Can I avoid VRT on importing my parents' car?

I was living in UK from January 2015 to December 2015. I was insured on and driving my parents' car. I now am importing that car into Ireland as they can no longer drive it. Will I have to pay VRT? I was resident in the Republic before going to UK for the year.

Marie Kearns (Ennis)

Jun 2016 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Marie,

Theoretically, as you're moving house and you've had the car taxed and insured at your previous address there should be only an administrative fee to pay. But I'm guessing it wasn't your name on the logbook while it was in the UK, which may put a spanner in the works (unless you and your dad have the same name of course...). I think your only option is to talk to someone on the Revenue help desk (and they really are very friendly and helpful) and explain your situation. There might be a loophole through which you can slip. 

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe