In an ideal world, nobody would have to fork out good money to tax their vehicle. In the UK, we pay some of the highest prices in the entire world for petrol and diesel. The extent to which fuel is taxed is downright ludicrous, making additional car tax payments little more than an extra slap in the face.

Still, there’s no point complaining about something you cannot do anything about. You either tax your car as required by law, or you find yourself facing a penalty of up to £1,000. Given the fact that car tax isn’t that expensive, it’s a better option than being lumped with a massive fine.

But what types of vehicles are exempt from taxation entirely? More specifically, are there any types of vehicles where you don’t have to worry about paying any form of tax whatsoever?

Exempt vehicles

The short answer is yes, but (as usual) it’s not quite as simple as ignoring the whole taxation thing entirely. There are some types of vehicles that are granted exemption from tax in the UK. This means you don’t have to pay anything to tax them, but you still technically have to register them as taxed in the normal way.

You tax them, but you don’t pay to tax them – just to keep things nice and confusing.

In any case, not having to pay a penny in tax more than makes up for the slight inconvenience of the admin involved. As for which types of vehicles you don’t after tax, the vehicle classifications below are currently exempt from taxation in the UK:

  • Cars used by a disabled driver: Drivers who are registered as disabled can file for an exemption, so that they do not have to pay anything when taxing their vehicles.
  • Carries disabled passengers: The same also applies to domestic and commercial vehicles used specifically (and exclusively) by businesses for the transportation of disabled persons.
  • Mobility scooter: Powered wheelchairs are also included in this category, which encompasses all types of mobility vehicles which don’t actually qualify as cars.
  • Historic vehicles: Remarkably, any car that was manufactured prior to January 1, 1980, is now considered a historic vehicle and may be exempt from taxation. 
  • Electric cars: In an attempt to encourage more motorists to go electric, special incentives (including zero taxation) are on the cards for electric vehicle owners.

There are also some other types of vehicles that are exempt from taxation, including those used for forestry and agricultural purposes. Though there are always exceptions to these exemptions, so it’s important to clarify your vehicle’s status with the DVLA if unsure.

Responsible Car Scrapping and Recycling

Don’t forget that when the time comes to scrap your end-of-life vehicle, tax and insurance status are inconsequential.  

Simply contact a member of the team at Take My Scrap Car and we’ll happily collect your vehicle from any location in Norfolk, and ensure you are paid a fair price accordingly.