In the UK, it is mandatory to tax every car registered, regardless of how much it is driven. To tax a car, you will need a reference number from a vehicle tax reminder or a log book. Payment can be made online using a debit or credit card or by setting up a Direct Debit. It is important to meet all legal obligations before driving, even if you are exempt from paying tax due to disability. Other methods of tax application include phone and Post Office.
Taxing a car can be a straightforward process when you know the steps involved. Whether it’s vehicle tax renewal, road tax online, or simply using a car tax calculator, understanding the options available is crucial to ensure compliance with the law.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the different methods to tax your car in the UK, explore online and offline options, discuss tax bands and rates, exemptions, and even provide tips for buying and taxing a car. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to navigate the car tax process.
How to Tax a Car Online?
Taxing your car online is a convenient and efficient way to ensure your vehicle remains road-legal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tax a car online in the UK.
Gather the Required Information
Before you begin the online tax application process, make sure you have the necessary information at hand. You will need a reference number from a vehicle tax reminder or a log book.
Visit the GOV.UK Website
To tax your car online, go to the official GOV.UK website. This site provides a simple and secure platform for car tax payments.
| STEP 1 | STEP 2 | STEP 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Process | Enter the Reference Number | Choose Payment Method | Confirm Details |
| Description | Enter the reference number from your vehicle tax reminder or log book. This will help the system identify your vehicle and provide the necessary information for the tax application. | Select your preferred payment method. The GOV.UK website accepts various debit and credit cards for tax payments. | Review and confirm the details of your tax application. Make sure all the information provided is accurate before finalizing the payment. |
Once you have completed these steps, you will receive a confirmation that your car tax payment has been processed successfully. You can then drive your car immediately, as the tax is applied instantly.
Advance Tax Payments
If desired, you can also tax your car up to 2 months in advance. This option allows you to ensure your vehicle remains taxed without having to worry about renewing it on a monthly basis.
By following these simple steps, you can easily tax your car online and fulfill your legal obligations as a vehicle owner in the UK.
How to Tax a Car at the Post Office?
If you prefer to tax your car in person, you can do so at a Post Office branch that deals with vehicle tax. By visiting the Post Office, you can ensure a smooth and efficient tax disc renewal process. Here’s what you need to know:
What to bring
When heading to the Post Office, make sure you have the following items:
- Payment for your vehicle tax
- Bank or building society account details if you want to set up a Direct Debit
- Your vehicle log book (V5C) or the green ‘new keeper’ slip if you have just bought the car
- Evidence of a valid MOT, if required
Having these documents with you will streamline the tax renewal process and ensure a hassle-free experience.
The tax renewal process
Upon arrival at the Post Office, you can proceed with the tax disc renewal. The staff will guide you through the necessary steps to complete the process successfully. You will be asked to provide the required documents, make the payment, and confirm your details. Once everything is verified, your vehicle tax will be renewed, and you can drive your car immediately. It couldn’t be easier!
Remember, the Post Office is there to assist you in any way possible, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if needed. They are well-equipped to handle vehicle tax requirements and provide reliable service.
Tax disc renewal at the Post Office
Tax disc renewal is a straightforward process at the Post Office. You can ensure your vehicle is road-legal by visiting a branch that deals with vehicle tax. With their expertise and resources, you can confidently complete your tax renewal and be on your way.
The image above depicts the process of tax disc renewal at the Post Office. It showcases the convenience and efficiency of renewing your car tax in person. By visiting the Post Office, you can handle the necessary paperwork and payment, ensuring your car remains legal on the road.
How to Tax a Car by Phone?
If you prefer the convenience of paying for your car tax by phone, you can contact the DVLA vehicle tax service at 0300 123 4321. It’s important to have your V5C or V5C/2 document ready when making the call. The payment for your car tax can be made using a debit or credit card.
When contacting the DVLA by phone, remember that you cannot set up a Direct Debit for car tax payments. However, the phone option provides a quick and straightforward way to pay your car tax, especially if you’re unable to use online or in-person methods.
How to Tax a Car by Phone – Step by Step:
- Gather your V5C or V5C/2 document, as you will need this information to complete the car tax payment.
- Contact the DVLA vehicle tax service at 0300 123 4321.
- Follow the prompts provided by the DVLA to make your car tax payment using a debit or credit card.
- Confirm the details of your payment and any other required information during the call.
- Once the payment is processed, your car tax will be valid, and you can drive your vehicle legally on the road.
Remember, paying your car tax by phone offers a convenient alternative to other methods, allowing you to fulfill your legal responsibilities and keep your vehicle taxed without hassle.
Tax Bands and Rates Explained
When it comes to car tax in the UK, the rates are determined based on the vehicle’s CO2 emissions and fuel type. The government has categorized cars into different tax bands, depending on when they were registered.
Cars Registered Before 1st March 2001:
For cars registered before 1st March 2001, the car tax rates are based on engine size. Smaller engine cars generally fall into lower tax bands, while larger engine cars are subject to higher rates.
Cars Registered Between 1st March 2001 and 31st March 2017:
From 1st March 2001 to 31st March 2017, car tax rates were based on CO2 emissions. The lower the emissions, the lower the tax band. This was an effort to incentivize greener cars with lower emissions.
Cars Registered Between 1st April 2017 and 31st March 2025:
From 1st April 2017 to 31st March 2025, car tax rates continued to be based on CO2 emissions. However, there were changes in the tax bands, resulting in higher rates for some vehicles.
Cars Registered on or After 1st April 2025:
From 1st April 2025 onwards, car tax rates will be based on a new system called the “Vehicle Excise Duty” (VED). The rates will still be determined by CO2 emissions, but there will be additional charges for vehicles with a list price over £40,000. This new system aims to encourage the adoption of low-emission vehicles.
It is important to note that the rates within each tax band can vary. Zero-emission electric vehicles are exempt from car tax, while higher-emission vehicles are subject to higher rates. To find out the specific tax band and rate for a particular car, you can use the government’s online car tax calculator.
Car Tax Bands
| Tax Band | CO2 Emissions (g/km) | First-Year Rate | Standard Rate (2021-2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 0 | £0 | £0 |
| B | 1-50 | £0 | £155 |
| C | 51-75 | £10 | £155 |
| D | 76-90 | £30 | £155 |
| E | 91-100 | £40 | £155 |
| F | 101-110 | £50 | £155 |
| G | 111-130 | £65 | £155 |
| H | 131-150 | £85 | £155 |
| I | 151-170 | £110 | £155 |
| J | 171-190 | £135 | £155 |
| K | 191-225 | £155 | £155 |
| L | 226-255 | £210 | £155 |
| M | Over 255 | £555 | £155 |
These rates are for the 2021-2022 tax year and may be subject to change. It is always advisable to check the latest rates and bands on the official government website or consult a professional for accurate information.
Vehicle Tax Exemptions
If you’re wondering, “Is my car taxed?” it’s important to know that some vehicles are exempt from paying car tax in the UK. This includes:
- Historic vehicles
- Certain recipients of disability benefits
- Vehicles with a valid Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN)
If you believe your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, you can easily check its tax status online using the government’s vehicle enquiry service. This service allows you to verify whether your car is taxed or not. If your vehicle is indeed exempt from paying car tax, you have the option to cancel your car tax and declare it as off the road.
Cancelling your car tax means that you won’t have to pay the tax for the duration of the exemption. However, it’s important to note that if your vehicle’s tax status changes and it is no longer exempt, you must tax it again before driving it on public roads.
By understanding the exemptions and staying up-to-date with your vehicle’s tax status, you can ensure compliance with the law and avoid any penalties for non-payment of car tax.
Buying and Taxing a Car
When purchasing a new car from a dealership, the process of taxing the vehicle is typically straightforward. The tax is usually included in the purchase price, and the dealer takes care of the car tax on your behalf. This makes the process seamless and hassle-free.
If you decide to buy a used car from a dealer, they may also handle the tax requirements for you. It’s always a good idea to confirm this with the dealer during the purchasing process.
However, if you are buying a car from a private seller, it’s important to understand the steps you need to take to ensure the vehicle is properly taxed. Firstly, you must inform the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) about the change of ownership. This can be done online through the DVLA’s website or by filling out a V5C logbook and mailing it to the DVLA.
To tax the car, you will need the necessary documents. This includes the V5C logbook, which serves as proof of ownership, or the green ‘new keeper’ slip if you have just purchased the vehicle. These documents are essential for taxation purposes.
Once you have obtained the required documents, you can proceed with the tax renewal process. In the UK, there are several convenient methods available for renewing your car tax.
Renewing Car Tax Online
If you prefer the convenience of online transactions, you can renew your car tax online through the GOV.UK website. Simply visit the website, enter the necessary information, and make the payment using a debit or credit card. Once the tax is renewed, you will receive a digital tax disc, which serves as proof of payment. It’s important to note that if you choose this method, you can renew your car tax up to 2 months in advance.
Renewing Car Tax by Phone
Another option for renewing your car tax is by phone. To do this, you can contact the DVLA vehicle tax service at 0300 123 4321. Make sure to have your V5C or V5C/2 document ready when making the call. The payment can be made using a debit or credit card over the phone. This method is convenient for those who prefer speaking to a representative directly.
Taxing a Car at the Post Office
If you prefer to handle the tax renewal process in person, you can visit a Post Office branch that deals with vehicle tax. Bring the necessary payment for your car tax, along with your bank or building society account details if you want to set up a Direct Debit. Additionally, you will need to present the V5C logbook or the green ‘new keeper’ slip as proof of ownership. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need to show evidence of a valid MOT. Once the tax renewal process is complete, you will receive a new tax disc, enabling you to drive your car legally.
Methods for Renewing Car Tax
| Method | Key Steps | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Online | 1. Visit GOV.UK website 2. Enter vehicle information 3. Make payment 4. Receive digital tax disc |
– Convenience of online renewal – Can be done up to 2 months in advance |
| Phone | 1. Call DVLA vehicle tax service 2. Provide V5C or V5C/2 document 3. Make payment over the phone |
– Personalized assistance from a representative – Debit or credit card payment option |
| Post Office | 1. Visit Post Office branch 2. Bring payment and bank/building society account details (for Direct Debit) 3. Present V5C logbook or green ‘new keeper’ slip 4. Receive new tax disc |
– In-person assistance – Ability to set up Direct Debit |
By following these steps and utilizing the available methods, you can ensure that your newly purchased car is properly taxed and road legal. Whether you choose to handle the tax renewal online, by phone, or through a visit to the Post Office, the process can be completed efficiently and conveniently.
Remember, adhering to the tax requirements is important to avoid any penalties or legal issues. So, take the necessary steps to tax your car after purchase and enjoy a worry-free driving experience.
Conclusion
Taxing a car in the UK is a legal requirement for all registered vehicles. Whether you choose to do it online, by phone, or at the Post Office, the process is straightforward and can be completed quickly and conveniently. The rates for car tax vary based on the vehicle’s CO2 emissions and fuel type, ensuring that environmentally friendly cars are rewarded. However, some vehicles may be exempt from paying car tax, such as historic vehicles and those owned by certain recipients of disability benefits. It is crucial to understand the process and have the necessary documents when buying and taxing a car to avoid any penalties for non-compliance. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car remains road-legal and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
FAQs
How much is car tax?
Car tax rates in the UK are determined by the vehicle’s CO2 emissions and fuel type. Rates vary depending on the band and can range from zero for electric vehicles to higher amounts for higher emissions.
Is my car taxed?
You can check the tax status of your vehicle online using the government’s vehicle enquiry service. Some vehicles may be exempt from paying car tax, such as historic vehicles, certain recipients of disability benefits, and vehicles with a valid Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). If your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, you can cancel your car tax and declare it as off the road.
What documents do I need to tax my car?
To tax your car, you will need a reference number from a vehicle tax reminder or a log book. If you are taxing your car at the Post Office, you will also need your vehicle log book (V5C) or the green ‘new keeper’ slip if you have just bought the car. In some cases, you may need to show evidence of a valid MOT.
How do I renew my car tax online?
To renew your car tax online, visit the GOV.UK website, enter the reference number from a vehicle tax reminder or a log book, choose your payment method, and confirm the details. Once the tax is paid, you can drive your car immediately.