Taxing a Newly Purchased Vehicle - Brand New
See also - How do I get a Registration Mark for my vehicle? and Rates of Duty
If you buy a new vehicle the dealer will usually apply on your behalf for the first vehicle licence at the same time as applying for the Registration Certificate. (You may need to produce documentation to confirm your identification). The vehicle should be licensed when you take delivery. In either case make sure that your full name, address and postcode and other details are stated clearly and correctly, as these details will be used to set up the vehicle record and will appear on the registration document.
If you purchase your new vehicle from a dealer who uses the new AFRL (Automated First Registration and Licensing) system this will link the dealers and manufacturers to DVA electronically so that they can register and license new vehicles. For some vehicles not covered by the AFRL system e.g. those involved in Cherished Transfers and goods vehicles over 3,500 kgs the dealer will need to apply on your behalf for your licence as stated above. When a dealer registers a vehicle using the AFRL system they will give you a confirmation of registration details document to sign. This document shows the details that we will use to set up the vehicle record. Before you sign the document, check that all the details are correct.
Licences may be bought for 6 or 12 calendar months. If the vehicle is being registered for the first time in Northern Ireland it is also possible to license it for part of the month in which it is first registered plus 6 or 12 months.
A fee of £55 is payable on the first registration and licensing of a motor vehicle in Northern Ireland.
The fee is designed to cover the administrative costs associated with registration of the vehicle throughout its life. The fee is applicable to all vehicles except those first registered and licensed in the "Disabled Exempt" taxation class.
