Monthly is easier to budget
Monthly Direct Debit spreads VED across the year, which can help when comparing running costs across several cars.
Payment intervals
Monthly car tax Direct Debit in 2026/27
UK vehicle tax can often be paid annually, every 6 months or by monthly Direct Debit. The monthly option spreads the cost, but the total over a year is usually higher than a single 12-month payment.
Last reviewed: 8 May 2026.
Direct answer
For the 2026/27 post-2017 standard rate, annual car tax is £200. If paid monthly by Direct Debit, the instalment is £17.50 and the total over 12 payments is £210.
Common monthly payment examples
| Case | 12 months | 6 months | Monthly Direct Debit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-2017 standard rate | £200 | £110 | £17.50 x 12 (£210 total) |
| Post-2017 with expensive car supplement | £640 | £352 | £56 x 12 (£672 total) |
| Pre-2001 car up to 1549cc | £230 | £126.50 | £20.13 x 12 (£241.50 total) |
| Pre-2001 car over 1549cc | £375 | £206.25 | £32.81 x 12 (£393.75 total) |
Annual is usually cheapest
A single 12-month payment is normally lower than the total paid by monthly Direct Debit or two 6-month payments.
Some low bands differ
Some legacy low CO2 bands do not offer the same 6-month option. Check the relevant band before comparing totals.