Is My Car Taxed? How to Check Your Car Tax for Free

Updated 20 March 2025 | Published on 14 November 2022

Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) is enforced by the DVLA, and failing to pay it can result in a fine of up to £1,000. Fortunately, checking whether your vehicle is taxed is quick, easy, and free using the Government’s online vehicle tax checker.

How to Check Your Vehicle Tax Status

You can check if your car is taxed in just a few steps:

1. Visit the Government’s vehicle tax checker.
2. Enter the registration number of the vehicle you want to check.
3. Review the car details displayed on the screen and confirm they are correct.
4. Click ‘Continue’ to view the tax status.

You will then see a screen displaying key details about the vehicle, including:

• Tax due date – shown in a green box on the left.
• MOT expiry date – displayed in a green box on the right.

If your tax is due soon, make sure you renew it on time to avoid fines or penalties.

Vehicles Exempt from Road Tax

Some vehicles are exempt from paying road tax, but they must still be registered for tax with the DVLA. The following categories qualify for exemption:

• Historic vehicles – Cars built before 1 January 1982 are exempt.
• Electric vehicles – Fully electric cars that draw power from an external source or an onboard battery (not connected to a power source while moving) are exempt.
• Vehicles used by disabled people – If you’re a disabled driver, you can apply for a disability exemption.
• Disabled passenger vehicles – Vehicles operated by organisations providing transport for disabled people, excluding ambulances, qualify for exemption.

Why It’s Important to Check Your Car Tax

Driving an untaxed vehicle on public roads (unless exempt) is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. The DVLA uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect untaxed vehicles, and enforcement officers regularly check records.

By checking your car tax status online, you can ensure you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary fines. If your tax has expired, renew it immediately through the DVLA website.