Motorists across the UK are being warned of significant Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) increases that came into effect from April 1, with some drivers facing up to £150 more in annual car tax. A simple online number plate checker is now available to help drivers quickly determine how much they owe, based on their vehicle’s carbon dioxide emissions.
The latest DVLA changes affect almost all car owners — including those with petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles — and have raised concerns among motoring organisations about the financial impact on millions of households already dealing with high fuel and living costs.
Why This Matters
The rise in VED is particularly notable for vehicles registered between 2001 and 2017, which fall under the emissions-based tax system. The cost of taxing these cars now varies more steeply depending on CO2 output, meaning older low-emission vehicles that previously enjoyed cheaper rates are now being caught in a broader tax net.
According to government data, around 58% of drivers in the UK currently pay road tax based on this older system.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, described the hikes as a “major financial shock,” warning that drivers of once-efficient small family cars could now see their annual bills jump by more than £150.
“With the average car currently paying £436.84 in fuel duty each year — rising to £524.21 once VAT at the pump is added — this VED increase represents a 34% hike on top of already high motoring costs,” said Cousens.
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How the Number Plate Tool Works
To help motorists navigate the updated tax structure, platforms like WeBuyAnyCar now offer a free online number plate checker. By entering their vehicle registration, drivers can instantly see key details such as:
- Engine size (cc)
- Power output (kW)
- CO2 emissions (g/km)
- Tax band
- MOT status and expiry
- Tax due date
This information helps users calculate how much they will pay in VED over the next 12 months and ensures they do not miss payment deadlines — avoiding penalties or lapses in cover.
How Much More Will You Pay?
The amount of tax increase varies depending on when your vehicle was registered:
- Cars registered from 2001 to 2017: These are subject to CO2-based charges. Depending on the emissions level, VED increases range from £10 to £150.
- Cars registered from 2017 onwards: Standard rates have risen from £190 to £195.
- Vehicles from 1985 to 2001: Owners could see an increase of up to £20, based on engine size.
Meanwhile, electric car owners are not entirely off the hook. Although they’ve long benefitted from zero road tax, there are hints that future VED reforms may include them too, especially as the government looks to broaden the tax base in a post-petrol landscape.
Calls for Reform and Transparency
Motoring groups are calling for a clearer and more sustainable road tax system. The RAC has echoed the AA’s warnings, urging policymakers to consider the cumulative cost burden on drivers who are already dealing with pothole-riddled roads, rising insurance premiums, and fuel inflation.
“While encouraging greener transport is important, the current patchwork of tax bands and frequent updates only confuse and penalise everyday drivers — especially those who cannot afford a new car,” an RAC spokesperson noted.
There are also growing concerns about the equity of the system. Many lower-income households rely on older, more affordable vehicles, which now attract higher VED due to outdated emissions standards.
Public Reaction
Many motorists have taken to online forums and social media to express frustration at the hikes. Some have even indicated they may consider selling their vehicles or switching to public transport if costs continue to rise.
For others, tools like the free number plate checker offer some relief — at least providing a degree of transparency in understanding their tax liabilities.
“I used the tool after hearing about the VED changes. It was fast and told me everything I needed to know,” said Emma Thompson, a Derby-based schoolteacher. “My car’s tax has gone up by £120 this year — not great, but at least I’m not caught off-guard.”
What Should Drivers Do Now?
Experts suggest that all drivers — especially those with older vehicles — use the number plate checker tool as soon as possible. This will help them budget for the year ahead, avoid late fees, and consider whether switching vehicles may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Additionally, drivers are reminded to check their MOT expiry and insurance renewal alongside their tax status to ensure full compliance with UK road laws.
As tax bands become more complex, knowledge remains a driver’s best defence. And with just a few clicks, a number plate check could save motorists from both confusion and costly surprises.
