehicle Report).

The importer of your bike should be able to supply you with its NOVA documentation. If not, you will need to fill in a paper NOVA1 form. You can get a copy of this form by phoning HMRC’s VAT helpline on 0300 200 3700 (open Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 6.00 pm - closed weekends and bank holidays).

Please note: HMRC will accept a partially completed NOVA1 notification form by the current owner of the vehicle. The NOVA1 should be accompanied with a letter of explanation and any information regarding the history of the vehicle. These may be invoices showing purchase in the UK, invoices for parts, etc., which will provide an audit of the vehicle’s history. HMRC accept that documentary evidence will be different for different projects (i.e. some vehicles will be barn finds, others restoration projects) however, the aim is not to cause distress but to ensure that HMRC are aware of the vehicle and that you are able to achieve a UK vehicle registration with the DVLA so the vehicle can be legally used on UK Roads. The paper NOVA1 form and audit evidence should be sent to the following address: Personal Transport Unit, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, BX9 1GD

The Club would also recommend that photographs of the complete machine, frame and engine numbers are included.

If the DVLA is satisfied with the application they will issue an appropriate age related registration number. NOTE. Age Related numbers are issued on a non-transferable basis. The registration document (V5C) should follow within six weeks.

Contact details for the DVLA are:- DVLA, Swansea SA99 1BE, telephone 03007906802 or at https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla,

Updated 07/2026