CoC, IVA or GB conversion IVA: which do I need?
Reviewed 2026-07-10
Short answer
Use the route that matches the vehicle origin, type, age and specification. EU-registered vehicles usually use a CoC; left-hand-drive EU vehicles may need GB conversion IVA; non-EU vehicles often need IVA or MSVA unless exempt.
Official position
GOV.UK says imported vehicles need proof of vehicle approval to register and tax. For EU-registered vehicles, it says to get a European Certificate of Conformity, and left-hand-drive vehicles also need GB conversion IVA. For vehicles not registered in the EU, it says to apply for IVA or MSVA depending on vehicle type.
What to do
Identify whether the vehicle was registered in the EU, outside the EU, or previously in the UK.
Check whether the vehicle is more than 10 years old or otherwise exempt from approval.
Use CoC evidence where GOV.UK says that is the route, and IVA/MSVA where the vehicle does not have accepted approval.
Keep the approval certificate or exemption explanation with the V55/5 pack.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a CoC, IVA and GB conversion IVA are interchangeable.
- Using box 72 as a shortcut when approval is required.
- Ignoring left-hand-drive conversion requirements for EU-registered vehicles.
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.
Start your V55/5