Skip to Content
Road Users

Hearses

Definition, type-approval, registration, roadworthiness testing. 

This content is for general information only. It does not, and is not intended to, provide legal or technical advice or to represent a legal interpretation of the matters it addresses.

Frequently asked questions

It is defined in EU Regulation 2018/858 as ‘a vehicle of category M intended for the transport of deceased persons and having special equipment for such purpose’. Hearses are considered to be special purpose vehicles (SPVs) i.e., vehicles which have been adapted in order to perform a particular function requiring special arrangements or equipment.

Yes. Since 29 April 2012 all NEW special purpose M1 vehicles must have proof of type-approval before Revenue will register them for use on Irish roads.


Related pages

Drivers of other vehicles

Vehicle standards and FAQs for special purpose vehicles, including motorhomes, ride-on lawnmowers, motorised wheelchairs, hearses.