Drive from the port?

[bungie]

Can anyone tell me please, are you allowed to drive an imported car from the docks to home on the vin number? Insurance is no problem and in the past I have been able to do this but I haven't been able to find this information. Used to be just this one trip allowed, but have the rules changed?
I would be very grateful for your help.

[Roo]

The only places an untaxed car can be driven to are a pre-booked MOT or IVA test.

[driverrob]

I did exactly that 9 years ago. It was MoT'd for me and I think I insured it on the Vin no. but it had no tax disc, no plates even. I was assured the piece of paper from the importers made it legal for me to drive it home up the M3, which I did. I then had 2 weeks to polish the dockside st off it while waiting for the relevant documents to come through so I could get the plates made.

[oxam]

Yes and no...depends how your insurance company looks at it. When I imported my viper Competition Car Insurance told me I am allowed to drive the car only to a pre-booked MOT and IVA. So picked her up from the docks and drove straight to an MOT station without any plates or tax disc (IVA two days later). Make sure you have proof of the pre-booked tests in case you get pulled over.

[Motorama]

Don't know what age car you are picking up but bear in mind most US states don't have MOTs or safely inspections and you could be driving a car with unknown faults

[bungie]

Thanks for all your help. It is a '57 Chevy Belair.

[shovelheadrob]

AS Andy said best make sure it's roadworthy even if you're going to a pre-booked MOT (even though as a pre 62 you don't actually need one to register) you are still liable to prosecution if the vehicle does not comply with RTA. Last thing you want is a prohibition notice.

[Roo]

bungie said:

Thanks for all your help. It is a '57 Chevy Belair.

Bearing that in mind, and Andy's experience, get it transported.

The last old car I brought in came from a well respected car museum.
Four pages of MOT failures.

[bungie]

Thanks for all your advice. Have transport booked to collect it.