Guidance

How partial Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) works

Updated 5 October 2021

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/msva-partial-inspection-frequently-asked-questions/how-partial-motorcycle-single-vehicle-approval-msva-works

1. Vehicles that can have a partial MSVA test

You can apply for a voluntary partial MSVA test when you want to register a motorcycle, 3-wheeled or light 4-wheeled vehicle that:

  • is under 10 years old
  • has a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) showing that it has European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA)
  • is only set up for use in countries that use the right-hand side of the road - this will affect its headlights, speedometer and mirrors.

You can also apply for partial MSVA for a quadricycle that was originally approved with a hydraulic parking brake system.

You do not need an MSVA or partial MSVA test to register your vehicle with DVLA if the Certificate of Conformity says it’s suitable for use on the left-hand side of the road. You’ll need to get a GB conversion IVA instead.

If you do not have a Certificate of Conformity, you’ll need to apply for a full MSVA.

1.1 Registering your vehicle with an older 2002/24 model Certificate of Conformity

You may be able to register your vehicle with an older 2002/24 model Certificate of Conformity if the vehicle:

  • is under 10 years old
  • was built before 2016

You’ll need to get a partial MSVA test if it says the vehicle is only set up for driving on the right-hand side of the road.

DVLA may not accept a 2002/24 Certificate of Conformity if it does not contain the latest emissions information. You’ll need to apply for a full MSVA instead.

2. Preparing for a partial MSVA test

Before you come for your partial MSVA test you’ll need to:

  • modify your vehicle so that it’s suitable for driving on the left
  • choose which test centre you want your vehicle to be tested at

2.1 Modifying your vehicle before the test

If your vehicle is not suitable for driving on the left-hand side of the road you’ll need to modify it before taking your vehicle for a partial MSVA test. You’ll need to make sure:

  • the headlight is suitable for driving on the left-hand side of the road so that it does not dazzle other road users
  • the speedometer shows mph or dual mph and kilometres per hour (km/h)

Mopeds

Mopeds with only one rear view mirror must have it fitted to the right-hand side of the vehicle.

Quadricycles

Quadricycles with a hydraulic parking brake system must be converted to a purely mechanical operation.

2.2 Choosing your test centre

Your vehicle will be inspected by DVSA at one of its approved MSVA test centres. You can choose which one as long as it inspects the category of vehicle you want to be tested.

3. Getting a partial MSVA test

When your vehicle is ready for a partial MSVA test you’ll need to:

  • apply for a test
  • pay the test fee
  • transport your vehicle to the test centre

3.1 How to apply for a partial MSVA test

You can apply online or by post.

Apply online

  1. Download and fill in the application form.

  2. Save the application form on your computer.

  3. Send the application form to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) using the service to apply for vehicle approval.

  4. Pay the application fee by credit or debit card (DVSA will tell you how to do this after you’ve applied), or by cheque or using a pre-funded account.

Apply by post

You can also send the application by post.

Vehicle Approval Section
DVSA
The Ellipse
Padley Road
Swansea
SA1 8AN

Your application can be delayed if you do not fill in the application form correctly.

3.2 How much it costs

The test costs £12 (£10 plus £2 VAT). VAT is added because the test is voluntary.

3.3 Transporting your vehicle to the test

Partial MSVA is a voluntary test, so you cannot drive your vehicle to the test. You must transport it instead.

3.4 What’s checked and how long it takes

The test checks the headlights and speedometer. It should take between 15 and 20 minutes.

If the test is for a moped, mirrors may be checked.

Quadricycle parking brakes will be checked for both construction and performance.

4. After the test

What happens after the test depends on if your vehicle passes the test.

4.1 If your vehicle passes the test

You’ll get a Ministers Approval certificate. You must present this to DVLA with the original Certificate of Conformity when you register the vehicle.

4.2 If your vehicle fails the test

You’ll need to rectify the failure item and apply for another test.

4.3 Contacting DVSA

Contact DVSA if you need help with partial MSVA.

DVSA customer service centre
[email protected]
Telephone: 0300 123 9000
Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 6pm
Find out about call charges

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