Britain's drivers have been issued a blunt warning that Brits must stay on top of their vehicle's finances.

In a fresh alert Brits were told that they must tax their vehicle even if the figure charged is zero. The DVLA said motorists cannot assume they are exempt from tax rules simply because their car qualifies for zero-rate vehicle tax. In a post online, the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency said: "You must tax your vehicle, even if you don't have to pay anything."

The reminder is part of its ongoing "Tax it or risk it" campaign, aimed at cracking down on uninsured and untaxed vehicles on UK roads.

Why this matters

Many drivers mistakenly believe that if their vehicle is exempt - such as electric cars, historic vehicles or those in certain tax classes - they don't need to do anything.

But the DVLA is clear: you still have to go through the process of taxing it.

Failing to do so could land motorists with penalties, even if no payment was due.

How to tax your vehicle

Drivers can complete the process online using a reference number from one of the following:

• A recent DVLA reminder or warning letter


• Your V5C log book (registered in your name)


• The green 'new keeper' slip if you've just bought the vehicle

Payments - where applicable - can be made by Direct Debit or card.

Alternatively, motorists can:

• Call the DVLA's 24-hour vehicle tax service


• Visit a Post Office that handles vehicle tax

Important checks before driving

The DVLA also stresses that taxing a vehicle is just one of several legal requirements.

Motorists must also ensure:

• Their vehicle has valid insurance


• A valid MOT is in place (where required)


• Without these, you are not legally allowed to drive - regardless of tax status.

When you don't need to tax it

If your vehicle is not being used and is kept off the road - for example in a garage - you must declare it as off-road via a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

In that case, no tax is required.

Don't get caught out

The DVLA's message is simple: even "free" tax isn't automatic.

Drivers who fail to register their vehicle properly risk fines and enforcement action - a costly mistake for something that can be done in minutes online. More details are here.