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Millions of motorists are being warned they could face fines of up to £1,000 if they fail to follow a major rule - even if they believe they owe nothing.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a blunt reminder that all drivers must tax their vehicle, regardless of whether they actually have to pay. In a fresh alert on X, the DVLA said: "You must tax your vehicle, even if you don't have to pay anything."

The warning is aimed at drivers of vehicles that are exempt from road tax - including many electric cars and some classic vehicles - who may wrongly assume they do not need to take any action.

But failing to formally register the vehicle as taxed can still land motorists in trouble, with penalties of up to £1,000.

A growing number of drivers fall into the "£0 tax" bracket due to exemptions, but DVLA rules still require them to go through the process of taxing the vehicle.

This means that even if the cost is £0 (0%), the paperwork must still be completed and kept up to date.

Motorists must also ensure their vehicle meets all legal requirements before driving, including having valid insurance and an MOT where applicable.

Drivers can tax their vehicle online using a reference number from:

• A recent DVLA reminder or 'last chance' warning letter
• Their V5C log book (in their name)
• The green 'new keeper' slip if they've just bought the vehicle

Payments can be made by Direct Debit, debit card or credit card - although Direct Debit is not available if applying by phone.

Alternatively, drivers can tax their vehicle:

• By phone via the DVLA's 24-hour service
• At a Post Office that handles vehicle tax

There are several common mistakes that can lead to fines:

• Assuming exemption means no action needed
• Forgetting to tax a newly purchased vehicle
• Driving before MOT records are updated (which can take up to 2 days)
• Failing to register a vehicle as off the road (SORN)

Drivers who are not using their vehicle must officially declare it off the road. Otherwise, it must be taxed - even if it is not being driven.

Motorists in Northern Ireland face additional requirements when taxing at a Post Office, including providing proof of insurance and MOT documentation.

Those changing a vehicle's tax class - for example to or from a disabled category - must also complete the process in person at a Post Office. More details can be found here.