DVLA issues five-word warning warning as UK drivers taking 'risk'

Motorists have been issued a five-word warning - or face a fine instead. They are being cautioned to renew their car tax promptly or risk facing fines, regardless of whether they have a payment due and say: "You must tax your vehicle".

With the new financial year on the horizon, less than four months away, it's critical for drivers to be ready for impending adjustments in Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rates. In April, VED rates for cars, motorcycles, and vans are set to rise in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI), although this will not affect first-year rates for cars.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is urging UK motorists to update their tax details ahead of the changes. They've used social media platform X, formerly identified as Twitter, to remind drivers that vehicle taxation can be done through GOV.UK, while promoting the hashtag "#TaxItDontRiskIt".

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They further noted: "You must tax your vehicle, even if you don't have to pay anything."

While certain vehicles are eligible for car tax exemption, they still need to be registered as taxed with the DVLA, despite not incurring a charge.

Vehicles constructed before January 1, 1984, qualify for exemption. If an individual's classic car was registered prior to January 8, 1984, and they're unsure of its age, they are not liable for vehicle tax.

To officially halt payments, owners must seek a vehicle tax exemption. Failure to comply could result in fines up to £2,500 plus three penalty points if the car is deemed unroadworthy.

Additionally, disabled drivers may also seek car tax exemption for their vehicle, but there are specific conditions to fulfill.

Vehicle owners can only claim relief for one vehicle; if they own multiple cars, they will have to choose which one to claim for. To qualify for the exemption, individuals must receive certain government benefits.

Until April 2025, electric vehicles are exempt, after which time their owners will be required to pay the charge, as announced by Jeremy Hunt, the then-Chancellor, in 2022 to make the tax system more equitable for all motorists.

The updated car tax rules apply to all zero-emission vehicles, including battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Additionally, VED costs for newly purchased vehicles will be increased after April. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that the move was designed to "widen the differentials between zero emission, hybrid and internal combustion engine (ICE) cars".