Use this guide when you buy a car, receive a tax reminder, move house or sell a vehicle. Have your V5C log book, V11 reminder or new keeper slip to hand, plus your bank details if paying by Direct Debit.
Step by step
Check the vehicle's tax status
Use the DVLA vehicle enquiry service on GOV.UK to check when tax and MOT run out. Most vehicles must be taxed to be used or kept on a public road, even if the tax rate is zero. Vehicles kept off the road need a SORN instead.
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