Eight cars exempt from vehicle tax in the UK – full list
Some vehicle types are exempt from vehicle tax. However, although this means you don’t need to pay tax, you still need to register (tax) your vehicle even if no payment is required.
It has been confirmed that some vehicle owners do not need to pay if their vehicle falls into one of the categories listed below. But others have to pay accordingly GOV.UK.
Changes that drivers should be aware of will also come into force next month. And it’s all about changes to our car bills.
6. Mowers: You do not need to pay vehicle tax for a lawn mower that is specifically designed and used for mowing lawns. This exemption does not apply to tractors used with trailed lawn mowers.
7. Steam Vehicles: You do not need to pay vehicle tax on any steam-powered vehicle.
8. Vehicles used in agriculture, horticulture and forestry. This includes:
- tractors
- agricultural engines
- light agricultural vehicles used in off-road
- ‘Limited use’ vehicles for short journeys (up to 1.5km) on public road between estates, used by the same person
If you submit a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notice) you are notifying the DVLA that your vehicle will not be used on public roads. Accordingly GOV.UK: “You will receive a full refund of any remaining tax.”
He adds: “You can’t use the vehicle on the road until it’s taxed again.” If you are concerned, have any questions or need help with your vehicle tax you should contact the DVLA.
Car tax changes – April 2026
Some people may start seeing changes next month after Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced major overhauls to the UK car tax system in her Autumn Budget. As described by RAC DriverAn upcoming change will come into force from April 1, 2026. The standard tax rate rises to £200 for all petrol, diesel or hybrid cars registered after 1 April 2017.
Motoring experts say 6 months’ payment costs £110, or £105 if paid by direct debit, while splitting the payment over 12 monthly installments totals £210. If your car originally cost over £40,000 (£50,000 for electric cars), you can pay an extra £440 in luxury car tax, taking your annual VED to £640. For cars registered before 2017, the amount may vary depending on the year of the vehicle, fuel type and emissions.
To find your car’s tax band, you’ll need the vehicle’s registration year (you can find this in the V5C register), fuel type and CO2 emissions. In addition, starting from April 2028, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle drivers will pay more taxes. This comes with the introduction of a new pay-per-mile eVED (Electric Vehicle Excise Tax) system.
