New tax rules reminder

The government is keen to remind motorcyclists about new vehicle tax rules which come into effect on January 1, 2004.

From the start of next year you’ll need to make sure you renew your tax within one month of their current bike tax expiring. If not, then you’ll be identified from the DVLA computer database and automatically receive an £80 fine. You’ll need to have a valid insurance and MOT certificate (if required) in order to pick up your new tax disc.

The aim of the new scheme is to reduce the number of illegal vehicles on the roads and to make it easier for police to trace bikes used in criminal activities.

Road Safety Minister David Jamieson said: ” This is particularly good news for bikers, who are especially vulnerable road users, as the new rules will mean fewer unsafe and illegal cars on our roads. At the same time more accurate DVLA records will help the police tackle road crime. ”

From January the registered keeper of the bike is legally liable for paying the tax, even if they have sold it and not informed the DVLA. Once the DVLA is informed about the sale, exportation or scrapping of a bike it will issue a receipt to retain as proof. Owners of bikes which are purely kept off road will need to make a Statuary Off Road Notification (SORN) declaration to the DVLA.

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