Classic Car Registration

Good to know:

• The technical inspection (MOT equivalent) is required every 5 years instead of 2

• it is optional for vehicles first registered before January 1st, 1960

• The historic registration allows driving across all regions, including abroad

• Some low-emission zones (LEZ/ZFE) allow access for historic vehicles

• You may use black vintage-style plates, with no region, department, or flag markings

Imported vehicle or “barn find” with no papers?

The solution for registration: the Historic Vehicle Registration Certificate.

What are the requirements?

These are defined by Article R311-1 of the French Highway Code:

"A vehicle of historical interest (classic vehicle) is one that meets all of the following conditions:

• It was first built or registered over 30 years ago;

• Its specific type, as defined by EU or national regulations, is no longer in production;

• It is historically preserved and maintained in its original condition, with no significant modifications to key technical components."

With this, you no longer need the original registration certificate to put the vehicle in your name.

How does it work?

We handle all the administrative steps to obtain the required certificate.

After an inspection of the vehicle — to identify it, record its features, and verify that it has not been modified — we take care of the formalities with the manufacturer or the FFVE (French Federation of Vintage Vehicles), depending on the case.

Delays vary depending on the period, ranging from one week to one month.

Motor Ring Conseil - RCS Versailles 850 565 862 - franck@motor-ring.com - +33 7.82.97.21.21.