Change your vehicle's tax class

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Tax is due to run out or vehicle purpose or design has changed

You’ll usually be able to change tax class at a Post Office, but in some cases you may need to apply by post.

When you can change tax class at a Post Office

You can change your vehicle’s tax class at a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax if either:

  • the vehicle tax is due to run out (you’ve had a reminder or ‘last chance’ warning letter)
  • you’re changing whether a vehicle is exempt from vehicle tax or not, for example, it’s being used by a disabled person

When you need to change tax class by post

You need to apply by post to change tax class if any of the following are true:

  • you’ve changed what the vehicle is used for, for example starting to use a minibus for profit
  • you’ve changed the vehicle’s body type, for example converting a car into a light goods vehicle
  • you’ve changed the structure of the vehicle, for example converting a four-wheel car into a three-wheel car

If you’re eligible for a vehicle tax reduction because you’re disabled, there’s a different way to apply by post.

The documents you need

Bring these to the Post Office or post them to DVLA:

  • the V5C registration certificate (log book) in your name, if you have one
  • your vehicle tax reminder letter (V11) if you have one
  • evidence of a current MOT (if your vehicle needs one) - for example, a copy of your vehicle’s MOT history or your MOT certificate, if you have one
  • evidence if your vehicle’s exempt from an MOT (V112)
  • evidence of any eligibility for a disability exemption
  • payment for vehicle tax (if you have to pay for your new tax class)

If you’re in Northern Ireland, you’ll also need:

  • an MOT certificate that’s valid when the tax starts
  • an insurance certificate or cover note

If you drive a lorry or bus, you also need to bring or post the vehicle’s latest annual test certificate or the form that proves it’s exempt (V112G).

If you’re posting documents, you need to post the originals.

If you do not have a V5C registration certificate (log book)

You’ll need to bring or post the following along with the other documents:

  • a completed application for a new registration certificate - either download form V62 or get it from the Post Office
  • your ‘new keeper’ slip, if you’ve just bought the vehicle

A new registration certificate is free if you have a ‘new keeper’ slip. Otherwise the cost is £25.

If you’re applying by post and need to pay the £25, include a cheque or postal order payable to ‘DVLA, Swansea’.

Where to send postal applications

Send your postal application to:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BF

What happens next

  1. You’ll get a confirmation from DVLA that the change has been made.

  2. DVLA will send you an updated V5C.

  3. DVLA will send you a refund if you’re due one.

You can still use your vehicle while your application is being processed.

View a printable version of the whole guide

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