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A VRT check is a quick estimate of the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) you’ll pay to register an imported car in Ireland. Enter the car’s UK or Northern Ireland registration and its mileage, and our free calculator estimates the VRT due before Revenue makes its official assessment.
Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is a once-off tax charged when a vehicle is registered in Ireland for the first time. It applies to imported cars, vans and motorcycles, including vehicles brought in from the UK or Northern Ireland.
Once you’ve paid the VRT and the car is registered, you’ll receive a Vehicle Registration Certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT)?
Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is a one-time tax you pay when a car is first registered in Ireland. It’s calculated based on the car’s Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) and its CO₂ emissions band. A NOx charge is also added for most cars registered after 2019.
How do I calculate VRT on a UK or Northern Ireland car?
To calculate VRT on a UK or Northern Ireland car, you enter the vehicle’s number plate and mileage into the MotorCheck VRT Calculator. The calculator will then estimate the OMSP, match the CO₂ and NOx figures and show the VRT you’re likely to pay. Revenue confirms the final amount when the car is registered.
Is a VRT check the same as Revenue’s VRT calculator?
No. Revenue’s calculator on ROS gives the official OMSP and VRT for a specific make, model and variant. Our VRT check gives you a fast estimate from just the registration and mileage, which is useful when you’re comparing cars. Always confirm the final figure with Revenue before you buy.
How can I estimate VRT before I buy a car from the UK?
Enter the car’s UK registration and mileage into our free VRT calculator to get an estimate in seconds. Add it to the purchase price, transport costs and any VAT due to see the full cost of importing the car.
Do I pay VAT and VRT together?
VAT and VRT are not paid together. VRT is calculated on the OMSP excluding VAT, while VAT (23%) is charged separately on the purchase price when applicable.
How is VRT calculated for hybrid cars?
In Ireland, Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) for hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) cars is calculated using the vehicle's Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) multiplied by a percentage rate based on its WLTP CO₂ emissions band (ranging from 7% to 41%), plus a Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) levy.
What is the VRT on electric cars?
Fully electric cars (BEVs) are charged VRT at 7% of their Open Market Selling Price (OMSP), the lowest rate, and don’t pay the NOx charge. They also qualify for VRT relief of up to €5,000, which Budget 2027 extended to 31 December 2028. How much relief you get depends on the car’s OMSP:
Up to €40,000: the relief covers the full 7% charge, so there’s usually no VRT to pay.
€40,000 to €50,000: the relief tapers off as the value rises.
Over €50,000: no relief applies, so you pay the full 7%.
Can I appeal my VRT assessment?
You can appeal your VRT assessment if you believe Revenue’s OMSP is too high. Appeals must be made within 30 days of the assessment date.
What is the minimum VRT payable?
The minimum VRT you’ll pay is €140. This applies to vehicles with a very low market value.
How long does the VRT registration process take?
The VRT registration process usually takes 1–2 weeks in total. You can complete it at Dublin Port (3–5 business days) or Rosslare Port (5–7 business days). Once approved, your registration certificate is posted within another 3–5 days.
Why Use the MotorCheck VRT Calculator?
The free MotorCheck VRT Calculator provides an independent estimate of the Vehicle Registration Tax that may apply when importing a vehicle into Ireland. It uses available vehicle data such as registration details, mileage, CO₂ emissions and NOx information where applicable to give a fast indication of the likely VRT amount before Revenue completes the official assessment.
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