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Private number plates: explained

Private number plates have become incredibly popular with motorists in recent years. It's estimated that the UK's private number plate market is worth an estimated £2 billion. With more people wanting a personalised registration plate, knowing how to go about it and what legal requirements are involved is key to ensuring you are not breaking the law. Our helpful guide explores private number plates and how you can get one for your vehicle. What types of number plates are available? In the UK, four types of number plates are used....

A guide to Congestion Charges

Are you visiting central London soon in your car or van? Depending on what vehicle you own, you may need to pay the Congestion Charge to drive in the zone. The Congestion Charge covers a small area within the capital. Our helpful guide covers everything you need to know about congestion charges. What is the Congestion Charge? The Congestion Charge is a policy implemented by the UK government on 17 February 2003 to manage traffic in London. The scheme is managed by Transport for London and is designed to reduce...

What are noise cameras?

Noise cameras detect and monitor sound emitted from a vehicle that exceeds a limit that has been set. They may also be referred to as acoustic cameras, with the aim to catch drivers who make excessive noise with their engines. Why are noise cameras being used? In the UK, it is illegal to modify exhaust systems to increase noise and power. However, this hasn't stopped some owners getting their cars modified. The rollout of noise cameras aims to clampdown on drivers who use illegally modified exhausts to break the legal...

What does SORN mean?

SORN stands for Statutory Off-Road Notification. It declares to the DVLA that your car is not in use or parked on public roads, but that it is parked on a driveway, garaged or parked on private land instead. Why would you SORN a vehicle? There are many reasons to SORN a vehicle and declaring it off the road. Such as: If your have purchased a new car that you won't be driving just yet There is a lot of work being carried out on your vehicle You only used your...

Can I tax my car without an MOT?

Taxing your car without an MOT is illegal and could invalidate your insurance policy. Whilst your car tax and MOT may seem unrelated, there\'s a reason why your MOT is important for your car tax.\n\nVehicle tax is also known as \'road tax\' because the tax is not used for road maintenance. This tax is known as an \'excise duty\' which effectively means it is a tax on services that are considered damaging to the environment or consumer health. Many electric cars, for instance, have a reduction on the vehicle tax...