Can I get free car tax if I'm disabled?

For disabled people receiving higher rate mobility payments or certain other benefits.

Applies to: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland Last checked against official sources: 30 September 2026

You can get vehicle tax exemption for one vehicle if you get the higher rate mobility part of DLA, the enhanced rate mobility part of PIP or ADP, or certain other payments. The standard rate mobility part of PIP or ADP gives a 50% reduction instead.

The vehicle must be used for the disabled person's needs.
For a first claim, apply at a Post Office.

Key facts

Enhanced PIP mobility: free
Standard PIP mobility: 50% off
One vehicle only

Free vehicle tax or half price

There are two levels of help. Which one you get depends on the disability benefit you receive.

Benefit you get	Help with vehicle tax
Higher rate mobility part of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)	Free (exemption)
Enhanced rate mobility part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)	Free
Enhanced rate mobility part of Adult Disability Payment (ADP)	Free
Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance	Free
Higher rate mobility part of Child Disability Payment	Free
War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement	Free
Armed Forces Independence Payment	Free
Standard rate mobility part of PIP or ADP	50% off
Lower rate mobility part of DLA	No help

The daily living part of PIP or ADP does not count. It must be the mobility part.

Rules about the vehicle

You can get help for one vehicle only.
It must be registered in the disabled person's name or their nominated driver's name. A nominated driver is someone you choose to drive for you.
It must be used for the disabled person's own needs. A nominated driver cannot use it for their own trips.

How to claim free vehicle tax

If it is the first time you are claiming for this vehicle, go to a Post Office to apply for vehicle tax and claim the exemption.
You must do this again every time you change your vehicle.

You claim the exemption at the same time as you apply for vehicle tax. You still need to "tax" the vehicle, you just pay nothing.

How to claim the 50% reduction

The reduction is claimed by post from DVLA. Send:

your PIP or ADP benefit letter showing the standard rate mobility award
the vehicle log book (V5C)
a completed V10 form
evidence of a valid MOT, if the vehicle needs one
a cheque for half the full rate of vehicle tax
an insurance certificate, if you live in Northern Ireland

Post it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BF.

If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland

Scotland: the mobility parts of Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment and Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance count, as shown in the table.
Northern Ireland: if you claim the 50% reduction you must also send an insurance certificate.

Other help with getting around

If you get the higher or enhanced mobility rate, you may be able to lease a car through the Motability Scheme. You may also be able to get a Blue Badge for parking if you have severe walking difficulties.

Related guides

Where this comes from

Get it done

This takes you to the official service, which is free to use.

Tax your vehicle

Common questions

How do I claim 50% off vehicle tax?

Send your benefit decision letter, log book (V5C), a V10 form, MOT evidence and payment for half the tax to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BF.

Can someone else drive my car if it is vehicle tax exempt?

Yes, it can be registered to your nominated driver, but it must only be used for your needs as the disabled person.

Does the lower rate mobility part of DLA get a vehicle tax reduction?

No, you cannot get a reduction for the lower rate mobility part of DLA.

Do I need to claim again if I change my car?

Yes, you must claim the exemption at a Post Office every time you change your vehicle.

Source: Financial help if you're disabled: vehicles and transport

Checked against GOV.UK on 30 September 2026

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