Any issue taxing a Japanese import?

Hi,

I'm thinking of buying a 2017 Honda Shuttle 1.5 from a dealership. Rang my insurance company and they said they do not insure Japanese imports. I was a little shocked as I had no idea it was an import. It has an NCT but no car tax. My question is, will it be a problem to tax if it's got no motor tax history?

Caroline Corbould (Swords)

Dec 2025 Filed under: taxation

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Expert answer

Hi Caroline,

If the car is already registered in Ireland and has an NCT then there will be no issue at all taxing it. The seller should be able to supply the usual Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC - often referred to as the log book). You can also check that the car is on Revenue's system by putting the registration into the Motor Tax Online page.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor