CURRENT VEHICLE STATUS
Check whether a vehicle is taxed or registered SORN before you buy. Then make your own tax arrangements when it becomes yours.
Car Check
Our registration lookup is paused while the service is prepared. The guides and official links below are available now.
CHECK THE STATUS
Know what the record means.
The official DVLA service shows the current tax status. It is a useful detail, but it does not tell you the full history of a car.
Currently taxed
Check the status through GOV.UK. The seller’s tax does not transfer to a new keeper.
Off the road
A SORN means the vehicle has been declared off the public road. Ask why and how long it has been stored.
Buying the car
Arrange tax in your own name before driving. Check MOT and insurance requirements too.
BUYING A USED CAR
Tax is only one detail.
A taxed car can still have unresolved MOT advisories, finance or damage questions. Compare its registration details and paperwork before agreeing to buy.
01 Check the current tax status
02 Check MOT history
03 Tax it when you become keeper
THE DETAILS
Car tax questions.
Does the seller’s tax transfer to me?
No. Vehicle tax does not transfer when a vehicle is sold. Arrange your own tax before using it on the road.
Can I check tax by registration?
Yes. The GOV.UK service lets you check the current tax status using the registration number.
Does a taxed status prove the car is insured?
No. Tax status is separate from insurance. Make sure you have appropriate insurance before driving.