Vehicle standards for vintage vehicles
The rules and regulations that apply to private and commercial vehicles more than 30 years old.
A vehicle becomes vintage 30 years after the date of first registration. For example, a vehicle first registered on 1 February 1993 became a vintage vehicle on 1 February 2023.
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Vintage vehicles up to the age of 40 must be tested
Vintage vehicles up to the age of 40 must still undergo a roadworthiness test, if used in a public place. Vehicles over 40 years old are exempt from roadworthiness testing but only if used for non-commercial purposes, and you are still required by law to ensure it's maintained in good condition and does not pose a risk to other road users. If a vehicle is over 40 years old and is used for commercial reasons (e.g., as a wedding hire vehicle), a roadworthiness test is required.
Frequently asked questions
This content is for general information only. It does not, and is not intended to, provide legal or technical advice or to represent a legal interpretation of the matters it addresses.
Vintage vehicles and roadworthiness testing
Vintage agricultural tractors
Road traffic legislation for vehicles in use on Irish roads. Type approval legislation for new vehicles. Irish and EU safety and environmental standards.