DVLA Unveils New Online Service

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has introduced a game-changing service to make vehicle tax more accessible for UK private and motor trade drivers.

Under this new system, motorists can now tax their vehicles even if they’ve misplaced essential documents like the V5C (log book) or the vehicle tax reminder letter (V11). Previously, losing these documents meant waiting for a replacement V5C or contacting the DVLA to proceed with taxing a vehicle.

This new service allows drivers to apply for a replacement V5C and pay their car tax simultaneously via the DVLA’s online portal. As long as the vehicle owners’ details do not change, the process is straightforward, and tax payments are approved instantly.

Although the V5C will still be sent by post, the digital transformation significantly reduces waiting times and streamlines the process. This update follows last year’s DVLA initiative enabling digital vehicle tax reminders, which replaced traditional paper reminders with email and SMS notifications.

These changes are part of the DVLA’s Driver and Vehicles Account Service, which offers an easy platform for drivers to use, once registered, users can:

View their driving licence details, including endorsements and penalty points.Check the tax and MOT status of vehicles registered to them.Update contact preferences and set up email or text reminders for vehicle tax.Opt out of paper reminders to save time and resources.

DVLA Chief Executive, Julie Lennard, said: “We are always looking for ways to improve our digital services to provide more convenience for motorists. This latest enhancement will enable customers who have misplaced or lost their V5C to get a replacement and tax their vehicle quickly and easily.”

Rising Vehicle Costs

In April, UK drivers began feeling the effects of increased Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rates. The price hikes, which align with the latest Retail Price Index (RPI), meant most motorists faced higher car tax rates, adding to the strain of the ongoing cost of living.

With petrol and diesel prices hitting record levels, saving on vehicle costs has never been more important.

Maintaining tyres is a way drivers can make savings. Ongoing tyre maintenance extends their lifespan, improves safety, and prevents costly replacements from your local or mobile tyre fitter.

An annual MOT ensures vehicles over three years old are safe and legal. While the test itself is capped at a government rate, repair costs for failed checks can escalate quickly. Prepare for your MOT by addressing potential issues such as brakes or faulty lights, this can save you money on repairs with your garage mechanic.

Servicing your vehicle annually or every 10,000 miles should help keep it in top condition. Be on the lookout for signs that you might need a service, such as warning lights, unusual noises or performance issues.

Private or motor trade fully comprehensive insurance not only covers your vehicle but also provides financial protection in case of accidents. Driving without a valid insurance policy is illegal and can result in penalties, vehicle impoundment, or even prosecution.

For vehicles not in use, you can declare them off-road by using a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN).