LCGB quick guide to registering a Lambretta
The most comon form of needing to obtain a registration is due to importation of having no valid documents. For this the DVLA will issue a new registration, valid to the year of production. For this you will need to do the following :-
- First of all take a frame rubbing as per the instructions on te main page.
- Send the frame rubbing and the appropriate fee to the LCGB.
- MOT the scooter, this will have to be done on the frame number.
- Insure the scooter, again the identity will be the frame number.
- Obtain and fill in a V55/5. You only need to fill in the parts that are relevant to a two wheeled motor scooter, ie you do not need to fill out such items as axle weight, seating capicity etc etc.
- Send the V55/5, a copy of your insurance certificate, the MOT, the letter of authentication from the LCGB, and the apppropriate fee to your local DVLA office
- Many DVLA offices work in different ways, some require you to make an appointment for inspection of the scooter, some do not, some require you to have an appointment, some may let you just turn up, you must check what your DVLA requires you to do, they make the rules.
- The DVLA will then return your paper work ammended in the appropriate ways. They will you notify you of your registration mark, send back an ammended MOT, etc.
- Once you have these details back, you can then of course have made and fit a number plate to use on the public highways. You should also notify your insurance company of the vehicles registration number.
Listed below are the answers to some popular questions.
Q. Can I ride my scooter to the MOT test station.
A. Legally speaking yes, as long as your scooter is booked into the MOT test station, and the test station is within a reasonable distance. By this the law means that if you live in Devon, and book a MOT with a station is Scotland, this is unaceptable, your nearest MOT station should be used. When booking the MOT, you should notify the test station of your frame number, so if you are stopped by the police, it can be verifed you are indeed on your way for the MOT to be carried out. It may also be a good idea to write your frame number on the rear of the scooter, where the number plate would normally go, but this is not a legal requirement. Of course the scooter MUST be insured for use on public roads.
Q. While I am waiting for the DVLA to issue my registration can I ride my Lambretta.
A. No, you must then wait until the DVLA have issued a registration mark.
Q Can I ride my Scooter to the DVLA inspection
A. No, many DVLA offices will even refuse to inspect the scooter.
Q. Can I choose my registration letters.
A. No, one will be allocated to your vehicle, it will also be issued on a non transferable basis, meaning you cannot sell or transfer the numbers.
Q. What type/colour of number plate can I have on my scooter
A. It depends on the year your Lambretta is verified as being. Pre 1973 machines can display a number plate in black backing with white or silver letters, or the more modern yellow backed ones, with black letters. In all cases number plates will need to be made to the current legal requirements in terms of size and letter spacing etc. Machines with a registration date after 1973 can only display a yellow / black number plate.
Notes on number plates
The DVLA require number plate manufacturers to be registered manufacturers, also all companies supply number supply need to be registered as well. When purchasing number plates you are required by law to supply documentory evidence that you are entittled to have the registration plates made. This normally requires two documents, one to prove who you are, one to prove the registration numbers for your vehicle. You may in some instances be able to have "show plates" made, which differ in size and shape to the legal requirements, but of course these should not be used on vehicles whilst on the public highways. If caught and the DVLA prove that a company made them for you to use on the road, the DVLA have the power to fine and to revoke the license for the supplying company making the plates.