Yes, you can re-register a car in Ireland, but the process is specific and involves several key steps with the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Transport. The core requirement is that the vehicle must have been previously registered and taxed in another country. You cannot re-register a car that was previously registered in Ireland; that process is a change of ownership, which is simpler.
The most critical step is paying Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT). The amount is based on the vehicle's Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) and its CO2 emissions. You must obtain a VRT quotation from the Revenue Commissioners online before proceeding. After paying VRT, you need to present the vehicle for inspection at an NCT (National Car Test) centre to verify its identity and ensure it meets Irish safety and environmental standards.
Supporting documentation is essential. You will need:
- The original foreign registration certificate (the V5C logbook for UK imports).
- Proof of address in Ireland.
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport).
- Evidence that any VAT due has been paid.
Once VRT is paid and the vehicle passes inspection, you will receive a new Irish registration number and can then tax and insure the vehicle.
| Step | Key Action | Responsible Body | Important Note |
|---|
| 1 | Obtain a VRT Quotation | Revenue Commissioners | Calculated online based on vehicle details and OMSP. |
| 2 | Pay the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) | Revenue Commissioners | Must be paid before the vehicle inspection. |
| 3 | Pass a Vehicle Identity Inspection | NCT Centre | Verifies the VIN/chassis number matches documentation. |
| 4 | Submit Application & Documents | Motor Tax Office | Includes proof of VRT payment and NCT inspection report. |
| 5 | Tax and Insure the Vehicle | Owner | Cannot be driven legally without Irish insurance and tax. |
The entire process can take several weeks, so it's important to start well before you need to use the vehicle on Irish roads. For the most accurate and current fees, always refer to the official Revenue.ie website.
