DVLA warning - take action or risk £1,000 fine or car seizure

Motorists are being warned in stark terms to ensure their vehicles are taxed - or face fines of up to £1,000, penalty points, or even having their cars seized.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) issued the blunt message in a social media post, declaring simply: "Don't risk it. Tax it." The agency stressed the consequences for those who ignore the legal obligation to tax their vehicle, with enforcement teams clamping down on untaxed cars across the UK.

The warning applies to all vehicle owners, including those who believe they are exempt from paying.

A DVLA spokesperson said: "You must tax your vehicle even if you do not have to pay anything, for example if you're exempt because you're disabled."

Drivers are urged to use one of several valid reference numbers when taxing a vehicle - including a recent reminder letter, the vehicle log book (V5C) in their name, or the green 'new keeper' slip from a log book if they have just bought the car. If none of these are available, motorists must apply for a new log book and can tax the vehicle simultaneously.

The DVLA is clear: failure to comply is a criminal offence. In addition to fines, untaxed vehicles can be clamped or impounded. Enforcement is now aided by automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, making it easier for authorities to detect vehicles that are not on the road legally.

The process is relatively straightforward. Taxing can be done online, by phone, or at participating Post Offices. Drivers can pay using debit or credit card, or set up a Direct Debit - although the latter option isn't available over the phone.

"You'll need to meet all the legal obligations for drivers before you can drive," the DVLA added.

In Northern Ireland, additional documents are required when taxing a vehicle at a Post Office, including a paper copy of an insurance certificate and either an original MOT test certificate or proof of a Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC).

If a vehicle is off the road and being kept in a garage, owners must officially declare a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) - otherwise, tax is still required.

For disabled motorists or those taking over a vehicle that was previously used by a disabled person, a change in tax class may be necessary. These changes can only be made at a Post Office.

The DVLA's vehicle tax helpline is available 24 hours a day on 0300 123 4321, and the online service, which can be found is also offered in Welsh (Cymraeg).