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Importing a Car from Northern Ireland to Ireland – Step-by-Step Guide from Todds of Campsie

How to Import a Car from Northern Ireland to Ireland – A Guide from Todds of Campsie

If you’re considering importing a car from Northern Ireland to Ireland, you’ll need to follow a few important steps to ensure compliance with Irish regulations. Whether you’re buying a vehicle from Todds of Campsie or another Northern Ireland dealership, this guide will help you understand the process, including VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax), VAT, customs, and registration.

Step 1: Gather Your Paperwork

To successfully import your car, you must have the right documents ready. These include:

  • Vehicle Logbook (V5C) – This official registration document proves ownership.
  • Invoice or Proof of Purchase – Confirms the sale and ownership transfer.
  • Certificate of Conformity (CoC) – Required for newer vehicles to meet Irish road standards.

Having these in order will make the next steps much smoother.

Step 2: Customs and Tax Considerations

One major advantage of importing a car from Northern Ireland to Ireland is that, under the Brexit trade agreement, Northern Ireland remains part of the EU’s single market for goods. This means:

No customs declaration is required if the car is originally from Northern Ireland. ✅ If the vehicle was previously registered in Great Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales), customs duties and VAT may apply unless proof of prior clearance in Northern Ireland is provided.

For more details, visit Citizens Information.

Step 3: Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) and Registration

When you bring the car into Ireland, it must be registered within 30 days. This involves paying Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) unless an exemption applies.

How to Register Your Car in Ireland:

  1. Book a VRT Appointment – Schedule an inspection with the National Car Testing Service (NCTS).
  2. Attend the NCTS Appointment – Bring all required documents, including:
    • V5C logbook
    • Proof of purchase
    • Certificate of conformity (if applicable)
    • Proof of Irish address and Personal Public Service (PPS) number
  3. Pay VRT and Receive Irish Plates – Once the VRT is assessed and paid, you’ll receive your new Irish registration number.

🔹 Use the VRT Calculator to estimate the tax before purchasing your car.

Step 4: VAT Implications

VAT rules differ depending on the car’s age and mileage:

  • New Cars (less than 6 months old or under 6,000 km): VAT must be paid at 23%.
  • Used Cars: Generally, no VAT applies unless the vehicle was imported into Northern Ireland from Great Britain without previous VAT clearance.

For further VAT guidance, visit Citizens Information.

Step 5: Final Steps – Motor Tax, NCT & Insurance

Once registered, your car must comply with Irish road laws:

✔️ Motor Tax – Payment varies based on emissions and engine size. ✔️ National Car Test (NCT) – Required for vehicles older than 4 years. ✔️ Insurance – Secure valid Irish motor insurance before driving.

Why Buy from Todds of Campsie?

At Todds of Campsie, we offer a wide selection of high-quality vehicles and a seamless process for importing a car from Northern Ireland to Ireland. Our team is experienced in handling cross-border sales and can assist you with the paperwork to ensure a hassle-free experience.

📌 Need more details? Read the official Citizens Information Guide.

By following these steps, you can confidently import your new car while avoiding unnecessary delays or unexpected costs. Happy driving!

“At Todds of Campsie, we understand that importing a vehicle can be complex, and regulations are always evolving. Our team is here to help, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process so you can drive away with confidence.”Jonathan Todd GM