Cars & Transport guide

Tax your vehicle and keep your V5C up to date

Tax a vehicle correctly, set up renewals, and keep your V5C log book details right with the DVLA when you move, buy, sell or change your car.

Estimated time: 20–30 minutesUpdated: 28 September 2026

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

  1. 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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