The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued an urgent new reminder to millions of drivers across the United Kingdom, urging them to verify their registration with an essential online portal. This digital service is designed to help motorists sidestep costly penalties, overlooked MOTs, and potential complications with their driving licences.
Critical Warning for Motorists
In a recent message posted on social media platform X, the DVLA emphasised the importance of linking vehicles to an official online account. The agency stated: "Don't forget to add your vehicles to your Driver and vehicles account. You can then view your vehicle details, including when your MOT expires. Not signed up yet? It's easy."
This warning comes as millions of drivers rely on notifications to ensure they do not inadvertently operate a vehicle without a current MOT or breach vehicle tax regulations. The transition to digital reminders is accelerating, making it crucial for motorists to adapt to avoid financial repercussions.
Comprehensive Account Features
The DVLA's driver and vehicles account offers a wide array of functionalities that empower motorists to manage their driving affairs efficiently. Key features include:
- Viewing driving records and entitled vehicles
- Checking penalty points or disqualifications
- Adding and viewing vehicle details, including MOT expiry dates
- Checking tax rates and managing vehicle tax reminders
- Renewing a photocard driving licence and managing renewal reminders
- Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged licence
- Changing the address on a driving licence
- Viewing a photo of the licence
- Renewing a licence at age 70 or over
- Exchanging a paper licence
- Creating a licence "check code" to share driving records, such as with car hire firms
- Viewing Driver CPC and tachograph information where applicable
Additionally, drivers can opt for digital reminders instead of traditional paper V11 letters when taxing their vehicle every six or twelve months. However, it is important to note that those who pay vehicle tax by direct debit cannot set up vehicle tax reminders through the account.
Eligibility and Security Measures
To register for the DVLA online account, drivers must possess either a driving licence issued in England, Scotland, or Wales, or a vehicle log book (V5C) in their name. The registration process includes identity verification to ensure security, typically requiring photo ID such as a passport or driving licence. This step helps protect sensitive personal information from unauthorised access.
Importance of Compliance
Missing MOT or tax deadlines can lead to significant financial penalties. Driving without a valid MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000, while keeping a vehicle without taxing it—unless it has been declared off the road with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN)—can trigger additional penalties. The DVLA notes that drivers can still access certain information, such as vehicle tax status or share driving licence details, without creating an account. However, with more services moving online and reminders becoming increasingly digital, the agency strongly encourages motorists to register to avoid missing critical updates and facing avoidable fines.
