Importing an American car brings a lot of paperwork. Here's what each document is for, how a US car gets on UK plates, and exactly what we need from you to buy it.
Title
In the USA, ownership is shown by a Certificate of Title issued by the state where the car was registered. It shows the VIN, the owner and any lienholder (finance company), and it may carry a brand such as salvage, rebuilt or flood. When a US car is imported, the original title is a key part of its paperwork, so if your car is not yet UK-registered, keep it safe and send us a photo.
Bill of sale
The US bill of sale, export documents and shipping paperwork show how the car was bought and how it left the USA. They are not needed once the car is on UK plates, but for an unregistered import they help show its history. Send whatever you have.
NOVA
When a vehicle arrives in the UK, HMRC must be told through the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) system, normally within 14 days, and any import duty and VAT paid. The DVLA will not register the car until that is done. If your car is part-way through, tell us how far it has got.
IVA
Most American cars are not built to UK/EU type approval, so a car under 10 years old usually needs an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test before it can be registered. Older cars need an MOT. US cars often need changes to lights and indicators to pass. If you'd rather not go through it, sell the car to us as it is.
V5C
With NOVA, an IVA or MOT and proof of the car's age, the DVLA registers the car and issues a V5C, usually with an age-related plate. If the car is already on a V5C, that is the main document we need, plus photo ID and the keys.
History
US vehicle history reports, auction listings, window stickers and dealer service records all help us understand the car's past. They are never essential, but if you have them they help us make an accurate offer.
This page is a plain-English guide, not legal or tax advice. Import rules change from time to time: we'll always tell you exactly what applies to your car.
Tell us up front. A branded title affects the value, but we still consider these cars. Photos and repair records help.
Yes, unregistered imports are considered. Tell us whether NOVA and the duty have been done, and what paperwork you have.
It means a US lender may still have an interest in the car. Tell us straight away and we'll explain what's needed.
Usually not. The V5C is what matters once the car is registered here, but the title is a useful part of the history.
Not at all. Historic and classic registrations are welcome, and dating evidence is part of the history.