NOVA & HMRC

Can I send a V55/5 while NOVA is still processing?

Reviewed 2026-07-10

Short answer

No. Do not post the V55/5 until HMRC/NOVA has been processed and any VAT or duty owed has been dealt with.

Official position

GOV.UK says you cannot register the vehicle with DVLA until your NOVA application has been processed. If tax is due, it must be paid before the vehicle can be registered.

What to do

Check who made the NOVA declaration: you, the importer, shipping agent, customs agent or HMRC CARS team.

Get the NOVA reference or written HMRC confirmation and check the VIN or chassis number matches the vehicle.

Resolve any VAT, duty, valuation or import evidence query before preparing the DVLA pack.

Only post the V55/5 once the HMRC status is clear and the vehicle details match your registration documents.

Common mistakes

Posting the V55/5 because the 14-day NOVA deadline has been met, even though HMRC has not processed it yet.
Assuming a seller saying "NOVA is done" is enough without a reference or confirmation.
Using a different VIN format on the V55/5 from the one used in the HMRC record.