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 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
Initial Assessment
We inspect your vehicle and identify all modifications needed for IVA compliance
Modifications
Our technicians complete all necessary modifications in our workshop
Test Booking
We book your IVA test at the nearest DVSA centre and transport your vehicle
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
Get an INSTANT breakdown of all costs involved for UK / EU Transport, or International shipment by air / sea freight.

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

IVA / MOT Testing
Use our pricing calculator to see what modifications and testing your car may need.

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.