The DVLA has announced changes to car tax reminders and drivers are being urged to check and make choices as a result. A new system means motorists will be sent reminders that their tax is coming up for renewal via text or email.
Paper reminders will still be available, or people can opt out altogether. Motorists are being asked to get involved to test the new system.
The DVLA wrote on Twitter earlier this week: "We’ve launched our driver and vehicles account where you can opt for digital vehicle tax reminders and access your driving licence and vehicle details all in one place."
The account on the DVLA website will also store other licence information such as penalty points and is the latest move by the DVLA to bring its services online. Other features that will be added to the account in the future are provisional licence applications and a ten-year licence renewal, reports the Express.
Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive said: “We are asking motorists to help us test the service. It’s free, and simple to sign up for an account. This new service is being developed and we will be adding more features, but we want to give customers access as early as possible so they can try it out and let us have their feedback.”
The RAC claims that the DVLA runs monthly computer checks of all vehicles registered in the UK. The new tool could help target the 700,000-plus drivers who are thought to be evading car tax in the UK. To sign up for a new online account, drivers only need to provide their email address and personal details and verify their identity with a passport.
Those logging on will also need a GB driving licence or national insurance number to use the service. However, motorists who have chosen to tax their vehicle by Direct Debit do not need to sign up to receive a digital V11 reminder letter. Instead these direct debits will renew automatically as long as their model has a valid MOT in place.
Drivers who fail to renew their car tax could potentially lose thousands of pounds. Road users who fail to pay their tax charges will be issued a fine of £80 sent to their address.
Offenders will have 50% of the fine reduced if a charge is finally paid within 28 days. However, those who continue to refuse payment could be prosecuted with fines then rising to £1,000.
The DVLA also has the power to impound cars until the correct tax has been paid. You can apply for a driver and vehicles account on the DVLA website here.
The above information is from https://www.msn.com/ Drivers urged to act as DVLA announces car tax changes (msn.com)