Search
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) would like to clarify the rules for vehicles registered in the Republic of Ireland that are rented for use within the UK, following reports of non-compliant hiring practices involving vehicles operating through Northern Ireland.
The DVLA has highlighted instances where vehicles hired in the Republic of Ireland have been brought into Northern Ireland, returned and then re-hired to UK residents. Under the Motor Vehicles (International Circulation) Order 1975, this is only permitted where the vehicle is re-hired to a person who is not resident in the UK and who intends to return the vehicle to the Republic of Ireland.
The agency has also reminded operators that vehicles permanently brought into Northern Ireland for hire or reward and rented to UK residents must be registered and taxed in the UK immediately upon entry, in line with the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994. Vehicles operating outside these requirements could be subject to enforcement action.
The BVRLA has updated its guidance for members to reflect the DVLA's clarification. Members involved in cross-border rental operations are encouraged to review the guidance to ensure their processes remain compliant.
