The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has introduced several important rule changes that will affect motorists in the UK, starting in 2025. These changes cover areas such as fuel rates, vehicle excise duties (VED), and number plate customization rules.

Driving Licenses

Recently, road safety experts have been advocating for the introduction of a new type of driving license to enhance safety on the roads. This comes in response to growing concerns about the driving habits of certain motorists.

The proposed solution is a Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) system, which would impose specific restrictions on newly qualified drivers. This approach aims to help them stay focused and improve their driving skills during the early stages of their driving experience.

1. Adjustable Advisory Fuel Rates (AFR)

One significant change is the update to the Advisory Fuel Rates (AFR), which affect petrol and diesel car owners. The AFRs are set by the DVLA to help employers and employees calculate fuel reimbursement for business use of company cars. These rates are now more adjustable, meaning they will fluctuate based on current fuel prices, helping to ensure fairer and more accurate reimbursements.

This is particularly important for company car owners who need to accurately calculate expenses related to business travel. The rates are regularly updated and can vary depending on fuel type (petrol, diesel, CNG or  LPG) and engine size.

2. DVLA Introduction of ’25’ Number Plates with Strict Customization Rules

Starting in 2025, the DVLA will issue new ’25’ number plates as part of their regular vehicle registration update. This new number plate format will be used for vehicles registered from March 2025 onwards. However, there are strict customization rules to avoid fines.

Motorists wishing to personalize their number plates must adhere to the DVLA’s guidelines to ensure that the number plates remain legible and conform to official standards. Failure to comply with these rules could result in fines and the need to replace the number plate. The DVLA is cracking down on plates that could be misinterpreted or that do not meet the strict requirements set for vehicle identification.

3. New Vehicle Excise Duties (VED) for Electric Vehicles

One of the more significant changes will affect electric vehicle (EV) owners. Starting from April 1, 2025, the UK government will introduce new vehicle excise duties for electric vehicles. This marks a shift from the previous policy, where EVs were exempt from VED due to their environmentally friendly status.

The new VED for electric vehicles will be based on CO2 emissions and the vehicle’s value. While the charges are intended to ensure that all road users contribute to maintaining UK infrastructure, they have been met with some concern by electric vehicle owners who are accustomed to the tax exemptions associated with their low-emission vehicles. However, the exact rates and criteria for the new duties are yet to be fully detailed.

Impact on Motorists due to changes in DVLA rules

These changes are designed to bring the UK’s vehicle taxation and regulation system in line with modern driving trends, particularly as more electric vehicles take to the roads and fuel consumption and environmental standards evolve. Motorists are advised to stay updated on the DVLA’s website or consult with their vehicle tax authorities to understand how these new rules may affect them.

For more detailed information on these updates, you can check the following sources:

• The DVLA’s official website for further updates
• Driving law changes in 2025 could see new licence restrictions, rules for the elderly and more
• New DVLA rules affecting motorists – BBC News
• DVLA introduces new rules on number plates and vehicle excise duties