What if NOVA has the wrong purchase price or value?
Reviewed 2026-07-10
Short answer
Resolve the value issue with HMRC or the declaration submitter before DVLA registration, especially if VAT or duty depends on it.
Official position
GOV.UK says whoever makes a NOVA declaration for a private individual may need an invoice or bill of sale if the vehicle was bought in the last 6 months, or a current in-person UK valuation if bought more than 6 months ago. VAT can be charged on the total cost of the vehicle plus delivery, extra charges and customs duty.
What to do
Check whether HMRC needs purchase evidence, valuation evidence or customs declaration evidence.
If the vehicle was bought more than 6 months ago, use a current in-person UK valuation where GOV.UK requires it.
Ask the agent or HMRC CARS how to correct value evidence if the declaration is wrong.
Keep the corrected evidence with your V55/5 pack.
Common mistakes
- Using a casual online valuation when GOV.UK requires an in-person UK valuation.
- Ignoring shipping, delivery or duty when VAT calculation depends on total cost.
- Trying to solve a valuation dispute through DVLA instead of HMRC or the agent.
Related help
Official sources
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