Say ‘Ta ta’ to the tax disc

30 September 2014  

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Will people rush to their cars to remove their disc tomorrow? I think it’s unlikely for two reasons. The long-established routine of obtaining tax discs at the last minute from the post office, or online for the internet-savvy, and selling them on with a car, is so ingrained in the motoring part of our psyche that it’s going to take some time to sink in and feel brave enough to drive the streets without one in the window for fear of being caught out. Secondly, the DVLA hasn’t promoted the change to any great extent.

The Freight Transport Association has stepped up to the mark on the eve of the changeover to reassure motorists that it shouldn’t cause any problems but people should be aware of what now happens when you sell a vehicle and transfer vehicle tax.

Ian Gallagher, FTA’s lead on Driver Licensing and Vehicle Registration, said: “It is imperative that vehicle keepers and potential new vehicle owners are aware that from the 1st of October vehicle tax will no longer be transferable when a vehicle is sold or transferred. The new keeper must purchase tax for the vehicle if they wish to take it onto a public road and the old keeper will automatically receive a refund on any outstanding full months.”

The DVLA will continue to send vehicle owners a renewal reminder and they will be able to tax the vehicle either electronically, online or at a Post Office.

Motorists who fail to comply with the new system could face a £1,000 fine.

nicola@aftermarket.co.uk