How is road tax calculated in India?

Road tax in India is calculated based on the vehicle's ex-showroom price, engine capacity, and state-specific rates. Most states charge road tax as a percentage of the vehicle value (typically 2-10%) or at fixed rates based on vehicle category. Some states offer concessions for electric vehicles and hybrid cars. Road tax is a one-time payment for private vehicles in most states.

Is road tax the same across all states in India?

No, road tax varies significantly across Indian states. Each state has its own road tax structure with different rates and calculation methods. For example, Karnataka charges 2% for cars while Maharashtra charges up to 8%. Some states like Delhi have lower road tax rates. Always check your state's specific road tax rates before purchasing a vehicle.

How to pay road tax online?

Road tax can be paid online through the Parivahan portal, state transport department websites, or VAHAN portal. Select 'Tax Payment' service, enter vehicle registration number, calculate applicable tax, make online payment, and download the receipt. For interstate purchases, road tax is paid at the time of registration in the new state.

What happens if road tax is not paid?

Failure to pay road tax can result in penalties, vehicle seizure, and fines during traffic checks. Road tax default may also affect vehicle insurance validity and renewal. Some states impose ongoing annual tax for commercial vehicles. Always carry proof of road tax payment while driving.

Can road tax be claimed back when selling a vehicle?

In most Indian states, road tax is non-refundable upon vehicle sale. The tax is considered paid for the remaining validity period but cannot be claimed back. Some states allow refund of unused road tax period when transferring registration to another state. Check with your state's transport department for refund policies.

Car Tax and Military Vehicles UK 2026: Armed Forces Exemp...

Members of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel working for the Ministry of Defence operate under specific rules when it comes to road tax. These rules cover both official vehicles and personal vehicles owned by service personnel, including special provisions for those posted overseas.

Official MOD Vehicles and Road Tax

Vehicles owned by the Ministry of Defence and used for official military purposes are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty. This applies to military vehicles including tanks, armoured personnel carriers, and other defence-specific vehicles. The exemption also covers many support vehicles used by the Armed Forces for official duties. These vehicles are typically registered under specific Crown registration numbers and are not subject to standard VED rules.

Personal Vehicles of Service Personnel

Service personnel who use their own vehicles for official duties — for example, commuting to base or carrying equipment — do not receive an automatic road tax exemption on their personal vehicles. Their personal vehicles must be taxed in the standard way. However, if a personal vehicle is requisitioned for official use, there are specific provisions for temporary relief from road tax — this requires documentation from the commanding officer confirming the requisition.

Military Personnel Posted Overseas

Service personnel posted overseas for more than 12 months may apply to the DVLA to cancel their vehicle's road tax for the duration of the posting. This is a specific exemption that recognizes the vehicle will not be used on UK roads. To apply, the service member must provide official documentation confirming the posting, including dates and location. The exemption applies only to the period of the posting — upon return, road tax must be renewed. Related: Car Tax for Military and Armed Forces Vehicles UK 2026 | Car Tax for Military and Armed Forces Vehicles UK 2026 | Car Tax and Military Vehicles UK 2026 | Car Tax Exemption for Military Personnel UK 2026.

Imported Military Vehicles

Bringing a military-specification vehicle into the UK for private use triggers standard import and road tax rules. The vehicle must go through the IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) process if not already UK-compliant. Road tax is then calculated based on the vehicle's CO2 emissions and registration date — military vehicles do not receive an automatic exemption when registered to a private individual. Specialist military vehicles may be difficult to register due to their specification and may require significant modification to meet UK road safety standards.

Veterans and Ex-Service Personnel

Veterans receiving a war pension may be entitled to road tax exemption on one vehicle. The War Pensioner's Vehicle Prescription Certificate allows qualifying veterans to claim exemption from Vehicle Excise Duty on a single vehicle. The vehicle must be registered in the veteran's name and used primarily by them or a named driver. The scheme is administered through the Veterans' Agency and requires a valid certificate to be presented when taxing the vehicle.

Official Resources: GOV.UK Check Vehicle Tax | GOV.UK Vehicle Tax | DVLA Online | MOT Check

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much is car tax (VED) in the UK 2026?
Car tax rates in the UK depend on your vehicle's CO2 emissions and list price. Standard rates start from £190 per year for petrol and diesel cars, with zero-rated VED for EVs. First-year rates vary from £0 to £2,605 depending on emissions. Additional premiums apply for vehicles over £40,000.

Q: How do I check if my car is taxed online?
You can check your vehicle's tax status for free on the Gov.uk website at gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax. You'll need your vehicle's registration number (number plate). You can also check via the Motor Insurance Database to verify road tax and insurance status simultaneously.

Q: Can I get a refund on car tax if I sell my vehicle?
Yes — if you sell or scrap your vehicle, you can claim a refund on any full months of remaining road tax. Contact DVLA with the V11 reminder letter or apply online at gov.uk. Refunds are usually processed within 4-6 weeks.

Q: Is road tax refund available when transferring ownership?
No — road tax does not transfer with the vehicle. When you sell your car, the tax is automatically cancelled and any remaining months are refunded to you by DVLA. The new owner must tax the vehicle immediately. As a buyer, always verify the vehicle's tax status before purchasing.

Q: What is the luxury car tax threshold in the UK 2026?
The additional rate for vehicles over £40,000 (list price) adds £410 per year to standard VED rates for years 2-6 of registration. This surcharge brings the annual cost for high-emission vehicles over £40,000 to around £600-690 per year. Pure EVs under £40,000 pay zero VED.

Car Tax and Military Vehicles UK 2026: Armed Forces Exemptions and Rules