Does a left-hand-drive EU import need GB conversion IVA?
Reviewed 2026-07-10
Short answer
Yes, where GOV.UK’s EU-registered vehicle route applies. GOV.UK says left-hand-drive EU-registered vehicles also need a GB conversion IVA certificate.
Official position
GOV.UK says to get a European Certificate of Conformity for an EU-registered vehicle. It then says if it is a left-hand-drive vehicle, you will also need a certificate of GB conversion IVA.
What to do
Get the CoC for the EU-registered vehicle.
Check the GB conversion IVA process for your vehicle type: car, van, light goods vehicle, motorhome or motorcycle.
Address conversion items such as lights, speedometer and mirrors before relying on the V55/5 pack.
Include both the CoC and GB conversion IVA certificate where required.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a CoC is enough for a left-hand-drive EU import.
- Completing V55/5 before the conversion evidence is ready.
- Confusing GB conversion IVA with full normal IVA.
Related help
Official sources
Ready to complete the V55/5?
Once the blocker above is resolved, use the guided V55/5 tool to validate the boxes, prepare the PDF and build the posting checklist.
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