IVA - Individual Vehicle Approval

Introduction

An Individual Vehicle Approval is whereby a vehicle is granted an approval based on the relevant technical requirements. The vehicle concerned will need to meet the type approval requirements laid out by each member state by either National of EU legislation. An IVA is a VIN specific vehicle and typically will suit low production, IVA recognition or importation of vehicles.

 

NSAI grant IVA approvals for the following categories:

Category	Vehicle	Description
M	Passenger cars, buses and coaches	Motor Vehicles with at least four wheels designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers
N	Commercial vehicles	Motor Vehicles with at least four wheels designed and constructed for the carriage of goods
O	Trailers	Trailers (including semi-trailers) towed by motor vehicles of category M or N

 

Requirements

In order to gain an IVA, NSAI assess vehicles against Irish legislation. Each vehicle will need to meet the requirements laid out in Statutory Instrument S.I. 201 of 2024. This typically will involve an inspection by one of our Approved Test Centres (ATC's). See here for the minimum UNECE series level required.

• Definitions and Vehicle Categories

 

Important Note:

Type approval applications for all vehicles/trailers must be built and submitted by an Approved Vehicle Body Builder (AVBB). If the vehicle is built in a another EU member state, that vehicle must receive the equivalent National approval (IVA/NSSTA) in that member state before importation to Ireland. NSAI may be able to transfer that approval to the equivalent Irish approval if it meets the relevant requirements. See important update as regards non-EU member state applications. 

In cases where a vehicle or trailer has been issued with a European COC, an IVA is only possible if the vehicle/trailer has been through a significant subsequent stage manufacturing/adaption process. NSAI shall not issue an IVA where there has been no change to the vehicle since its initial production. 

In cases where a European COC is not accepted for registration (for example change in emission requirements), an end of series derogation may be an option. The RSA (Road Safety Authority) are the responsible body to be contacted as regards this.

For a breakdown of approval fees see here. 

RH Rev. 1.0