Drivers across the UK are risking hefty financial penalties by neglecting their MOT and vehicle tax obligations, with thousands of motorists at risk.
Every month, over 11,000 people search online about taxing a car without a valid MOT, revealing a concerning trend.
Experts warn that this creates a dangerous cycle for motorists who delay their MOT test, as vehicles cannot be taxed without valid certification.
Those who continue to drive untaxed vehicles face automatic penalties from the DVLA, which costs £80, although it can be reduced to £40 if paid within 33 days.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Experts are warning drivers ahead of new car tax changes launching on April 1
GETTY
Unpaid penalties are referred to debt collection agencies, further escalating the financial burden.
With April tax changes approaching, drivers are being warned that the combined penalties for driving without tax and MOT could reach nearly £4,000.
This substantial sum highlights the serious consequences of neglecting these essential vehicle requirements.
Drivers caught with an untaxed and MOT-less vehicle face an Out of Court Settlement letter demanding a £30 fine plus double the unpaid tax amount.
Failure to pay this settlement can lead to prosecution with fines up to £2,500 or five times the owed tax, whichever is higher.
If authorities clamp the vehicle, drivers must pay up to £200 for its release. Additional storage costs of £21 per day can accumulate to £294 if left for the maximum 14 days.
Driving without a valid MOT is a separate offence carrying an additional £1,000 fine. These combined penalties could leave drivers facing bills of nearly £4,000.
The financial impact extends beyond immediate fines, as unpaid penalties can damage credit ratings and lead to further legal complications.
Andrew Jervis, motoring expert and CEO at ClickMechanic, said: “We often see drivers fall into a tricky situation where their car fails its MOT, they put off repairs, and suddenly, they’re driving without tax, too.
“It’s an easy trap to fall into, but the consequences are serious; fines, court action, and even having your vehicle clamped or impounded.”
This pattern often begins with a failed MOT test that leads to postponed repairs, and before drivers realise, they’re committing multiple offences simultaneously.
Motorists are urged to check their road tax status online via the DVLA website before the April tax changes take effect.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The DVLA actively employs Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to identify non-compliant vehicles on UK roads.
Jervis added: “AI-driven ANPR systems are advancing rapidly, and within a few years, we could see near-instant detection of untaxed or MOT-expired vehicles.
“Authorities will have even greater ability to track down offenders, making it more important than ever for motorists to stay on top of tax and MOTs.”
