Policy paper
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) exemption for search and rescue vehicles
This measure gives search and rescue charities an exemption from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) on eligible vehicles.
Documents
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Details
This measure will mean that vehicles operated by search and rescue charities are exempt from the requirement to pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).
Eligible vehicles must be:
- used mainly for search and rescue activities
- clearly marked with the words ‘Search and Rescue’ on both sides
- registered to a search and rescue charity
This measure will take effect from from 1 April 2027.
Updates to this page
Published 13 July 2026