How is UK car tax calculated?

First year tax is based on CO2 emissions. From year 2 onwards, most cars pay the standard flat rate (£190 for 2025/26). Cars with a list price over £40,000 pay an additional £410 premium supplement for 5 years.

Do electric cars pay road tax?

Pure electric vehicles (BEVs) registered before April 2025 pay zero VED. From April 2025, newly registered EVs will pay a reduced first-year rate and then the standard rate.

What is the premium supplement?

Cars with a list price (including options) over £40,000 when new pay an additional £410 per year on top of the standard rate, for the first 5 years from the date of first registration.

Can I pay road tax monthly?

Yes, you can pay by direct debit monthly or every 6 months, but there is a 5% surcharge compared to paying annually. Monthly payments are convenient for budgeting but cost slightly more over the year.

What happens if I do not tax my car?

Driving an untaxed vehicle is illegal and can result in a £1,000 fine. The DVLA uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect untaxed vehicles. Your car can be clamped, impounded, and eventually crushed if the tax is not paid.

CarCalcs

Car Tax Calculator

Estimate UK vehicle excise duty (road tax) based on CO2 emissions.

CO2 Emissions

Fuel Type

List Price When New

Including options, for premium surcharge check

How We Calculate This

Uses the UK VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) banding system based on CO2 emissions for the first year, then the standard flat rate from year 2.

Note: These are simplified estimates. Actual rates vary by registration date and may change with each budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.