What You Need To Do

You have BSA and believe you know the registration, but it is not on the DVLA system - go to https://www.gov.uk/get-vehicle-information-from-dvla to check.

The DVLA computerised register was closed in 1983. After this, vehicles presented for registration were only allowed to display their original numbers if they satisfied certain criteria. However, from 5 November 1990, the rules were changed to allow vehicles to display their original numbers on a non-transferable basis, as long as applicants are able to supply documentary evidence to prove entitlement to the number.

You may therefore be able to keep the original registration number on your vehicle, but it will be non-transferable. In other words, you will not be able to transfer it to another vehicle at a later date.

NOTE: You will need documentary proof which links the frame number and the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN). If you do not have any documents then the application will most likely be refused by the DVLA. In this situation you are advised to apply for an age related registration mark - see Age Related Registration Notes.

Acceptable types of documentary evidence include:

-   Old green / buff log books

-   VT20 MOT Certificate with frame number and VRN

-   Other pre-1983 documentary evidence linking the frame number and registration number to the vehicle

-   Copies of the original registration records.

The original registration records were placed in archives in some, but not all, of the former licensing authorities. Many have been destroyed or lost. For lists of existing registers look at the Kithead Trust website ( www.kitheadtrust.org.uk).

-   NOTE: The DVLA have indicated that any documentary evidence submitted will not be accepted if it is laminated.

Assuming you have this evidence, in order to apply to register your BSA, please submit the following to the BSA Owners’ Club (the BSAOC is listed in the DVLA booklet V765/1 List of Vehicle Owners Clubs):

-   Form V765 Application to Register a Vehicle Under its Original Registration Number

-   Form V55/5 Application for a First Licence (NOTE: completed this using the BSAOC notes as a guide (How to fill form V55/5).

-   Photographs and rubbings of the engine and frame numbers

-   Photographs of the vehicle

NOTE: Photographs should show both sides and the front and rear of the motorcycle. They must be clear and in focus.

NOTE: Mark on one of the photos the position of the engine and frame numbers.

On the back of the photographs they should be endorsed with the following:-

I certify that this photograph is a true likeness of the machine bearing registration mark (registration) *add full registration number*

Frame number: *add number with any prefix*

Engine number: *add number with any prefix*

Date: *when photo was taken*

Signed:

-   Documentary evidence which links the frame number and the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN). See above for acceptable documents.

NOTE: This must be the original and not a copy. The BSAOC will return this to you directly once a certified copy has been made for DVLA purposes.

The BSA Owners’ Club will decide, based on an inspection of the photographic and other evidence, whether the vehicle is eligible to reclaim the original registration number. It may be necessary for a physical inspection to be conducted by a BSAOC Representative. If this is required then you will be contacted to make arrangements and agree any additional costs beforehand.

NOTE: the DVLA do allow alternative cubic capacities of the same basic engine and alternative original equipment engines.

The club will advise DVLA of their decision by sending the completed V765 and supporting documents directly to the DVLA. You will also be informed of the recommendation.

If the application is successful, you will receive the V5C registration certificate in the non-fee-paying Historic taxation class.

When you are ready to tax your vehicle, you may apply in person at Post Office branch that deals with vehicle tax. You will need to submit the following documents:

-   V5C registration certificate

-   Valid MOT certificate or V112 'Exemption from MOT testing' form (as applicable)

-   Valid Insurance certificate or cover note (Only for vehicles registered with a Northern Ireland address - downloaded or faxed copies are acceptable, however, photocopies are not)

NOTES:

-   The machine has to be complete with all major components (frame, engine, gearbox, front forks and wheels/brakes) when you apply. It does not need to be refurbished or ready to use.

-   Do not dismantle prior to receiving your V5C as the DVLA may require to do their own inspection.

Reclaiming an Original VRN on a Bike With An Existing Age Related VRN

For motorcycles which are already registered under an age related VRN and which you wish to now claim the original VRN, you will still need to be able to provide documentary proof which links the frame number and the claimed Vehicle Registration Number (VRN). If you do not have any documents then the application will most likely be refused by the DVLA.

Assuming you have this evidence, in order to apply to register your BSA, please submit the following to the BSA Owners’ Club:

-   Form V765

-   The new style registration document (V5C) bearing the age related VRN

-   Photographs of the vehicle as above, with endorsement (as above) on the back

-   Photographs and rubbings of the engine and frame numbers

-   Evidence which links the frame number and the claimed Vehicle Registration Number (as above).

NOTE: This must be the original and not a copy. The BSAOC will return this to you directly once a certified copy has been made for DVLA purposes.

These points are important so please read them

1) Making a false statement on the application and the photographs can render the applicant liable to prosecution.

2) The DVLA. always retain the right to refuse an application. The Club can only recommend not instruct. Reasons for refusal will be given however further discussion will not be entered into. Extra evidence in support of a case can be presented at no extra cost where an application has been refused on lack of evidence grounds, but the DVLA. retain the right to refuse an application.

3) The BSAOC fee is non-returnable. In the event of a refusal, the Club will issue a dating certificate to enable an age related number to be obtained, so be sure that the evidence is sufficient before sending your application! If unsure, contact the BSAOC by email or post first.

4) It is not the intention of the Club to physically inspect all machines; however, the Club reserves the right to call for an inspection. If travelling expenses are to be incurred by the Club Representative then you will be advised of the cost before the inspection takes place.

5) The Club will process BSA motorcycles only, for which we have records to support the decision.

6) Data Protection Statement: The information which you provide in your application and any other information obtained or provided during the course of your application for retention of registration will be used solely for the purpose of processing your application (including payment processing). The data will not be shared with any third party for marketing or commercial purposes other than 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