The Vehicle Identity Check (VIC) has been introduced to help reduce vehicle crime. It is intended to deter criminals from disguising stolen cars with the identity of written off or scrapped ones. When an insurance company writes off a car, the registration document (V5 logbook) is surrendered to them and destroyed. The insurance company will then notify DVLA (NI) that the vehicle has been written off.
If a vehicle is subsequently repaired with the intention of returning the vehicle to the road, DVLA(NI) will no longer issue a new registration document or vehicle excise duty license until the car passes a VIC. The VIC is designed to help confirm that the vehicle being returned to the road has been repaired following accident damage and has not been stolen.
Any car that is notified to DVLA(NI) on or after 7th April 2003 as having been written off (category A,B or C), regardless of the date of accident, will require a VIC before a replacement registration document can be issued. This notification will set a 'VIC marker' on the vehicle record on the DVLA (NI) database. Vehicles cannot be volunteered for a VIC; DVTA will only accept applications for vehicles that have a VIC marker.
Yes. The VIC scheme also operates in Northern Ireland. Any vehicle that has been notified to DVLNI (Driver & Vehicle Licensing Northern Ireland) as having been written off by an insurance company and has not undergone a VIC in Northern Ireland will require a VIC in Great Britain if it is to be licensed and registered here. Firstly, an application for licensing and registration must be made to DVLA (NI). They will confirm whether a VIC is required. If it is, a VIC application can then be submitted to DVTA.
The VIC will be carried out by DVTA. It will involve comparing the vehicle presented against information held by DVLA (NI), such as the vehicle identification number, make, model, colour and engine number. The VIC will also compare the record of previous accident damage with evidence of damage repair as well as checking other components to confirm the age and identity of the vehicle.
Yes. Sufficient repairs must be carried out to support the intention of returning the vehicle to a roadworthy condition. The vehicle must be capable of being driven under its own power and should not be potentially hazardous to any person carrying out the VIC.
No. However the registration mark must be known and declared when the VIC application is submitted. Also, without number plates the vehicle cannot be driven to the VIC.
On arrival at the Test Centre the vehicle presenter will need to report to the reception desk with their appointment letter. They must bring along any evidence in support of their application such as vehicle repair receipts, MOT certificate, etc. After handing over the vehicle keys they will need to remain in the reception area whilst a trained inspector carries out the VIC. They will not be allowed to view the VIC. Following the VIC, they will be informed of the result and any necessary documents will be issued along with the vehicle's keys.
Yes. DVTA reserves this right. DVTA will refuse to carry out the VIC and the fee will be forfeited if:
The vehicle does not arrive at the appointed time or place.
The relevant fee has not been paid subject to the payment conditions stated on the application form.
The vehicle emits substantial quantities of avoidable smoke.
The vehicle or any part of it is so dirty that carrying out the check is unreasonably difficult.
The vehicle or its contents is in such a condition that a meaningful check would involve danger to a person, or damage to the vehicle or any other property, or that current health and safety legislation cannot be followed.
Sufficient repairs have not been carried out to support the intention of returning the vehicle to a roadworthy condition.
A door, tailgate, boot lid, engine cover, fuel cap, floor covering or other device, capable of being opened or accessed is locked or fixed so that a thorough check cannot be carried out.
The check cannot be completed due to a lack of fuel or oil, component failure, or for any other reason that will make completion unreasonably difficult or unsafe.
The conduct of the presenter is considered to be unreasonable.
The presenter refuses to or is unable to comply with the instructions given.
A fee will be only be refunded if an appointment is cancelled at least 3 working days before the appointment date. If an applicant wishes to move an appointment to a later date then they must contact DVTA as early as possible. If less than 3 working days notice is given, another appointment must be paid for.
DVLA (NI) must wait until they have received electronic notification of the result of the VIC from DVTA before they can issue a replacement V5. Under normal circumstances this will take 48 hours, however in a small minority of cases it may take longer than this.
A pass certificate will be issued if a vehicle passes the VIC. If a vehicle fails, a failure notice will be issued which will provide a reason for the failure. An electronic notification of the result will also be forwarded to DVLA (NI).
When issuing a pass result, DVTA are confirming that as far as can be determined, taking into account the evidence provided and within the scope of the check, that the vehicle is believed to be genuine.
Although DVTA issues a certificate, it should not be relied upon as evidence that a vehicle has passed a VIC. If a pass certificate is offered as proof, DVLA NI should be contacted on 02870341461. DVLA can then advise whether the vehicle quoted has actually passed a VIC.
The vehicle will be re-examined and you will be asked about repairs, etc, since the test. You must produce the inspection record sheet/notification of refusal and registration book. If the examiner allows the appeal, we will issue a test certificate. If there are good reasons for the appeal, we may refund all or part of the fee.
VIC FAQs
02870341461. DVLA can then advise whether the vehicle quoted has actually passed a VIC.
