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Guide
Understanding Car Tax (VED)
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), commonly known as road tax or car tax, is a tax that must be paid for most vehicles driven or parked on public roads in the United Kingdom. The amount you pay depends on when your car was registered and its CO2 emissions.
Since 2017, the system has become more complex, with different rules for new cars (First Year Rate) versus older cars (Standard Rate), and additional surcharges for vehicles with a list price over £40,000.
When is Tax Due?
Tax is paid annually or every 6 months. It is not transferable when you sell the car; the seller gets a refund and the buyer must tax it immediately.
How is it Calculated?
For cars registered after April 2017, the first year rate is based on CO2. After that, it's a flat rate (currently £190/year for petrol/diesel).
SORN (Off Road)
If you aren't using your car, you can declare it 'off road' with a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) to stop paying tax legally.
- New Rules April 2025
Electric Vehicle Tax Changes
From 1 April 2025, drivers of electric and low-emission cars, vans and motorcycles will need to pay vehicle tax in the same way as drivers of petrol and diesel vehicles.
- Zero-emission cars will move to the lowest annual rate (currently £20).
- They will also be liable for the 'Expensive Car Supplement' if the list price exceeds £40,000.
The "Luxury" Tax
Expensive Car Supplement
Vehicles with a list price of over £40,000 must pay an extra surcharge (currently £410/year) for 5 years, starting from the second time the vehicle is taxed.
- This applies to many new EVs
Untaxed Car?
Read our guide on how to scrap a car that has no tax or MOT.
Go Green
High emissions? Scrapping your old car helps the environment.
Happy Customers
See how we helped others scrap their expensive-to-run cars.
- Car Tax FAQ
Do I get a refund on tax if I scrap my car?
Yes! When you scrap a car at an ATF, you must notify the DVLA using the yellow slip (V5C/3). Once processed, the DVLA will automatically send a cheque for any full remaining months of tax.
Can I drive a car to the scrap yard without tax?
No. You cannot drive a vehicle on public roads without tax, even if you are driving it to be scrapped. You must arrange for it to be collected on a truck.
What is the fine for no tax?
The DVLA carries out monthly checks of their database. If your car is untaxed and not SORN, you will receive an £80 fine automatically, which can rise to £1,000 if unpaid.
How do I check if a car is SORN?
You can use our tool above or the official DVLA website. If the status says 'SORN', the vehicle cannot be on a public road.
Too expensive to run?
If your car tax, insurance, and repairs are costing more than the car is worth, it might be time to scrap it.