Get vehicle information from DVLA

General Information

Introduction

When it comes to obtaining accurate and up-to-date information about vehicles in the United Kingdom, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) serves as a valuable resource. Whether you need details for purchasing a used car, verifying vehicle specifications, or conducting research, the DVLA offers a straightforward process to access vehicle information. In this article, we will walk you through the steps involved in obtaining vehicle data from the DVLA.


Online Vehicle Information

The DVLA provides an online service called "Vehicle Enquiry," which allows individuals to access specific information about a vehicle. By visiting the official DVLA website, you can use the vehicle's registration number (number plate) to retrieve the following details:


  1. Vehicle Tax Status:

    Determine whether a vehicle is currently taxed or if it requires taxation.

  2. MOT Status and History:

    Check the current MOT status of a vehicle, along with its MOT history and any advisories or failures recorded during previous tests.

  3. Vehicle Details:

    Obtain basic vehicle details such as make, model, year of manufacture, fuel type, engine size, CO2 emissions, and colour.

  4. Vehicle Tax Rates:

    Find out the tax rates applicable to the vehicle based on its fuel type and CO2 emissions.


It's important to note that while online vehicle information provides valuable insights, it may not include comprehensive data such as ownership history or finer details about previous maintenance or modifications.


Requesting Additional Vehicle Information

If you require more specific or detailed information about a vehicle, the DVLA offers additional services that require submitting a formal request. Here are the two main methods:


  1. DVLA Vehicle Information Service:

    This service allows you to request various types of information, including the registered keeper's name and address, outstanding vehicle tax details, or the date of first registration. To access this service, you will need to complete the appropriate form (V888 or V888/3) and follow the instructions for submission.

  2. Subject Access Request (SAR):

    Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you have the right to request personal data held by the DVLA that relates to yourself. This may include information on vehicles registered in your name or details about previous registered keepers. To initiate a SAR, you will need to follow the DVLA's SAR process, which involves submitting a request along with the required identification documents.


It's essential to note that the DVLA may charge a fee for certain requests, and processing times can vary depending on the nature of the inquiry and availability of the requested data.


Conclusion

Accessing vehicle information from the DVLA is a relatively straightforward process that can be done online or by submitting a formal request. Utilizing the DVLA's online vehicle enquiry service allows you to retrieve basic details, tax status, and MOT history of a vehicle. For more specific information, such as registered keeper details or extensive vehicle data, formal requests through the DVLA Vehicle Information Service or a Subject Access Request may be required. By following the appropriate procedures and providing accurate information, you can obtain the necessary details to make informed decisions about vehicles and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.