IVA Testing for Imported Vehicles
Importing a vehicle less than 10 years old from outside the EU? You'll need IVA testing to get it UK road-legal. We handle all modifications and coordinate your DVSA test.
What is IVA Testing?
The IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test is your imported car's passport to UK roads. It's a comprehensive safety inspection ensuring vehicles from outside the EU meet British standards.
The test covers everything from headlight beam patterns to speedometer readings. Most imported cars need modifications before they can pass.
Vehicles that need IVA testing:
- Cars imported from USA, Japan, or other non-EU countries
- Vehicles less than 10 years old without EU type approval
- Modified or kit cars being registered for the first time
- Rebuilt vehicles with significant structural changes
IVA Test Costs Explained
The test fee is just part of the story. Most vehicles need modifications to pass.
DVSA Test Fee
£199
Official DVSA test centre fee
Typical Modifications
£400+
Lights, speedo, mirrors, etc.
Common IVA Modifications
Every imported vehicle is different, but these are the modifications we most commonly perform.
Lighting Changes
- Headlight Conversion
LHD to UK beam patterns
- Fog Light Repositioning
Move to right side for UK compliance
- Side Marker Removal
Remove or disable US amber markers
- Reflector Adjustment
Ensure correct positioning and colour
Interior and Safety
- Speedometer Conversion
KPH to MPH display
- Warning Lights
Seatbelt and airbag indicators
- Mirror Adjustment
UK-spec visibility requirements
- Glass Markings
Verify safety glass compliance
How IVA Testing Works
We manage the entire process from initial assessment to passed test.
Initial Assessment
We inspect your vehicle and identify all modifications needed to pass IVA
Workshop Modifications
Our technicians complete all necessary work at our Milton Keynes facility
Test Coordination
We book your DVSA test and arrange transport to the test centre
IVA Certificate
Once passed, you receive your IVA certificate for DVLA registration
IVA Specialists Since 2006
We've prepared hundreds of vehicles for IVA testing and understand exactly what's needed to pass.
Experienced Technicians
Our team has prepared hundreds of vehicles for IVA testing
High Pass Rate
Thorough preparation means most vehicles pass first time
Complete Service
From assessment to passed test, we handle everything
Fixed Price Quotes
Know your total IVA costs upfront with no hidden charges
In-House Workshop
All modifications completed by our experienced technicians
Since 2006
We understand import requirements inside out
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IVA test?
The IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test is a safety inspection required for cars imported to the UK that are less than 10 years old and don't have European type approval. It ensures your vehicle meets UK road safety and environmental standards. The test covers items like lights, mirrors, seatbelts, emissions, and speedometer readings.
How much does an IVA test cost?
The DVSA IVA test fee is £199 for cars. However, most vehicles need modifications before testing, which typically cost £400 to £1,000 depending on the vehicle. Common modifications include headlight beam conversion, speedometer MPH conversion, and fog light repositioning.
What modifications are needed for IVA test?
Common IVA modifications include: converting headlights to UK beam pattern, fitting MPH speedometer or converter, moving rear fog light to the right side, fitting UK-spec mirrors, installing missing seatbelt warning lights, and ensuring all lights meet UK specifications. The exact modifications depend on your vehicle's origin and specification.
How long does IVA testing take?
The IVA test itself takes 3 to 4 hours at the DVSA test centre. However, modifications beforehand can take several days depending on the work required. We coordinate the entire process so you know exactly when your vehicle will be ready.
What happens if my car fails the IVA test?
If your vehicle fails IVA, you'll receive a detailed failure report listing all items that need attention. We fix all identified issues in our workshop and arrange a retest. Our comprehensive pre-test inspection means most of our prepared vehicles pass first time.
Do I need IVA if my car is over 10 years old?
No. Vehicles over 10 years old are exempt from IVA testing. They still need an MOT and must meet basic safety standards, but don't require the comprehensive IVA inspection. This makes importing classic and older vehicles considerably simpler.
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