The reconstructed classic category is intended to support the restoration of unregistered classic vehicles built using parts from more than one motorcycle. Often, vehicles which require to apply for a reconstructed classic registration are due to the original VIN (frame number) being missing, unclear or altered to make it unclear.

If you think you may need to use the reconstructed classic route, or you have had a letter from the DVLA saying that you may be able to register the bike under the reconstructed classic route, then please contact the BSAOC at an early point to help guide the process.

DVLA can only recognise your vehicle as a reconstructed classic vehicle if it meets certain criteria. It must be:

-   built from genuine period components from more than one vehicle, all over 25 years old and of the same specification as the original vehicle

-   a true reflection of the marque

NOTE: Reconstructed classics or replica classic vehicles built to original specifications using a mixture of new and used components, will be issued a ‘Q’/ ‘QNI’ registration number. Refer to INF318 (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-changes-to-a-vehicle-and-registering-kit-built-kit-converted-and-reconstructed-classic-vehicles-inf318) for more details.

The BSA Owners’ Club (BSAOC) is listed on the DVLA V765/1 to provide inspection reports for BSA Motorcycles.

The BSAOC must confirm that, following an inspection, the components of the vehicle have been authenticated and that the whole machine is a true reflection of the marque. The inspection report will confirm the date of manufacture of each major component of the vehicle.

For motorcycles, the major components are frame, forks, wheels/hubs, engine and gearbox.

In order to register the vehicle a new VIN may be required to be issued by DVLA.

If a new VIN is needed to be allocated, you will need to contact the DVLA, supplying your name, address and reason you require a new VIN (Kits and Rebuilds, DVLA, Swansea SA99 1ZZ, email DVLAVIN@dvla.gov.uk).

The VIN should be marked:

-   On the right-hand side of the vehicle in a clearly visible and accessible position

-   In a way so it cannot deteriorate or be destroyed

-   On a plate which is attached to the vehicle frame

-   By a franchised dealer or local garage, who should also provide a signed statement (with dealer stamp) confirming that the VIN has been stamped or permanently embossed on the frame.

You may need to apply for a Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) inspection if your vehicle has been built using a mixture of parts from previously registered vehicles (see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-motorcycle-single-vehicle-approval-msva). This includes:

-   amateur built vehicles

-   rebuilt vehicles

NOTE: The MVSA does not apply to vehicles over 10 years old, including those which need a new VIN where the original is not clear or has been altered.

When you are ready to proceed, then contact the BSAOC to obtain a Reconstructed Classic Vehicle Report. This will be based on an inspection of the photographic evidence supplied and by a remote video call inspection to support your application.
To apply for this report complete the Vehicle Report for Reconstructed Classic Request Form.

In some cases your vehicle may need to be physically inspected by a BSAOC representative. Where the inspection representative is required to travel to view the bike, a charge will be agreed prior to the inspection to cover expenses incurred.

Once you have your BSAOC RCC Vehicle Report and MVSA (if required) then you can apply to DVLA for an Age Related registration.

Documents to send to the DVLA

Address: Kits and Rebuilds, DVLA, Swansea SA99 1ZZ

NOTE: the DVLA will require the originals of the following certificates, not photocopies

-   Original of the BSAOC Reconstructed Classic Vehicle Report from the Club based on the inspection.

-   Completed V627/1 Vehicle parts statement form, using dating information from the BSAOC Reconstructed Classic Vehicle Report (see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/vehicle-parts-statement-v6271).

-   An MSVA certificate (if required – MVSA does not apply to vehicles over 10 years old)

-   Proof of a valid MOT (electronic copies are acceptable).

-   An insurance certificate for vehicles registered with a Northern Ireland address (downloaded copies are acceptable, photocopies are not)

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

-   Receipts (you must provide official receipts from identifiable suppliers for the major components used in the build)

-   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)

NOTES:

-   You cannot apply for a BSAOC Reconstructed Classic Vehicle Report, MVSA or a V5C until you have received and marked the new VIN.

-   The machine has to be refurbished and ready to use / roadworthy before you can obtain an age related registration, including an MoT.

-   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 it is issued.

-   The DVLA can inspect vehicles at random. You will be informed in writing if a vehicle inspection is required, and you will not be charged. The inspector will check that the vehicle exists, and the frame and engine numbers are recorded correctly.

-   If agreed by DVLA, an age-related registration number will be issued based on the age of the youngest major component used.

Contact details for the DVLA.

The address is Kits and Rebuilds, DVLA, Swansea SA99 1ZZ or via https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla .

What does it cost?

Basic £20 for BSA Owners’ Club members and £30 for non-members.

If a physical vehicle inspection is required then any extra cost will be agreed in advance with the applicant.

Cheques and Postal Orders should be made payable to BSA Owners Club Library Account.

To pay online (e.g. by BACS), please use the following details:-

-   Bank - NatWest,

-   Account name BSAOC Library Account

-   Sort Code 01-10-01

-   Account Number 65622960.

Please use your last name and postcode as reference and repeat on this form. This enables us to find you in the bank account and so process your application quicker.

All correspondence and applications initially should be sent to :-

-   by post to: BSAOC Machine Dating Officer, PO Box 111, Wirral, CH28 9DA

-   by email to: datinginfo@bsaownersclub.co.uk.

Updated 07/2026