How to Successfully Register Your Vehicle in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
- anayatjutt200
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 21
The process of vehicle registration in the United Kingdom has undergone significant changes with the introduction of new laws in 2025. Whether you're a new vehicle owner or looking to update your existing registration, understanding these changes is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the updated vehicle registration process, ensuring you remain compliant with the latest regulations.
Introduction to in the UK
Vehicle registration is a mandatory process for all vehicle owners in the UK. It serves as an official record, linking a vehicle to its owner and ensuring compliance with national regulations. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) oversees this process, maintaining a comprehensive database of all registered vehicles.
Overview of the 2025 Legislative Changes:
In 2025, the UK government implemented several legislative changes affecting vehicle registration:
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) Updates: Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer exempt from VED. From April 2025, newly registered EVs incur a £10 VED charge in the first year, increasing to £195 annually from the second year onwards. Existing EVs registered between April 2017 and March 2025 will also transition to the standard rate.
Congestion Charge Adjustments: Starting December 25, 2025, all vehicles, including EVs and hydrogen-powered models, are required to pay the £15 London Congestion Charge. Previously, these vehicles were exempt.
Number Plate Updates: The introduction of '25' and '75' number plates corresponds to vehicles registered from March and September 2025, respectively.
Steps to Register a New Vehicle
Registering a new vehicle involves several key steps:
Vehicle Purchase Documentation: Ensure you receive the V5C registration certificate from the dealer upon purchase.
Complete the V55/4 Form: This form is essential for registering new vehicles and can be obtained from the DVLA.
Payment of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): Calculate and pay the applicable VED based on the vehicle's emissions and registration date.
Submission to the DVLA: Send the completed form, necessary documentation, and payment to the DVLA for processing.
Registering a Used Vehicle
For pre-owned vehicles, the registration process includes:
Acquiring the V5C Certificate:
The seller must provide the V5C certificate.
Notification of Change of Ownership:
Both buyer and seller must inform the DVLA of the ownership transfer.
Change of Ownership Updating Personal Details: Ensure all personal information is current and accurate on the V5C.
Understanding Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) in 2025
VED, commonly known as road tax, has seen notable changes:
Electric Vehicles: From April 2025, EVs are subject to VED, starting at £10 for the first year and £195 annually thereafter.
How to Register a Vehicle in the UK
Petrol and Diesel Vehicles: High-emission vehicles face increased first-year rates, with some seeing a doubling of charges.
Hybrid Vehicles: The £10 road tax discount has been discontinued, aligning hybrid vehicles with the standard VED rate.
Number Plate Regulations and Updates
The UK's number plate system provides information about a vehicle's age and origin:
Format: Plates consist of two letters (region code), two numbers (age identifier), and three random letters.
2025 Updates: '25' plates are issued from March to August, while '75' plates cover September to February registrations.
How to Register a Vehicle in the UK
Banned Plates: The DVLA has prohibited over 250 number plates deemed offensive or inappropriate for 2025.
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Congestion Charge Implications
Changes to the London Congestion Charge affect all vehicle owners:
EVs and Hydrogen Vehicles: As of December 25, 2025, these vehicles are no longer exempt and must pay the £15 daily charge.
Payment Methods:
Drivers can pay online, via mobile apps, or through authorized payment points.
Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) Tax Adjustments
Company car users should note the following changes:
Tax Rate Increase: From April 2025, BiK rates for all vehicles increase by 1%, with EVs rising from 2% to 3%.
Financial Planning: Employees should consult with their employers to understand the impact on their taxable income.
Impact on Electric Vehicle Owners
Electric Vehicle
The 2025 regulations introduce several considerations for EV owners:
Increased Costs: Introduction of VED and congestion charges may affect the overall cost of EV ownership.
Charging Infrastructure: Providers are now required to meet new government standards for reliability and accessibility, potentially improving the charging experience.
Future-Proofing Your Vehicle Registration
To stay compliant and avoid potential penalties:
Stay Informed:
Regularly check for updates from the DVLA and other official sources.
Plan Ahead:
Consider future legislative changes when purchasing or registering a vehicle.
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