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Step-by-step: taxing your car online
1Find your reference number. This is the 11-digit number on your V5C logbook, the green new-keeper slip (V5C/2), or your V11 renewal reminder.
2Go to gov.uk/vehicle-tax. This is the only official route — third-party "vehicle tax" sites often charge unnecessary fees.
3Confirm your MOT is valid. DVLA checks this automatically; if your MOT has lapsed, you'll need to book a test before you can tax the car (unless it's exempt, e.g. brand new).
4Pay. Pay in full by debit/credit card, or spread the cost with Direct Debit (monthly, 6-monthly, or annual — a 5% surcharge applies to non-annual payments).
5You're taxed immediately. There's no physical tax disc any more — your vehicle is recorded as taxed on DVLA's database the moment payment goes through.
What you'll need
A V5C logbook reference, V5C/2 new keeper slip, or V11 reminder number; a valid MOT (unless your car is exempt); valid insurance (checked automatically via the Motor Insurance Database); and a payment method for the fee.
No V5C? You can still tax your car
If you've lost or never received your V5C, you can tax your vehicle in person at a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax, using form V62 to apply for a new logbook at the same time. This costs an extra £25 on top of your vehicle tax and takes longer than the instant online process, so it's worth ordering a replacement V5C in advance if you're not in a rush.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I tax my car online?
Go to gov.uk/vehicle-tax with your V5C reference number (or the 11-digit reference from your V11 reminder), pay by debit/credit card or set up a Direct Debit, and your tax starts immediately. You'll also need a valid MOT if your car is over 3 years old.
What do I need to tax my car?
You need the reference number from your V5C logbook, V5C/2 new keeper slip, or V11 reminder letter, plus a valid MOT certificate (unless exempt) and valid insurance, which DVLA checks automatically.
How much does it cost to tax my car?
Cost depends on your vehicle's CO2 emissions (first year) and fuel type (standard rate after year one). Most petrol and diesel cars registered after April 2017 pay a flat standard rate; electric vehicles now also pay VED from April 2025.
Can I tax my car without a V5C?
Yes — if you've lost your V5C, you can still tax your car at a Post Office using form V62, though this costs an extra £25 and takes longer to process than the online DVLA method.
When does car tax need to be renewed?
Car tax is due for renewal every 6 or 12 months depending on how you pay. DVLA sends a V11 reminder letter shortly before your tax expires — you can also check your current tax status instantly using our free checker.
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