IVA Testing for Imported Vehicles

Wondering if your imported car needs an IVA test? If you're importing a vehicle less than 10 years old from outside the EU, you'll need IVA testing to get it UK road-legal. We're DVSA-approved specialists who handle everything from modifications to test booking.

What Exactly is IVA Testing?

Think of the IVA test as your imported car's passport to UK roads. It's a comprehensive safety check that ensures vehicles from outside the EU meet British road standards.

The test covers everything from headlight beam patterns to speedometer readings. Most imported cars need some modifications before they can pass - that's where our expertise comes in.

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
  • Some EU vehicles requiring GB conversion post-Brexit
IVA testing process showing vehicle inspection at ShipMyCar

IVA Test Costs Explained

Many people ask "how much is an IVA test?" - but the test fee is just part of the story. Here's the complete cost breakdown:

Basic Test Fee

£199

DVSA test centre fee

Typical Modifications

£500-£1000

Lights, speedo, mirrors etc.

Common IVA Modifications We Handle

Lighting Changes

  • Headlight Conversion: Converting left-hand drive beam patterns to UK-compliant right-hand pattern. Essential for safe night driving.
  • Fog Light Repositioning: Moving rear fog light to the right side of the vehicle as required by UK regulations.
  • Side Marker Removal: Removing or disabling amber side markers on US imports.

Interior Modifications

  • Speedometer Conversion: Installing MPH speedometer or digital converter for vehicles with KPH-only displays.
  • Warning Lights: Adding required warning lights for seatbelts, airbags, and other safety systems.
  • Mirror Adjustments: Ensuring mirrors provide adequate UK-spec visibility.

Our IVA Testing Process

1

Initial Assessment

We inspect your vehicle and identify all modifications needed for IVA compliance

2

Modifications

Our technicians complete all necessary modifications in our workshop

3

Test Booking

We book your IVA test at the nearest DVSA centre and transport your vehicle

4

Pass Guarantee

95% first-time pass rate. We fix any issues if needed and handle retests

Why Choose ShipMyCar for IVA Testing?

DVSA Approved Test Centre

Direct relationship with DVSA for fast-track bookings

95% First-Time Pass Rate

Our thorough preparation ensures most vehicles pass first time

Complete Service

From initial assessment to passed test - we handle everything

Fixed Price Packages

No hidden costs - know your total IVA expenses upfront

In-House Workshop

All modifications completed by our experienced technicians

Import Specialists Since 2006

We understand import requirements inside out

Complete Import Services

Car Transport

Car Transport

Get an INSTANT breakdown of all costs involved for UK / EU Transport, or International shipment by air / sea freight.

HMRC Customs

HMRC Customs

Try our easy to use online platform for customs clearance & NOVA.

IVA / MOT Testing

IVA / MOT Testing

Use our pricing calculator to see what modifications and testing your car may need.

DVLA Registration

DVLA Registration

End-to-end DVLA registration service for imported vehicles. We handle all paperwork to get your vehicle road-legal.

Ready to Book Your IVA Test?

Get your imported vehicle UK road-legal with our comprehensive IVA testing service. Fast bookings, expert modifications, and a 95% first-time pass rate.