The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued an alert to all UK drivers, encouraging them to spend “five minutes” on an important task. DVLA is responsible for managing driver and vehicle records, issuing licenses and certificates, and collecting taxes, among other things.
In a post on X on Monday, DVLA urged motorists to set up a digital account, as it said: “Set up your Driver and vehicles account on http://GOV.UK and you can choose to receive vehicle tax reminders by text or email. Do it today – it only takes 5 minutes”.
Text on a graphic accompanying the update added that drivers can opt to receive “vehicle tax reminders by text or email”. This can be handy, as failing to tax your car or van on time can lead to harsh penalties.
Anyone found to be driving an untaxed vehicle could be fined up to £1,000, although there are some exemptions to this. According to the RAC you can drive your vehicle on a road without it being taxed if you are driving it to a pre-booked MOT test.
But if you stop anywhere on the way, even if just popping into a shop, or cover an unreasonable distance, this exemption will not apply. The RAC adds that disabled drivers may be exempt from paying vehicle tax, while certain vehicles such as electric cars and historic motors may also be excused.
To set up an online account, or to find out more, click here