For decades, a cloud has hung over restorers and enthusiasts: would a rebuild or repair trigger the dreaded Q-plate and wipe away a car’s identity? The uncertainty put provenance at risk and left many owners anxious.
Now, after years of campaigning by the HCVA (Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance) and the wider community, the DVLA has finally listened. A landmark policy change, effective 26 August 2025, introduces new clarity and protection for historic vehicles.
This is a win for classic car owners — but it also means documentation has never been more important. That’s where Custodian can add value.
Two new sets of guidance to apply to all vehicles, regardless of age, have been announced with key changes, including:
Like-for-like repairs are protected:
Like-for-like repairs and restorations will no longer require notification to the DVLA, providing the vehicle’s appearance is the same as when it was originally manufactured and there are no changes to the log book (V5C).
Clearer framework for modifications:
Vehicles that have been subject to significant structural modifications will be able to keep their original Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration number, but the registered keeper must notify the DVLA of the changes.
Vehicles that have been converted to electric will also be able to retain their original identity, but the registered keeper must notify the DVLA of the changes.
The DVLA now accepts that it is more useful to retain the original registration with a ‘modified’ marker on the vehicle’s log book (V5C), so that its history can still be traced, rather than erasing the original VIN and issuing a new registration number.
Q-plate uncertainty reduced:
Enthusiasts can restore cars with confidence that their provenance won’t be erased. Only where original identity cannot be clearly verified will the possibilities of DVLA VIN, Q-plate and IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) be considered.
Protecting heritage — Classic cars and historic vehicles can retain their original registration numbers, preserving value and authenticity.
Protecting value — Cars with continuous history and authentic registration details can be worth significantly more on the market.
Reducing bureaucracy — Owners avoid unnecessary DVLA challenges for straightforward repairs.
Confidence for restorers — Workshops and individual restorers alike can now carry out faithful rebuilds knowing the car’s identity is safeguarded.
Supporting Industry — With over 100,000 jobs tied to the UK’s £18 billion classic car sector, these rules provide long-awaited clarity and security.
If you own or are restoring a classic vehicle, here’s how to stay compliant under the new rules:
The DVLA also accepts that owners may now reapply under the new rules if they have been unhappy with the previous treatment of their registration number claim, and there is no time restriction for this.
It’s been advised that as the updated, more pragmatic DVLA policy takes effect, owners and workshops should document every stage of a project to keep registrations straightforward.
That’s exactly what Custodian enables.
A Digital History File from Day One — Record the first drive, upload photos, and log original documents digitally.
Full Restoration Record — Save workshop invoices, receipts, and progress photos. Custodian can timestamp and organise everything into a clear chronology.
Back-up Physical Documents — Digitise your V5C, insurance policies, MOT certificates, and service books so they can never be lost or damaged.
Previous History Preserved — Upload period adverts, auction catalogues, ownership records, and faded photographs. Custodian ensures fragile paperwork survives digitally for future generations.
Proof for DVLA and Insurers — If a restoration is ever questioned, you’ll have a watertight, date-stamped record to support DVLA compliance and agreed insurance valuations.
→ Tip: Check out Custodian Insurance for all your specialist car needs, including agreed valuations.
Every classic car has a story — but too often, pieces of it are lost. Old MOT slips fade, service books go missing, and sale notes disappear in a house move. Over time, a car’s rich narrative is eroded.
Yet provenance directly affects desirability and value. A car with a known, documented history commands more trust with buyers, insurers, and registrars alike.
With Custodian, you can:
How Owners Benefit
To understand when a car becomes a classic, check out our article here.
Do I need to tell the DVLA if I repaint my car?
Yes, if you change the colour. But a repaint in the same colour is considered like-for-like and does not need reporting.
Will no car ever get a Q-plate now?
Not quite. Major modifications or incomplete histories may still result in Q-plates. The new policy simply clarifies that faithful restorations are safe.
How can I prove my restoration is authentic?
Through proper documentation. Photos, invoices, and dated records help prove your work. Custodian gives you a central place to store and share this evidence.
What can I do if I was previously granted a Q Plate?
The DVLA accepts that owners may now reapply under the new rules if they have been unhappy with the previous treatment of their registration number claim.
The DVLA Q-plate policy change from 26 August 2025 is a landmark shift for UK vehicle owners. It removes unnecessary uncertainty, protects the heritage of classic cars, and recognises the realities of modern restoration and conversion practices.
Whether you’re repairing a cherished family heirloom, undertaking a major rebuild, or converting a classic to electric power, these new rules give you the tools to retain identity, protect value, and reduce red tape.
Custodian gives you the tools to:
Click here to begin building your digital garage today.
If you have any other tips, tricks or feedback, we would love to hear from you - please email us at hello@custodian.club to reach the team directly.
For more details from the DVLA, you can visit their website here.
*Disclaimer: The information in this article is correct as of August 2025 and is intended as general guidance only. DVLA decisions on vehicle registrations are made on a case-by-case basis. If you are unsure about your car’s eligibility or restoration work, always check the latest DVLA rules or seek professional advice. Custodian helps you document ownership and provenance, but does not guarantee compliance with DVLA policy.
