Free Car Tax Check
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SampleReal-time DVLA tax status for any UK vehicle — see if it's taxed, SORN, or due. Plus VED band and annual cost. Free, instant, no signup.
- Real-time DVLA status — taxed, SORN or untaxed
- Annual VED rate based on CO₂ band and registration year
- Free email reminders 28 + 7 days before your next MOT
Free Car Tax Check
Set free MOT reminder →Real-time DVLA tax status for any UK vehicle — see if it's taxed, SORN, or due. Plus VED band and annual cost. Free, instant, no signup.
- Real-time DVLA status — taxed, SORN or untaxed
- Annual VED rate based on CO₂ band and registration year
- Free email reminders 28 + 7 days before your next MOT
SampleCheck your vehicle's tax status
Enter any UK reg plate to see current tax status, VED band, and MOT expiry — free and instant.
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Driving without a valid MOT can mean a fine of up to £1,000.
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£195/yr
Standard VED rate
£80
Untaxed penalty
£1,000
Max court fine
What is a car tax check?
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) — road tax — is required for any vehicle used or parked on public roads. A check shows current status: taxed, expired, or SORN'd (off-road).
The physical tax disc went in October 2014, so online is the only way to confirm. You also get CO₂, fuel type, and the VED band. For the full spec, see our car check.
How is road tax calculated?
Three regimes depending on when the car was first registered:
Pre-Apr 2017
CO₂-banded A–M. £0 for Band A, up to £600+ for the highest.
Apr 2017+
First year CO₂-based. Then £195/yr flat. £40k+ cars pay £620/yr in years 2–6.
Electric
£0 if registered pre-April 2025. New EVs from Apr 2025 pay the standard rate.
Rates change each Budget. See your reg's CO₂ + fuel type to confirm the band.
What does SORN mean?
Statutory Off Road Notification — the car's off the public road. Once SORN'd, it can't be driven or parked on public roads. Stays in place until taxed, sold, scrapped, or exported.
Buying a SORN'd car? Tax it before driving away. It also needs insurance and a valid MOT (if 3+ years old). More in our SORN guide.
What happens if you don't tax your car?
Automatic £80 penalty (£40 if paid within 28 days). Up to £1,000 if it goes to court.
The DVLA can also clamp, impound, or crush untaxed vehicles. ANPR enforcement is largely automated. If you're not using the car, declare a SORN — free, online at GOV.UK or by phone (0300 123 4321).
Save money on your MOT
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Frequently asked questions
How do I tax my car?
Can I drive a SORN'd car to an MOT?
Do electric cars need road tax?
What happens if I buy a car that isn't taxed?
How much is road tax for my car?
Related guides
How to Tax a Car Online
Step-by-step guide to taxing your car with the DVLA, what you need, and what it costs.
Cheapest Cars to Tax in the UK
Which vehicles pay zero or low road tax, how VED bands work, and how to check.
How to SORN a Car Online
When you need a SORN and how to declare one — a quick step-by-step guide.
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