Importing & SVA

Some topics come up again and again. Here you will find short cuts to frequently asked questions, mainly of a technical nature.
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Ian
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Importing & SVA

Post by Ian » Thu Dec 22, 2011 12:56 am

The SVA system is subject to change, see discussion on the forum ON THIS LINK

Thinking about importing your own? You'll find useful advice here:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/Buyin ... icle/fs/en


An 'Import Pack' with forms and advice is available from DVLA here:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/Diol1/DoItOnli ... chk=V5p9K1

Questions about the SVA or Camper procedures?
http://www.igmaynard.co.uk/bongo/member ... vatest.pdf
http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/Buyin ... chk=fvejyg
http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/Buyin ... chk=Q2Yrd2

There are several SVA UK Test centres:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/Dl1/Directorie ... chk=e3OXla

The SVA procedure is similar to an MOT, but they check different things. At SVA, the import is compared against a 'model report' and covers European Type Approval standards, UK Construction and Use and Road Vehicle Lighting legislation:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/Buyin ... chk=LLGFMd

There's a charge for the SVA test: http://www.direct.gov.uk/Motoring/Buyin ... chk=n2itss

If the import fails, it can be re-tested. An SVA 'pass' certificate must be submitted to DVLA when registering the vehicle. Generally, you don't get it back but they should record its existence on the Vehicle Registration document.

If the vehicle is converted to a Camper, it doesn't need an SVA, but does need to meet official 'Motor Caravan' criteria. You submit the forms to DVLA and they can call the vehicle in for inspection by DVLA/VOSA. This is to ensure it fits the 'Motor Caravan' requirements.
If you want a Camper conversion that suits your needs, but won't pass the inspection, you should get the vehicle SVA'd. Or buy one that's more than 10 years old, as imports of this age don't need an SVA or a conversion.
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