Special Purpose vehicles

These vehicles belong either to M (passenger vehicles) , N (goods vehicles) or O (trailers) category vehicles having specific technical features in order to perform a function which require special arrangements and or equipment.

Since 29 April 2012, all NEW special purpose M1 vehicles must have proof of type-approval before Revenue will register them for use on Irish roads. The manufacturer may apply for type-approval or individual vehicle approval for vehicles that are designed and constructed for use by the Defence Forces, Civil Defence, Fire Services or the Gardai.

Yes. The only SPVs exempt from roadworthiness testing are those used by An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.

You will need to contact Revenue who is responsible for vehicle registration in Ireland.

A vehicle with more than 8 passengers is required to have a first aid kit.

An ambulance has EU body type code SC and is defined as ‘a vehicle of category M intended for the transport of sick or injured persons and having special equipment for such purpose’. The patient compartment must comply with the technical requirements of Standard EN 1789:2020 which specifies the requirements for design, testing, performance, and equipping of road ambulances capable of transporting at least one person on a stretcher.

Yes. Since 29 April 2012, all NEW special purpose M1 vehicles must have proof of type-approval.

Yes. They are required to be tested at CVRT Centres.