Car tax and SORN check
Enter a registration to see the tax status and the current 12 month rate.
This is live DVLA status, not a guess from an advert. Tax does not transfer on sale: the new keeper must tax the car before driving it on a public road. A SORN car stays off the road except for a booked MOT.
For the amount to pay, use the car tax calculator. London emissions compliance can be checked on the London ULEZ checker. MOT and mileage sit on their own free tools if you need those next.
Car tax and SORN check FAQs
- How do I check if a car is taxed in the UK for free?
- Enter the number plate above. Caroat checks live DVLA records to show whether the car is taxed, untaxed, or declared SORN, along with the exact tax expiration date.
- Does road tax transfer to the new owner when buying a car?
- No. Since October 2014, vehicle road tax does not transfer between owners. The seller receives an automatic refund for remaining full months, and the buyer must tax the vehicle before driving it on public roads.
- What is a SORN and how does it affect driving?
- A SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) registers a vehicle as off public roads with DVLA. An untaxed, SORN-declared vehicle cannot legally be parked or driven on public roads, except when driving directly to a pre-booked MOT test.
- What is the penalty for driving an untaxed car?
- Driving or keeping an untaxed vehicle on a public highway can result in an automatic £80 late licensing penalty, court fines up to £1,000, wheel clamping, and vehicle impoundment.
- How can I calculate how much road tax I need to pay?
- Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) depends on registration date, fuel type, engine size, and CO2 emissions. Use our dedicated Car Tax Calculator to view the 12-month and 6-month amounts.