Recent data suggests there are almost half a million untaxed vehicles on UK roads, and the responsibility falls to the registered keeper to ensure their vehicle’s tax is up to date. The repercussions for driving an untaxed car, van, or other vehicle can be severe, with fines of up to £1,000.
Earlier this year the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) issued a stark reminder on social media, insisting that motorists “don’t forget” to tax their vehicles. The message, posted on X, read: “Don’t forget to pay your vehicle tax! You can easily tax your vehicle online at: http://gov.uk/dvla/tax #TaxItDontRiskIt #DVLADigital”.
While the law requires vehicles to be taxed to drive on the roads, there are some exemptions. For example, as per RAC guidelines, motorists are allowed to drive an untaxed vehicle when heading to a pre-booked MOT test.
However if you cover an “unreasonable distance” or stop on the way, even briefly, this exemption won’t stand. As well as this disabled drivers, as well as owners of electric cars and older vehicles, may have the advantage of being exempt from paying vehicle tax.
That said, even if you don’t need to pay, you’ll still need to apply to tax your vehicle. If you aren’t sure when your vehicle tax is due, you can find out here