DVLA V55/5 Form Rejection: Top 10 Reasons & How to Avoid Them

Getting your V55/5 form rejected by the DVLA is one of the most frustrating experiences in vehicle registration. You've waited weeks, maybe even months, only to receive a rejection letter that sends you back to square one.

The good news? Almost every V55/5 rejection is preventable. After analyzing hundreds of rejection cases and DVLA guidance, we've identified the most common mistakes that lead to rejection – and more importantly, how to avoid them.

The Cost of Getting It Wrong

A rejected V55/5 form doesn't just mean disappointment. It means:

• Weeks of additional delay while you correct and resubmit
• Potential late fees if your import deadlines are missed
• Storage costs for vehicles sitting unregistered
• Lost time gathering replacement documents
• Stress and frustration from dealing with DVLA bureaucracy

The worst part? Most rejections are for simple, easily avoidable mistakes.

4. Wrong Tax Class Selection

The Problem:

• Choosing "PLG" (Private Light Goods) for classic cars over 40 years old
• Not understanding the difference between Historic and PLG rates
• Selecting inappropriate tax class for vehicle type
• Missing the historic exemption for qualifying vehicles

The Solution:

• Vehicles 40+ years old: Choose "Historic" (usually £0 annual tax)
• Vehicles under 40 years: Choose "PLG" for most cars
• Motorcycles: Select appropriate motorcycle tax class
• Commercial vehicles: Ensure correct goods vehicle classification

5. Incorrect Date Formats and Timing

The Problem:

• Using American date format (MM/DD/YYYY) instead of UK format (DD/MM/YYYY)
• Requesting tax to start on non-existent dates (like 32nd of a month)
• Backdating applications incorrectly
• Insurance/MOT dates that don't align with tax start date

The Solution:

• Always use DD/MM/YYYY format (e.g., 15/03/2025)
• Tax must start on the 1st of a month
• Ensure insurance is valid from tax start date
• MOT must be valid throughout tax period

6. Missing or Incorrect Signatures

The Problem:

• Forgetting to sign the form entirely
• Signatures that don't match ID documents
• Missing date next to signature
• Someone other than the applicant signing

The Solution:

• Sign exactly as your name appears on your ID document
• Date the signature with the same date you're submitting
• Only the named keeper should sign the form
• Use your normal, legible signature

7. Identity Verification Issues

The Problem:

• Sending photocopies of ID when originals required
• ID documents that have expired
• Name on ID doesn't match name on application
• Missing address verification documents

The Solution:

• Check what ID format is required – some need originals, others accept photocopies
• Ensure all ID is current and valid
• Names must match exactly across all documents
• For address verification: recent utility bill, council tax, or bank statement

8. Incorrect Vehicle Technical Details

The Problem:

• Wrong engine capacity (mixing up CC with litres)
• Incorrect number of seats including driver
• Missing or wrong wheelplan information
• Incorrect body type selection

The Solution:

• Engine capacity in CC (e.g., 2000cc, not 2.0L)
• Include driver in seat count (5-seater = driver + 4 passengers)
• Wheelplan: Usually "2 Axle Rigid" for cars, "2 Wheel" for motorcycles
• Body type: Be specific – "Saloon", "Hatchback", "Estate", not just "Car"

9. Payment and Fee Calculation Errors

The Problem:

• Calculating registration fees incorrectly
• Wrong tax amounts for vehicle type
• Cheques made out to wrong payee
• Missing payment entirely

The Solution:

• Registration fee: Always £55 for V55/5 applications
• Tax amount: Check current rates for your vehicle type
• Cheque payable to: "DVLA" (check current requirements)
• Include payment with your application

10. Import-Specific Documentation Errors

The Problem:

• Missing NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) reference
• Incorrect country of origin information
• Missing Certificate of Conformity for EU vehicles
• Wrong import duty documentation

The Solution:

• NOVA reference: Required for most imports, get from HMRC
• Country information: Must match import documentation
• COC certificate: Essential for EU vehicles under 10 years old
• Duty papers: Prove all import taxes have been paid

The Final Check

1. Read everything aloud – if you stumble reading it, rewrite it
2. Check calculations twice – fees, dates, technical specs
3. Verify document dates – ensure everything aligns
4. Get a second opinion – have someone else review the form
5. Keep copies – photocopy everything before sending

What Happens If You're Still Rejected?

Don't panic. If your application is rejected despite following this guide:

1. Read the rejection letter carefully – DVLA will specify the exact issue
2. Correct only the specified problems – don't rewrite the entire form
3. Include a covering letter explaining what you've corrected
4. Resubmit promptly – delays can cause additional complications