Pre-Purchase Planning
- Research comparable vehicle prices in Ireland using our VRT calculator
- Calculate estimated VRT using OMSP rather than purchase price
- Budget for all import costs (customs duty, VAT, VRT, registration fees)
- Check vehicle eligibility for any reliefs or exemptions
- Verify vehicle compliance with Irish standards
- Arrange transport to Ireland
Vehicle Documentation
- Original registration certificate from country of origin
- Proof of ownership (bill of sale, invoice)
- Service history and maintenance records
- MOT certificate or equivalent (if over 4 years old)
- Insurance certificate or cover note
- V5C log book (UK imports)
- EPA and DOT documents (US imports)
Customs and VRT Preparation
- Complete customs declaration (if importing from outside EU)
- Pay customs duty (10% for UK/Non-EU imports)
- Pay VAT (23% on vehicle value plus customs duty)
- Submit VRT application to Revenue
- Revenue assesses OMSP and calculates VRT due
- Pay VRT amount determined by Revenue
Vehicle Registration
- Book NCT test (required for vehicles over 4 years old)
- Pass NCT inspection
- Submit registration documents to Revenue
- Receive Irish registration certificate
- Collect Irish license plates
- Update insurance with Irish registration details
Post-Registration
- Pay annual motor tax
- Maintain valid insurance
- Keep up with NCT testing requirements
- Update vehicle address with Revenue if moving
Important Notes
- VRT must be paid within 30 days of vehicle arrival in Ireland
- OMSP (Open Market Selling Price) is determined by Revenue and may differ from purchase price
- Electric vehicles may qualify for up to €5,000 in VRT relief
- Vehicles over 30 years old qualify for reduced VRT rates
- Always verify current rates on Revenue.ie as they may change