I'd like to bring my car to the UK with me...

Hi,

I am a student studying in a UK university and looking to bring my Irish car from home over here. I'm going to be studying on my course for another two years after this year and then hope to return back to Ireland post-graduation. How do I go about bringing my car over? As far as I know, the AA (my insurance company) will cover me in the UK just like they cover me in Ireland at no extra cost. The car is also already taxed for the year. I'd preferably like to keep the Irish plates on to avoid the hassle of changing plates now and then back again in the future.

Thank you.

Mar 2016 Filed under: importing

Expert answer

Hi John,

Sorry, but you'll have to change the plates - if you're bringing a car into the UK you only have to inform HMRC of the car's arrival within 14 days and then begin the re-registering process. The maximum time you could use the car on Irish plates for would be six months. The good news is that the process is relatively painless - you will have to get an MOT test done as the NCT won't be recognised, but other than that it's just some forms to fill out. If it's an older car you won't be liable for any VAT or duty so it'll only cost a little. You can find more details here - https://www.gov.uk/importing-vehicles-into-the-uk/overview