Just copied this hope this clears everything up


The VIC Scheme – what you need to know
Believed correct 2.5.03
Vehicles with a notification date of before 6.4.03 are NOT included

1. What is the VIC scheme?

In 2003 the DVLA are introducing a number of measures aimed at reducing vehicle crime. One of these initiatives is the Vehicle Identity Check (VIC) scheme. From the 7th of April 2003 all Cat C vehicles notified to DVLA will have to undergo a Vehicle Identity Check (VIC) before they can be returned to the road. The identity check will help to confirm that details of the vehicle being returned to the road match the record held by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The check is not to confirm if the vehicle is roadworthy.

2.Which vehicles will the VIC Scheme affect?

*** Vehicles with a notification date of before 6.4.03 are excluded ***
Category D & X vehicles will NOT have to undergo a VIC inspection – the scheme only applies to cat C vehicles that are notified to DVLA on or after the 7th of April 2003 that you wish to return to the road. Please note that if the vehicle has been damaged it must be substantially repaired prior to undergoing the VIC

3. How do I put a vehicle through a VIC?

You must apply to the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (the new name for the Vehicle Inspectorate from 1st April 2003) to carry out the VIC. You will need to complete an application providing information such as the VIN number and the registration; a copy of the V5 is not required. A fee is payable in advance (currently £35) and application forms will be available from the following:
Any Vehicle and Operator Services test station;
Vehicle and Operator Services Agency, Welcombe House, 91-92 The Strand, Swansea, SA1 2DH
The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency Web site at www.via.gov.uk

Once they receive your application and fee, VOSA will book an appointment for you. You can liaise with individual test stations with regard to dates and times for inspection(s), and the tests should normally be carried out within days.


4. What does a VIC involve?

The check will take approximately 30 minutes. It will involve comparing vehicle details with information held by the DVLA - for example details of the vehicle identification number, make, model, colour and engine number. The check will also compare the record of previous accident damage with evidence of damage repair. Other components may also be checked to confirm the age and identity of the car.

5. What happens when a vehicle passes the VIC?

When a vehicle passes the VIC the result will be stored on computer by the DVLA, the person who took the vehicle for the VIC will be given written confirmation that it has passed the VIC on the day of the inspection. Only when a vehicle has passed can you apply for the V5 document.

6. What happens if the vehicle fails the VIC?

If VOSA cannot confirm the vehicle's identity, it will fail the VIC. The police will be informed that the vehicle's identity appears to have been altered. The vehicle will not be impounded and you have the ability to appeal this decision and must contact the VOSA to do so.

Steve