What Does Making a Vehicle SORN Mean?
Making a vehicle SORN, which stands for Statutory Off-Road Notification, is the official process of telling the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that your vehicle will not be used or kept on a public road. It’s a crucial step for any vehicle owner who is not actively taxing their vehicle for road use. Failing to either tax your vehicle or declare it SORN when it’s off-road can lead to penalties. This declaration ensures you comply with UK legislation regarding vehicle taxation and insurance.
- Declare your vehicle SORN if it’s not on a public road.
- Avoid penalties by either taxing or SORNing your vehicle.
- SORN informs the DVLA of your vehicle's off-road status.
- It's a legal requirement for untaxed vehicles.
When you make your vehicle SORN, you are legally stating that it is off the public highway. This means it should be kept on private property, such as a driveway, garage, or private land. The primary implication for you as the owner is that you will no longer need to pay vehicle excise duty (VED), commonly known as road tax, for the period it remains declared SORN. However, this comes with strict conditions: the vehicle must not be driven on any public road, and it generally needs to be insured if it's kept anywhere other than a private garage. Understanding these conditions is vital before you begin making your vehicle SORN.
The Purpose of SORN
The fundamental purpose behind the SORN system is to manage and regulate vehicles that are not in use on public roads. Before the SORN system, individuals could simply stop taxing their vehicles, leaving them unregistered and untaxed without any formal notification to the authorities. This led to a significant number of untaxed vehicles potentially being left on streets or elsewhere, causing administrative and enforcement issues. Introducing the SORN requirement provides a clear legal framework:
- Tax Compliance: It ensures that all vehicles used on public roads are properly taxed.
- Record Keeping: The DVLA maintains accurate records of vehicles that are actively taxed and those that are officially off the road.
- Avoidance of Penalties: It gives vehicle owners a legal way to avoid paying road tax when their vehicle is not in use, thereby preventing potential fines for non-payment of VED.
- Insurance Requirements: While SORN exempts you from road tax, it doesn't automatically exempt you from insurance. Specific rules apply depending on where the vehicle is kept.
Essentially, making your vehicle SORN is about maintaining legal compliance and managing your responsibilities as a vehicle owner, especially during periods when the vehicle is not being driven on public roads.
The decision to make a vehicle SORN is a commitment to keeping it off public roads until you decide to tax it again.
What is a Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) Licence?
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), often referred to as road tax, is a mandatory charge levied on most vehicles used or kept on public roads in the UK. The amount payable typically depends on factors such as the vehicle’s engine size, CO2 emissions, fuel type, and, for vehicles registered after a certain date, the initial purchase price. For many years, VED was collected via a physical tax disc displayed on the vehicle's windscreen. However, the system is now entirely electronic, managed by the DVLA. You are legally required to have a valid VED licence for your vehicle if it is kept on a public road, unless you have officially declared it SORN. This ensures that the government receives revenue to contribute towards road maintenance and infrastructure.
If your vehicle is not insured and not declared SORN, you must have a valid VED licence. The electronic system means that DVLA automatically checks if vehicles are taxed. If a vehicle is found to be untaxed and not SORN, the registered keeper is liable for penalties. This highlights why the SORN process is so important for vehicle owners who are not using their vehicle regularly or at all.
How to Make a Vehicle SORN: Step-by-Step
Making a vehicle SORN is a straightforward process, but it's vital to ensure you meet all the requirements beforehand. The DVLA offers several methods to declare your vehicle off-road, catering to different preferences and situations. Each method requires specific information to confirm your identity and vehicle details accurately. You will need your vehicle's registration number and the 11-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or the 12-digit engine number, depending on the vehicle type. Ensure you have these to hand before starting.
The primary ways to make your vehicle SORN are online, by post, or by phone. The online method is generally the quickest and most convenient. For postal or telephone declarations, you can obtain the necessary forms or details directly from the DVLA. Regardless of the method chosen, it's important to know that the SORN declaration is immediate, but if you are sending a form by post, it may take some time to be processed. Therefore, if you are making a vehicle SORN because your tax disc is about to expire, it is advisable to initiate the process a few days in advance.
Making Your Vehicle SORN Online
The DVLA's online portal is the most popular and efficient way to make a vehicle SORN. It is available 24/7, allowing you to complete the process at your convenience. Here’s how to go about it:
- Visit the Official DVLA Website: Navigate to the Gov.uk website and search for the 'Declare your SORN' service.
- Enter Vehicle Details: You will need to provide your vehicle's full registration number.
- Provide Identification: You will then be asked for either the 11-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or the 12-digit engine number. The VIN is usually found on the vehicle itself (e.g., on the dashboard or door frame) or on your V5C (log book). For older vehicles or specific types, the engine number might be required.
- Confirm Details: Review all the information you have entered to ensure accuracy.
- Submit Declaration: Once confirmed, submit your declaration. You will receive an on-screen confirmation.
It is essential to ensure that the vehicle is kept off public roads as soon as you make the SORN declaration. The online service confirms your declaration immediately, so there is no waiting period for the SORN to become active from your end. Keep the confirmation details safe for your records.
Always use the official Gov.uk website for SORN declarations to avoid fraudulent sites and ensure your information is processed securely.
Making Your Vehicle SORN by Post
If you prefer not to use the online service or do not have easy access to the internet, you can make a vehicle SORN by post. This method is more traditional but takes longer to process. You will need to download and fill out the correct form from the DVLA website, or request it by phone.
- Download or Request Form: The relevant form for making a SORN by post is typically the V147 'SORN Declaration' form. You can find this on the Gov.uk website or ask the DVLA to send it to you.
- Complete the Form: Fill in all the required details accurately, including your vehicle registration number, VIN or engine number, and your personal details.
- Send to DVLA: Post the completed form to the address specified on the form. Ensure you use the correct postcode for the DVLA.
The key difference with the postal method is that the SORN is only legally active once the DVLA has received and processed your form. This can take up to two weeks, so it is advisable to send it well in advance if your vehicle tax is expiring soon. If you need to make a vehicle SORN urgently, the online method is strongly recommended.
Making Your Vehicle SORN by Phone
While a direct telephone service for making a SORN declaration is not always widely advertised, you can contact the DVLA directly if you have specific circumstances or require assistance. Usually, this route is used when online or postal methods are not feasible, or if you need clarification on your specific situation. The DVLA’s contact centre can guide you through the process or advise on alternative methods.
It’s important to be aware that the DVLA encourages online declarations due to their efficiency. However, if you face difficulties or have a unique situation, calling the DVLA customer service number (available on the Gov.uk website) is a viable option. Be prepared to provide your vehicle and personal details over the phone to complete the declaration.
When Do You Need to Make a Vehicle SORN?
Understanding the triggers for making a vehicle SORN is as important as knowing how to do it. The primary scenario is when you stop using your vehicle on public roads and do not intend to tax it. This can happen for various reasons, from selling a vehicle to storing it for an extended period. It's a legal obligation to notify the DVLA, either through taxing the vehicle or declaring it SORN, whenever it is kept on a public road. If you stop taxing your vehicle, you must declare it SORN.
The timing of your SORN declaration is crucial. If you are selling a vehicle, the new keeper must tax it immediately. If they do not, and you have not declared it SORN, you could still be held liable for any untaxed period. Therefore, it's prudent to inform the DVLA that you are no longer the keeper of the vehicle using the V5C registration certificate, and if it's not taxed by the new owner, consider making it SORN yourself to avoid complications if the notification doesn't reach DVLA promptly. However, the responsibility for taxing or SORNing a vehicle typically falls to the person who is the keeper at the time the vehicle tax is due or lapses.
Vehicle Tax Expiry
The most common reason for needing to make a vehicle SORN is when your vehicle's current tax disc (VED licence) is about to expire, and you do not intend to renew it. If you do not renew the tax, the vehicle automatically becomes untaxed. At this point, it must be either taxed again or declared SORN. The DVLA will send reminders, but it is your responsibility as the keeper to ensure the vehicle is either taxed or SORNed on the day the existing tax expires.
- If your vehicle tax expires and you do not renew it, and you do not declare it SORN, you will receive an automatic penalty charge notice (PCN) for not having valid VED.
- The SORN declaration is immediate, but if you choose to do it by post, allow sufficient time for delivery and processing. The online method is best for ensuring no gap exists between tax expiry and SORN activation.
It is illegal to drive or keep a vehicle on a public road without valid vehicle tax or a valid SORN declaration.
Storing a Vehicle Long-Term
If you plan to store your vehicle for a significant period – perhaps during a long holiday, a period of illness, or because it's a classic car being kept in a garage – and it will not be used on public roads, then making it SORN is the correct legal procedure. Storing a vehicle in your garage or on private land does not exempt you from the requirement to either tax it or declare it SORN if it is not insured for any reason and is not on a public road. Even if it is insured and on private land, if you are not taxing it for road use, declaring it SORN is the appropriate action.
This ensures you are not liable for road tax during the storage period. It’s important to remember that the vehicle must remain on private property throughout its SORN period. If you decide to use it on a public road again, you must first tax it. The SORN notification typically lasts until you actively tax the vehicle again or until the end of the current licensing period, after which you will need to re-declare it SORN if you don't tax it. However, most SORN declarations effectively remain in force until you next tax the vehicle.
Selling a Vehicle
When you sell a vehicle, the responsibility for its tax and SORN status shifts to the new keeper. However, the process requires careful management to avoid potential penalties. You must inform the DVLA of the change of keeper using the V5C registration certificate. This can be done online or by post. The new keeper is then legally obliged to tax the vehicle immediately if they intend to use it on public roads. If they fail to do so, and you have not declared the vehicle SORN before the sale, you could still be liable for penalties if the new keeper doesn't tax it. To protect yourself:
- Use the V5C: Complete the 'New Keeper's details' section on the V5C and give it to the buyer. You can also do this online via the Gov.uk website for an immediate notification.
- Keep a Record: Note down the new keeper's details and the date of sale.
- If Unsure: If you have concerns that the new keeper might not tax the vehicle promptly, you can declare it SORN yourself after the sale has been completed and DVLA has registered the change of keeper. However, the most straightforward approach is for the new keeper to tax it immediately.
The notification of sale via V5C or online effectively removes you as the keeper. If the vehicle then becomes untaxed and is not declared SORN by the new keeper, DVLA will pursue them. However, ensuring the sale is formally registered with DVLA is your primary safeguard.
The rule is simple: if it's on a public road, it must be taxed. If it's not on a public road and not taxed, it must be SORNed.
Vehicle SORN Declaration: What You Need
To successfully make a vehicle SORN, you'll need to gather specific documentation and information. The DVLA requires these details to confirm the vehicle's identity and link it to the correct keeper. Without the correct information, your declaration might be rejected, potentially leaving you liable for penalties if your vehicle tax expires in the meantime. It’s prudent to have all required items ready before you begin the SORN process, whether you opt for the online, postal, or phone method.
The information required is designed to uniquely identify both your vehicle and yourself as the registered keeper. Missing or incorrect details can lead to delays or rejection, so double-checking everything before submission is essential. The primary identifiers are the vehicle registration number and a unique vehicle identification number specific to your car or other motor vehicle. If you have recently moved or changed your name, ensure your DVLA records are up-to-date, as this information may also be cross-referenced.
Vehicle Registration Number
The vehicle registration number, commonly known as the number plate, is the primary identifier for any vehicle in the UK. This is the unique alphanumeric code displayed on both the front and rear number plates of your vehicle. You will need to provide this exact registration number when making your vehicle SORN. Ensure it is entered precisely as it appears on your number plate and vehicle documents, as errors here will invalidate your declaration.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Engine Number
In addition to the registration number, you will need to provide a unique identification number for the vehicle itself. The DVLA typically asks for one of the following:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This is a 17-character alphanumeric code that is unique to each vehicle. It is often referred to as the chassis number. You can usually find the VIN in several places: on the vehicle itself (e.g., on the dashboard near the windscreen, on a sticker in the driver's side door frame, or in the engine bay), and on your vehicle's V5C registration certificate (log book). The DVLA will ask for an 11-digit version of the VIN for SORN declarations.
- Engine Number: For some older vehicles or specific types of vehicles, the engine number may be used instead of, or in addition to, the VIN. This number is stamped onto the engine block itself. Check your V5C registration document, as it often lists the engine number.
The VIN is the most common identifier requested for modern vehicles, so check your V5C or the vehicle itself for this number.
Your Personal Details
You will also need to provide your personal details as the registered keeper of the vehicle. This typically includes your name and address, which should match the details held by the DVLA on their records for that specific vehicle. If your details have changed recently (e.g., you've moved house or changed your name), you must update them with the DVLA before making your SORN declaration. Failure to do so could result in your declaration being invalid.
You can update your address or name details online via the Gov.uk website. It's a straightforward process that ensures all your official vehicle documentation is current and accurate. Having up-to-date personal information will streamline the SORN process and prevent potential complications.
Vehicle Log Book (V5C)
While not always strictly required to be presented during the online declaration, having your V5C registration certificate (log book) to hand is highly recommended. It serves as your primary source for accurate VIN, engine number, and your registered keeper details. It's the document that officially records the vehicle's details and ownership. If you are making a postal declaration, the V5C will be essential for finding the necessary information to complete the form accurately.
Insurance and Your SORN Vehicle
A common misconception is that if your vehicle is declared SORN, it does not require insurance. This is not entirely true and depends significantly on where the vehicle is kept. While a SORN declaration exempts you from the requirement to have VED (road tax) and insurance *for the purpose of being used on public roads*, it does not necessarily mean you can abandon all insurance responsibilities. The law is specific about where the vehicle must be kept and under what conditions insurance is mandatory.
The general rule is that if your vehicle is kept on a public road, it must be insured, regardless of whether it is declared SORN or taxed. If your vehicle is declared SORN and kept on private property, such as your driveway, garage, or garden, it does not typically need to be insured. However, there are exceptions, and the DVLA strongly advises vehicle owners to check the specific requirements. This distinction is vital to avoid penalties, as enforcement agencies can check for valid insurance, even on untaxed vehicles.
Ensuring your vehicle is correctly insured or correctly SORNed and stored is a critical part of responsible vehicle ownership.
When is Insurance Required for a SORN Vehicle?
Insurance is generally mandatory for a SORN vehicle if it is kept on a public road. This includes situations where the vehicle is parked on the street outside your home, on a driveway that is accessible to the public, or in any location where it could be deemed a public thoroughfare. The purpose of this rule is to cover potential liabilities if the vehicle, despite being off the road for tax purposes, were to cause damage or injury.
If your vehicle is declared SORN and is stored securely off any public road – for example, in a locked garage, a private yard, or on private land that is not accessible to the public – then you are generally not required to have insurance for it. However, it is always prudent to confirm this with your insurance provider and to ensure the storage location is genuinely private and secure.
Check for Insurance with the Motor Insurance Database (MID)
The Motor Insurance Database (MID) is a central record of all insured vehicles in the UK. The DVLA uses this database to check for valid insurance. When a vehicle is SORNed and kept off public roads, it should not appear on the MID as insured unless you have chosen to insure it for fire, theft, or other specific risks while it's stored. If a SORNed vehicle is found on the MID and is also identified as untaxed and off-road, it may raise flags, although the primary check is for untaxed vehicles on public roads.
If you are unsure about your insurance status for a SORNed vehicle, you can check the MID yourself to see if your vehicle is listed. This can help you confirm whether you are compliant with the law regarding where your vehicle is kept. Remember, the penalties for not having valid insurance can be severe, including fines, penalty points, and the vehicle being impounded.
What If I Need to Use My SORN Vehicle on the Road?
If you need to use your SORNed vehicle on a public road, even for a short journey, you must first remove it from the SORN status by taxing it. You cannot simply drive it to the nearest MOT station or garage without it being taxed and insured (if required for its location). The process to remove a vehicle from SORN and prepare it for road use involves:
- Taxing the Vehicle: You must purchase a VED licence for the vehicle. This can be done online, by phone, or at a Post Office branch. Once you tax the vehicle, its SORN status is automatically cancelled.
- Ensuring Insurance: If the vehicle is on a public road, you must have valid insurance for it, which typically requires a current MOT certificate. You cannot tax a vehicle if it requires an MOT and the certificate has expired.
- MOT Certificate: Most vehicles over three years old require a valid MOT certificate to be taxed. Ensure your vehicle has a current MOT before attempting to tax it.
The moment you tax your vehicle, its SORN status is cancelled, and it is legally permitted for use on public roads, provided it also meets insurance and MOT requirements.
What Happens After Making a Vehicle SORN?
Once you have successfully made your vehicle SORN, you are legally bound to ensure it remains off public roads. This declaration is an ongoing commitment until you decide to tax the vehicle again. The DVLA will not send you further notifications about the SORN status unless you instruct them otherwise or re-declare it. It’s your responsibility to manage your vehicle’s status and ensure compliance with the regulations. If your circumstances change, and you wish to use the vehicle on a public road, you must take specific steps to reinstate its road legality.
The SORN declaration itself does not expire in the traditional sense. It remains in effect until you actively tax the vehicle. This means that if you declare your vehicle SORN today, it remains SORN until you choose to purchase a new VED licence for it. This provides flexibility for owners who might be storing a vehicle for an indefinite period or are unsure of their future usage plans. However, it also places a continuous onus on the owner to remember the SORN status and ensure the vehicle is not inadvertently used on public roads without prior re-taxation.
Vehicle Stays Off Public Roads
The most critical consequence of making your vehicle SORN is the absolute requirement to keep it off public roads. This includes streets, pavements, and any other land that is generally accessible to the public. The vehicle must be stored on private property, such as your driveway, garage, or a designated private parking area. If the vehicle is found on a public road while declared SORN, you will likely receive a penalty charge notice (PCN) for driving or keeping an unlicensed vehicle. The DVLA actively checks for untaxed vehicles on public roads, and the SORN status does not provide immunity if the vehicle is in the wrong place.
If you need to move your SORN vehicle on a public road, for instance, to a garage for repairs or to a different storage location, you must do so using a trailer or recovery vehicle. Driving it under its own power on a public road is illegal.
No Road Tax Payments
By declaring your vehicle SORN, you are officially exempt from paying vehicle excise duty (road tax). This is the primary financial benefit of making a vehicle SORN. You will not be required to purchase or display a tax disc, nor will you receive demands for VED payments from the DVLA for the period the vehicle is SORNed. This can lead to significant savings for owners who have vehicles that are off the road for extended durations, such as classic cars, project vehicles, or vehicles undergoing restoration.
Re-Taxing Your Vehicle
When you are ready to use your SORNed vehicle on public roads again, you must first tax it. This process cancels the SORN declaration automatically. You can tax your vehicle online via the Gov.uk website, by phone, or at a Post Office branch. You will need your vehicle registration number and, usually, the 11-digit reference number from your V5C registration certificate or the 16-digit number from your new-keeper supplement (V5C/2) if you've recently bought the vehicle. Once taxed, your vehicle is legal for use on public roads, provided it also meets insurance and MOT requirements.
The DVLA's system is updated instantly when you tax a vehicle, so there is no waiting period. This means that as soon as your VED payment is processed, you can legally drive the vehicle on public roads. Remember that you will need a valid MOT certificate (if applicable for your vehicle's age) before you can tax it. If your MOT has expired, you will need to get it renewed before you can purchase a new VED licence.
What if I Sell a SORN Vehicle?
If you sell a vehicle that is currently declared SORN, the process is similar to selling a taxed vehicle, but with added considerations. You must inform the DVLA of the change of keeper using the V5C registration document. The new keeper is then responsible for the vehicle. If the new keeper intends to use the vehicle on public roads, they must tax it immediately. If they do not tax it, and you have not properly informed DVLA of the sale, you could be held liable. However, the SORN status itself is tied to the keeper and the vehicle’s location.
Once you have correctly notified DVLA of the sale, your responsibility for the vehicle ends. The new keeper must then decide whether to tax the vehicle or declare it SORN themselves. It is always advisable for the seller to use the online service to notify DVLA of the sale, as this is processed immediately and provides a definitive record of the change of ownership. This protects you from any future liabilities related to the vehicle.
Common Mistakes When Making Vehicle SORN
While making a vehicle SORN is a generally straightforward procedure, there are several common pitfalls that can lead to penalties or complications. These errors often stem from misunderstanding the rules, rushing the process, or failing to update records. Being aware of these common mistakes can help you navigate the SORN process smoothly and ensure you remain legally compliant. The DVLA's system is automated, meaning any oversight can quickly result in fines or letters demanding payment for untaxed vehicles.
Many drivers assume that simply parking a vehicle on their private land means it's automatically compliant. However, the legal obligation is to either tax the vehicle or declare it SORN. If the vehicle is not taxed, and it's not SORNed, then the keeper is technically breaking the law. This often happens when a vehicle is stored for a long period, and the owner forgets about the SORN requirement or believes it's unnecessary. Proactive management of your vehicle's status is key to avoiding these issues.
Forgetting to Declare SORN
The most frequent error is simply forgetting to declare the vehicle SORN after its tax disc has expired, especially if the vehicle is not being used. People might assume that because the car is in the garage or on their driveway, no action is needed. However, if the vehicle tax lapses, you must proactively inform the DVLA. Failure to do so means the vehicle is untaxed, and if it’s found on a public road, or even if DVLA systems flag it as untaxed without a valid SORN, you risk penalties. This is why setting reminders for your vehicle's tax expiry date is essential.
The SORN declaration is not automatic; you must initiate it yourself.
Using a SORN Vehicle on a Public Road
Another critical mistake is using a vehicle declared SORN on a public road, even for a brief journey. This is a direct violation of the SORN regulations. Whether you are moving it to a different parking spot, taking it for an MOT, or driving it to a new location, if it's on a public road, it must be taxed and insured (where applicable). The only legal way to move a SORN vehicle on public roads is by using a trailer or another vehicle for towing/transport. Driving it under its own power is illegal and will almost certainly result in penalties.
Incorrect Information Provided to DVLA
Providing inaccurate details when making the SORN declaration, such as an incorrect VIN, engine number, or personal address, can invalidate the SORN. If your details are not up-to-date with DVLA records, the declaration may not be processed correctly. This could mean that DVLA believes the vehicle is untaxed and on a public road, even if you have attempted to declare it SORN. It is vital to ensure all your personal and vehicle details match those held by the DVLA. Always double-check the information you enter, especially when using the online service.
Not Notifying of SORN Status When Selling
When selling a vehicle that is currently SORN, the new keeper must be made aware of its status. The responsibility then falls on the new keeper to either tax the vehicle or declare it SORN themselves. However, as the seller, you must ensure you have properly notified DVLA of the change of keeper. If you fail to do so, and the new keeper doesn't tax or SORN the vehicle, you might still be held liable. The quickest way to notify DVLA of a sale is online, which immediately updates their records and removes you as the keeper.
If you've sold a SORN vehicle and suspect the new keeper may not have taxed or SORNed it, and DVLA has not yet updated your records, you can re-declare it SORN once the sale is officially registered. However, the best practice is to ensure the transfer of keeper details is immediate and accurate.
How Long is a SORN Declaration Valid?
A Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) declaration itself does not have an expiry date. Once you make your vehicle SORN, it remains in that status indefinitely until you take action to change it. This means you do not need to re-declare your vehicle SORN each year or at any specific interval, provided the vehicle continues to be kept off public roads and your circumstances haven't changed.
This continuity is a key feature of the SORN system, designed for owners who plan to keep a vehicle off the road for an extended or unknown period. However, this also means the onus is entirely on you, the vehicle keeper, to remember the vehicle's SORN status and to ensure it is not used on public roads without first being taxed. If you decide to use the vehicle on public roads again, you must purchase a Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) licence. The act of taxing the vehicle automatically cancels its SORN status.
The SORN status persists until you actively change it by taxing the vehicle.
When Does SORN Become Invalid?
A SORN declaration becomes invalid in one primary circumstance: when you tax the vehicle. As soon as you purchase a VED licence for the vehicle, its SORN status is immediately cancelled by the DVLA's system. This allows you to legally drive the vehicle on public roads, provided you also meet insurance and MOT requirements. You can tax your vehicle online, by phone, or at a Post Office branch. Once taxed, the vehicle is no longer declared SORN.
There are other situations that might effectively render your SORN declaration moot, though not strictly invalidating the declaration itself. For instance, if you sell the vehicle, you must inform the DVLA. The new keeper then becomes responsible for the vehicle's tax or SORN status. If the vehicle is scrapped, destroyed, or exported, you must inform the DVLA using the appropriate procedures, which will also terminate its SORN status.
What if my circumstances change?
If your circumstances change and you decide to use a SORN vehicle on a public road, you must first tax it. As mentioned, this automatically cancels the SORN. If your vehicle is declared SORN and is kept on private property, but you later need to move it to a public road for a limited purpose (e.g., taking it to a garage for repairs), you must tax it first. You cannot simply drive it there without taxing it, even if it's just a short distance or for a specific repair.
If you are moving a SORN vehicle that cannot be taxed immediately (e.g., it needs an MOT first), you must arrange for it to be transported using a trailer or recovery vehicle. Driving it on a public road, even for a short, specific purpose without it being taxed, is illegal and could result in penalties.
Selling a SORN Vehicle
When you sell a vehicle that is declared SORN, you must inform the DVLA of the change of keeper using the V5C registration document. The new keeper will then be responsible for deciding whether to tax the vehicle or declare it SORN themselves. The SORN status is effectively tied to the vehicle and its keeper. Once DVLA registers the new keeper, your responsibility for the vehicle's status ends, and the new keeper must ensure it is legally compliant.
It is crucial that the sale is officially recorded with DVLA. If the new keeper fails to tax or SORN the vehicle, and you haven't properly notified DVLA of the sale, you could potentially face penalties. Therefore, always use the online service or the V5C to report the change of keeper as soon as possible after the sale.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Vehicle SORN
The process of making a vehicle SORN can sometimes bring up questions, especially for first-time owners or those unfamiliar with UK vehicle regulations. Understanding these common queries can help clarify the procedure and ensure you avoid any legal trouble. The DVLA provides information, but specific scenarios can still be confusing. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about declaring your vehicle SORN.
Many people wonder about the specific types of vehicles that can be declared SORN or what happens if they forget to update their address. These are valid concerns, as neglecting any aspect of vehicle registration and taxation can lead to unforeseen penalties. The SORN system is designed for clarity and compliance, but individual circumstances often require specific answers. We aim to provide those answers here to ensure you can make your vehicle SORN confidently.
The core principle is to always have a valid tax or SORN for your vehicle.
Do I need to declare my vehicle SORN if it's in my garage?
Yes, if your vehicle is not taxed, you must declare it SORN. This applies whether it's in your garage, on your driveway, or on any private land. The only exemption is if the vehicle is kept on a public road and is, therefore, required to be taxed and insured. If it's off public roads and untaxed, SORN is the legal requirement.
Can I declare my vehicle SORN if I just bought it?
If you have just bought a vehicle and intend to keep it off public roads and do not wish to tax it immediately, you can declare it SORN. However, if the previous keeper has already taxed it for the current period, you should wait until that tax expires before declaring it SORN. The most straightforward approach if you are not using it is for the new keeper to tax it immediately, or if you are sure it will remain off-road, ensure the previous keeper has notified DVLA of the sale, and then declare it SORN yourself once you are the registered keeper.
How do I take a car off SORN?
To take a vehicle off SORN, you need to tax it. You can do this online, by phone, or at a Post Office. Once you purchase a Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) licence, the SORN status is automatically cancelled, and your vehicle is legally permitted for use on public roads, provided it also meets insurance and MOT requirements.
What is the penalty for not declaring SORN?
If your vehicle is untaxed and found on a public road without a valid SORN declaration, you can receive a penalty charge notice (PCN) for non-payment of VED. Fines can range from £80 upwards, and if the vehicle is clamped or impounded, further costs will apply. If the vehicle is kept off-road but DVLA identifies it as untaxed and not SORNed, penalties may still be issued.
Can I still insure a SORN vehicle?
Yes, you can still insure a vehicle that is declared SORN. Many owners choose to do this for vehicles stored long-term, especially classic cars or valuable vehicles, to protect against theft, fire, or damage. This type of insurance is typically called 'laid-up' or 'storage' insurance and is usually cheaper than standard road insurance. It is not a legal requirement unless the vehicle is kept on a public road.
How long does it take to process a SORN declaration by post?
A SORN declaration made by post can take up to two weeks to be processed by the DVLA. Therefore, if your vehicle's tax is expiring soon, it is highly recommended to use the online or phone method for immediate confirmation, or send your postal form well in advance to avoid any gap in compliance.
What happens if I forget to SORN my car before the tax expires?
If you forget to declare your vehicle SORN before your tax expires, and the vehicle is not taxed, it is considered untaxed. If DVLA identifies the vehicle as untaxed and on a public road, you will likely receive a penalty charge notice. To rectify this, you should immediately declare the vehicle SORN online or by phone, and ensure it remains off public roads. If it has already been on a public road, you may still face penalties for the period it was untaxed.