A new 2025 DVLA rule change could backfire with road users at risk of fines as high as £1,000, according to a leading expert. Back in August, the DVLA introduced a new rule that allowed classic, modified and electric-converted vehicles to keep their original registration plates.
The move was widely welcomed by the car community, but experts claim the new policy has created a “paperwork nightmare” that could backfire on even the most careful owners. Chris Coops, Number Plate Specialist at Mr Plates, stressed there is a “major administrative bottleneck”, with new V5C forms taking some time to arrive. He warned motorists may end up displaying the wrong details on their logbook if they convert their car, which may lead to strict penalties if caught out.
Chris explained: “It’s fantastic that the DVLA is supporting the classic car community by making it easier for newly restored and EV-converted classics to keep their original registrations.
“However, this has created a major administrative bottleneck. The new rule means you must notify the DVLA and make sure your V5C logbook is updated immediately with the correct details – especially the fuel type, for example, changing from ‘Petrol’ to ‘Electric.’”
“Your number plate is the only identity your car has on the road. If you’re pulled over, or if an ANPR camera flags your vehicle, the system checks your plate against the DVLA record. If that record still says ‘Petrol’ but you’re driving an EV conversion, or the engine and colour details don’t match, you could face a fine of up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle that doesn’t match its registration document.”
Chris has urged road users to check their V5C as soon as possible to make sure vehicle records are correct. Motorists who have applied to change their vehicle status should keep photographic proof of a submission date until a new logbook arrives.
This could be used to counter-argue any costly fines and protect road users from unfair penalties through no fault of their own.
Chris added: “Simply fitting your new plate isn’t enough. If you’ve converted your car or changed any key detail, you must notify the DVLA and update the V5C logbook accordingly. Otherwise, your plate could be misleading the authorities, even if it’s an honest mistake.”
Express.co.uk has contacted DVLA for comment.
