Overview

• The DVLA issued an urgent reminder on X directing motorists to gov.uk/dvla/tax with the message, “Tax on time. Tax online.”
• Failing to tax a vehicle can lead to an out‑of‑court settlement of £30 plus 1.5 times the unpaid tax, possible magistrates’ court action with penalties up to £1,000 or five times the tax, and potential clamping.
• Applicants must have valid insurance and, where required, a current MOT, with checks made electronically, and will usually need a V5C logbook reference or the green new‑keeper slip.
• Drivers can tax vehicles online, via the 24‑hour phone line at 0300 123 4321, or at participating Post Offices, and can set up email or text reminders through a Driver and Vehicles account.
• The RAC says many motorists will pay around £195 this year, while some categories remain exempt, though vehicles must still be registered for tax to claim an exemption.