The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a crucial alert to approximately eight million motorists across the United Kingdom, warning them of impending increases to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), commonly known as car tax, scheduled for this spring. This significant communication comes as part of a broader initiative to inform drivers about changes that will affect their vehicle-related expenses from April 1, 2026.
Understanding the Vehicle Excise Duty Increase
In a recent announcement, Labour Party Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that new car tax rates will be implemented in April, following commitments made in the Autumn Budget last year. The government has decided to uprate VED for cars, vans, and motorcycles in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI) inflation, a move that will impact millions of vehicle owners nationwide. This adjustment is part of ongoing fiscal policies aimed at aligning taxation with economic indicators.
How Drivers Will Receive Notification
Eight million drivers who have signed up for the new Driver and Vehicles account will receive detailed information about their specific VED increases directly through this digital platform. The DVLA has been actively promoting this account on social media, including a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting its benefits for motorists. The agency emphasised that the account provides a quick and secure way to access driver and vehicle details in one convenient location.
Benefits of the Driver and Vehicles Account
The Driver and Vehicles account is designed to be user-friendly and secure, with a sign-up process that takes approximately five minutes. Once registered, motorists can log in using their email and password to access a range of features. These include viewing driving licence information, such as endorsements and penalty points, and checking vehicles registered to them, including tax and MOT status. Additionally, users can manage their contact preferences, opting for vehicle tax reminders via email or, for the first time, SMS text messages, while also choosing to stop receiving postal reminders.
Full List of 2026/27 Vehicle Excise Duty Band Standard Rates
Below is the comprehensive list of VED band standard rates that will come into effect from April 2026, based on CO2 emissions:
- Band A (100g/km CO2) - £20
- Band B (101 - 110 g/km CO2) - £20
- Band C (111 - 120 g/km CO2) - £35
- Band D (121 - 130 g/km CO2) - £170
- Band E (131 - 140 g/km CO2) - £200
- Band F (141 - 150 g/km CO2) - £225
- Band G (151 - 165 g/km CO2) - £275
- Band H (166 - 175 g/km CO2) - £325
- Band I (176 - 185 g/km CO2) - £360
- Band J (186 - 200 g/km CO2) - £410
- Band K (201 - 225 g/km CO2) - £445
- Band L (226 - 255 g/km CO2) - £760
- Band M (Over 255g/km of CO2) - £790
DVLA's Perspective on the New Service
Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, commented on the launch of the Driver and Vehicles account, stating, "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." This approach reflects the agency's commitment to improving digital services for drivers while ensuring transparency and engagement.
As the April deadline approaches, the DVLA's warning serves as a timely reminder for motorists to stay informed about their tax obligations and consider signing up for the Driver and Vehicles account to manage their vehicle details efficiently. This proactive communication aims to reduce confusion and help drivers prepare for the upcoming financial changes.
