How to check if a car is taxed
The DVLA shows tax status (Taxed, Untaxed or SORN) and the tax due date free at gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax. You only need the registration number.
Tax doesn't transfer
When you buy a car, the seller's tax is cancelled. You must tax it yourself before you drive it away, even if the check says it is currently taxed.
How to pay
You can tax a vehicle on GOV.UK using the 11-digit reference from the V5C logbook or the 16-digit reference on the new keeper slip.