Overview
- In a post on X, the DVLA told motorists they must tax their vehicle even if no payment is due and directed them to complete the process online.
- The registered keeper is responsible for ensuring a vehicle is taxed, regardless of whether the liability is zero-rated or discounted.
- Failure to tax can trigger an out-of-court settlement of £30 plus 1.5 times the outstanding tax, with cases that proceed to court carrying fines up to £1,000.
- Vehicles found untaxed can be clamped or impounded when parked on public roads, according to the latest guidance.
- The RAC says the only narrow driving exception is to a pre-booked MOT without stops or unreasonable detours, and recent April rule changes may have expanded who must register for tax, so drivers are urged to check their status online.