UK DVLA updates classic car registration rules for reconstructed vehicles

The DVLA has confirmed registration rule changes for classic cars, requiring reconstructed vehicles to use genuine period components at least 40 years old, affecting thousands of owners. Announced after talks with historic vehicle groups, the changes align with the government's rolling 40-year definition and August 2025 reforms. Reconstructed chassis-and-bodyshell vehicles must combine genuine period components from more than one vehicle, all over 40; a replacement bodyshell is permitted if same specification. If a club cannot verify a vehicle’s date, a DVLA VIN and type approval are required for Q registration. CKD kit imports can be dated using export manufacturing or dispatch records.