Contract Hire

My contract hire company seem to have failed to send my tax disc (for the period beginning 09/07). I checked with the DVLA and the vehicle is taxed, but I'm getting various information about my position in the eyes of the law, if I wish to drive. Can someone help clarify this point?

Article 33 of the excise duty on vehicles and Registration Act of 1994 provides for breaches of failing to display or exhibit a vehicle permit, business license or license invalid.

33 (1) an offense to use or store on a highway a vehicle in respect of which duty is payable (including vehicles and the licensing of trade) and not the display the permit as appropriate.

Therefore, you as a user, are committing the offense. Regardless of who actually owned the vehicle.

It is illegal to drive a car that does not display a sticker. It would therefore you committing the offense.

However DVLC are highly unlikely to prosecute if there is tax on the vehicle. But it does draw attention to the car and you could be examined by the police, traffic wardens etc and you face the disadvantage of being reported.

It is up to you contact the rental company and check it.

The law states that you must display a valid sticker, even if the car is taxed, you can be prosecuted for not displaying it.
Contact the rental company as soon as possible and send them a copy as soon as.
In law, you should check the car tax disc every time you get in the car.

DVLA ring up to confirm whether they have been taxed this car, e-mail or a letter in writing if any to send a copy to your company.

If still no help
ask to speak to the manager and cancel your car

You can do to not display a valid sticker

The first question is have you spoken with the leasing company?

What do they say?

You commit a crime if you fail to display a current tax disc.