When Is My Car Tax Due?

Quick Answer — When Is My Car Tax Due?

Your car tax due date is specific to your vehicle. You can find the exact expiry date using the DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool, your V11 renewal letter, DVLA email or text reminders, or your V5C logbook. Missing a renewal can lead to fines or your car being clamped.

Key Car Tax Definitions

• Tax Expiry Date: the date your VED ends and must be renewed
• V11 Renewal Letter: a DVLA notice sent before tax is due
• Vehicle Tax Reminder Service: DVLA email/text alerts

Car tax is really important, and making sure your car is taxed is key. We've looked at all things car tax in a seperate blog.

If you don’t pay your car tax and are caught on the UK roads, you could face fines and even have your car clamped. We’ve covered car tax and what you could expect to pay in a separate piece.

When Is My Car Tax Due?

Summary: Your car tax due date is unique to your vehicle and can be checked using the DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool, your V11 reminder, or your V5C logbook.

Your car tax due date is specific to your vehicle. You can find the exact due date using the DVLA’s online “Check Vehicle Tax” service, the renewal reminder letter (V11), email or text reminders, or the date shown on your V5C logbook. 

How To Check Your Car Tax Expiry Date

Summary: The DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool shows your tax status and exact expiry date using only your registration number.

Use the DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool on GOV.UK to find out if your car is taxed and when your tax is due.
• Enter your registration number
• Confirm the vehicle
• View your tax status, expiry date and MOT details
The service is free and gives the official renewal date for your vehicle.

Where To Find Your Car Tax Due Date

How To Tax Your Car

Summary: You can tax your car online via the DVLA or at a participating Post Office using a V11 reminder, V5C logbook, or new keeper slip.

You can renew your vehicle tax online using the DVLA service on GOV.UK. You’ll need one of the following:
• V11 vehicle tax reminder letter
• V5C logbook
• New keeper slip
You can also tax your car at a Post Office that handles vehicle tax. Some vehicles may require a valid MOT certificate before payment, though.

DVLA Car Tax Reminder Services

Summary: The DVLA sends car tax renewal reminders by post, email, or text to help you keep track of your renewal date.

The DVLA now provides a vehicle tax reminder service that can be received digitally straight away, without needing to wait for a letter. This can be a fantastic way to stay on top of your vehicle tax. The DVLA’s car tax reminder service is free to use and requires some simple personal details to provide a personalised reminder service.

DVLA Reminder Types

• V11 renewal letter — sent by post.
• Email reminders — sent via your DVLA driver account.
• Text reminders — optional alerts to avoid missing your due date.

Conclusion

Missing a car tax payment can happen, but trying to avoid this is key. The reminder service provided by the DVLA is a great tool to use, as is GOV.UK’s car tax checker. If you are unsure of whether your car is taxed, take five minutes to either sign up for reminders or complete the tax check form and get a quick update on your car tax.

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FAQs

Is there a universal car tax due date?

No. Your due date depends on your individual vehicle and registration cycle.

Does the DVLA tell me when my tax is due?

Yes. You’ll get a V11 letter and can also sign up for email or text reminders.

How do I check my car tax expiry date?

Use the DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool on GOV.UK.

Is car tax due on the same date for everyone?

No. Car tax renewal dates are vehicle-specific and depend on your individual registration cycle, so each car has its own tax expiry date.

How can I check the exact tax renewal date?

You can find your exact car tax renewal date by using the DVLA “Check Vehicle Tax” tool on GOV.UK, which shows your tax status and expiry date using your registration number.

Will the DVLA send me a reminder when my car tax is due?

Yes. The DVLA sends digital reminders by email or text if you sign up for its reminder service, helping you avoid missing your renewal date.

Will I get a letter when my car tax is due?

Yes. The DVLA usually sends a V11 renewal letter by post about three weeks before your car tax is due.