Does an imported vehicle speedometer need mph for MOT, IVA or DVLA?
Reviewed 2026-07-10
Short answer
Do not treat this as just a V55/5 box issue. The MOT checks that a required speedometer is fitted and working, while approval routes can require mph or dual mph/kph display.
Official position
The MOT manual checks whether a required speedometer is fitted and working. GOV.UK MSVA guidance says Partial MSVA checks speedometer display where the speed must be shown in mph or dual mph and kilometres per hour. Imported-vehicle approval and DVLA registration evidence should be consistent with the vehicle route.
What to do
Identify the route first: MOT only, IVA, GB conversion IVA, MSVA or Partial MSVA.
If the vehicle needs approval, check the approval standard before relying on a kph-only cluster.
Use a permanent, readable mph or dual-display solution where required by the approval route.
Keep any conversion evidence with the V55/5 and approval paperwork.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a kph-only speedometer is always fine because the car starts and drives.
- Confusing the MOT speedometer check with IVA or MSVA approval requirements.
- Leaving approval conversion evidence out of the DVLA pack.
Related help
Official sources
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