Car tax address update UK — keeping your address current with DVLA is critical for road tax reminders, refunds, and penalty notices. Here is why it matters in 2026.
Why Your Address Must Be Current
DVLA sends road tax reminders to the registered address. If you move and do not update your V5C, you may not receive reminders before your road tax expires. Refund cheques are sent to the registered address. Penalty notices are also sent to the registered keeper.
How to Update Your Address with DVLA
Update your address at GOV.UK change address using your V5C reference number. You can update online in minutes. The change takes effect immediately and applies to all DVLA records including road tax.
Refunds Sent to Old Address
When you sell a vehicle and notify DVLA, any refund of unused road tax is sent to the address on your V5C. If your V5C shows an old address, the refund cheque goes to the wrong place. Update your address before selling any vehicle.
Penalty Notices and Wrong Address
Fixed Penalty Notices for untaxed vehicles are sent to the registered keeper's address on the V5C. If you have moved without updating, the penalty arrives late or not at all — but the fine remains legally enforceable. Always update your address before moving.
Conclusion
Car tax address update UK: update your V5C at GOV.UK whenever you move. Refunds, reminders, and fines all depend on a current address.