What is SORN? Benefits and How to Declare SORN for Your Vehicle

If you have a vehicle you're not planning to drive on public roads, you can save on road tax by officially declaring it off the road through a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN).

For those using their vehicles less frequently or temporarily taking them out of use, SORN is a cost-effective way to avoid unnecessary expenses.

This guide provides a comprehensive understanding of what SORN means, when and why it might be necessary, the process to declare or cancel it, and how to get your vehicle back on the road if needed.

What does SORN mean?

SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification

A SORN is an official declaration to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) that a vehicle is being taken off the public roads. By declaring a SORN, you notify the government that the vehicle will not be driven or parked on public highways. Consequently, you are exempt from paying vehicle tax or maintaining insurance while the vehicle is off the road. Declaring a SORN can be beneficial if you plan to store your vehicle for an extended period or if it is not roadworthy.

A SORN is a legal requirement for any vehicle that will not be used on public roads. Failure to declare a SORN while your vehicle is untaxed or uninsured can result in significant penalties. This process ensures compliance with UK laws regarding vehicle tax and insurance while allowing flexibility for vehicle owners who do not need their vehicles for an extended period.

Do You Need to Declare a SORN?

Understanding whether you need to declare a SORN is crucial for staying compliant with DVLA regulations. If you plan to keep your vehicle off public roads and do not wish to pay tax or insurance, you must officially declare a SORN. Here are some scenarios where declaring a SORN is mandatory:

• Vehicle Storage: If your car is being stored in a private garage, driveway, or any private property and will not be used on public roads.
• Untaxed Vehicles: If your car's tax has expired and you do not intend to renew it immediately.
• Uninsured Vehicles: If your car insurance lapses or you decide not to insure the vehicle.
• Long-Term Repairs: If your car is undergoing extensive repairs and will not be roadworthy for an extended period.
• Purchase of a SORN Vehicle: If you buy a vehicle that is already SORN, you must declare a new SORN in your name.

Failure to declare a SORN for an untaxed or uninsured vehicle can lead to fines of up to £1,000 and further penalties.

How to Declare a SORN for Your Vehicle

Declaring a SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification) is simple and can be done through multiple methods. Here's a clear guide:

Steps to Declare a SORN with the DVLA:

1. Online:

a. Visit the official gov.uk SORN page.

b. Use the reference number from your V5C logbook or the new keeper's slip.

c. This is the quickest and easiest method.

2. By Post:

a. Download and complete a V890 form from the DVLA website.

b. Mail the completed form to the DVLA.

3. By Phone:

a. Call the DVLA directly to declare a SORN.

b. Have your vehicle's details and the V5C logbook reference number ready during the call.

Each method ensures that your vehicle is legally declared off the road. Choose the one most convenient for you!

Is Declaring a SORN Necessary for You?

Deciding whether to declare a SORN depends on your circumstances. Here are some benefits and considerations to help you decide:

• Cost Savings: Declaring a SORN allows you to save on vehicle tax and insurance premiums while the car is off the road.
• No Road Use: If you are confident that the vehicle will not be driven or parked on public roads, a SORN can be a practical option.
• Legal Compliance: A SORN ensures that you comply with UK laws regarding untaxed or uninsured vehicles.

However, it is important to note that a SORN restricts you from using the vehicle on public roads, except in specific circumstances, such as driving to a pre-booked MOT test.

When Should You Declare a SORN?

Knowing when to declare a SORN can save you from unnecessary fines and complications. Here are the key instances when you should declare a SORN:

1. Taking a Vehicle Off the Road: If you plan to stop using your vehicle for a prolonged period, such as during extended travel or seasonal storage.

2. Uninsured Vehicles: If your car insurance policy ends and you do not intend to renew it.

3. Expired Tax: If your vehicle tax expires and you do not wish to renew it immediately.

4. Scrapping a Vehicle: If you are preparing to scrap your car and it will no longer be used.

5. Buying a SORN Vehicle: When purchasing a car with an existing SORN, you need to declare a new SORN in your name.

Does a SORN Transfer When You Buy a Vehicle?

No, a SORN does not automatically transfer to the new owner when a vehicle is sold or gifted. If you purchase a vehicle that is already SORN, you must declare a new SORN under your name. Failing to do so can lead to fines and penalties. It is the responsibility of the new owner to ensure that the vehicle is properly registered and SORN declared with the DVLA.

Can You Drive a SORN Vehicle?

Driving a vehicle that has been declared SORN is prohibited on public roads, except under specific conditions. The only exception is when you are driving the vehicle to or from a pre-booked MOT test. In such cases, the vehicle must be insured and roadworthy for the journey.

Driving a SORN vehicle on public roads without meeting these conditions can result in heavy fines, penalty points on your driving license, and possible prosecution.

When Does Your SORN Take Effect?

The effective date of your SORN depends on the method you use to declare it:

• Online or By Phone: The SORN takes effect immediately upon confirmation of your declaration.
• By Post: If you declare a SORN by post, the effective date will be either the date specified in your application or the date the DVLA processes your form, whichever is later.

For instant results, using the online or phone option is recommended. This ensures there is no delay or ambiguity about when your SORN begins. If you are planning to take your vehicle off the road on a specific date, it is essential to plan accordingly and declare your SORN in advance to avoid penalties.

Does Declaring a SORN Affect Car Insurance?

Declaring a SORN exempts you from maintaining mandatory car insurance. However, it is advisable to consider optional insurance coverage, such as fire and theft protection, especially if your vehicle is stored in a garage or private property. This ensures that your car is protected against unforeseen damages or theft while off the road.

Do You Need to Renew a SORN?

One of the advantages of declaring a SORN is that it does not require renewal. A SORN remains valid indefinitely as long as the vehicle stays off the road and untaxed. However, if you decide to use the vehicle on public roads again, you must tax it, which will automatically cancel the SORN.

How to Remove a SORN?

To remove a SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification), you must tax your vehicle and ensure it is insured. Start by visiting the official GOV-UK website and selecting the option to tax your vehicle online. You'll need the vehicle's V5C logbook or the SORN acknowledgement letter for the reference number. Once taxed, ensure you have valid insurance to drive on public roads. After completing these steps, the SORN will automatically be cancelled, and your vehicle will be legally roadworthy. Remember, driving without road tax or insurance is illegal, so ensure everything is in place before moving.

Getting Back on the Road After a SORN

Before driving your vehicle after lifting a SORN, ensure the following:

• Valid Tax: The vehicle must be taxed.
• Valid Insurance: The car must have active insurance coverage.
• MOT Certificate: If applicable, the vehicle must pass its MOT.

Can You Drive a SORN Vehicle for an MOT?

Yes, you are allowed to drive a SORN vehicle to or from a pre-booked MOT test. This is the only instance where driving a SORN vehicle on public roads is permitted. Ensure the vehicle is insured for the journey and that the test is genuinely pre-booked to avoid penalties.

Where Can You Keep a SORN Vehicle?

A SORN vehicle must be stored on private property. Suitable locations include:

• Private Garage: An enclosed space where the vehicle is safe from environmental damage and theft.
• Driveway:A private driveway is another acceptable location for storing a SORN vehicle.
• Other Private Land: Any other private property where the vehicle is not accessible to the public.

It is illegal to keep a SORN vehicle on public roads, including parking spaces and residential streets.

SORN Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions Clarified

When it comes to Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN), there are several misconceptions that can confuse vehicle owners. Let's address and debunk the most common myths to provide clarity.

Myth 1: A SORN Automatically Transfers to a New Owner

Fact: A SORN does not transfer if you sell or gift the vehicle to someone else. The new owner must declare SORN again if they intend to keep the vehicle off the road.

Myth 2: A SORN Vehicle Can Be Parked on Any Private Land

Fact: A SORN vehicle must be kept on private property that you have legal access to, such as a driveway or garage. You cannot park it on public roads, even temporarily, or in spaces like communal parking areas without permission.

Myth 3: SORN Is Only for Long-Term Non-Use

Fact: You can declare a SORN even for short-term non-use. For example, if you plan to store your car during winter or for repairs that take weeks, a SORN can save you on road tax and insurance costs.

Myth 4: Insurance Is Not Required for a SORN Vehicle

Fact: While insurance isn't legally required for a SORN vehicle, it's wise to maintain coverage for fire, theft, or accidental damage, especially if the vehicle is valuable.

Myth 5: You Can Drive a SORN Vehicle to a Car Wash or Service Center

Fact: The only time you can drive a SORN vehicle on public roads is to a pre-booked MOT test. Driving it for any other reason, including maintenance or cleaning, is illegal and can result in fines.

Myth 6: SORN Automatically Cancels Road Tax and Insurance

Fact: Declaring SORN cancels your vehicle tax, but you'll need to contact your insurance provider to adjust or pause your coverage if needed.

Myth 7: SORN Is a Complicated Process

Fact: Declaring SORN is a straightforward process. You can do it online through the official GOV.UK SORN portal, by phone, or using the V890 form.

Myth 8: A SORN Must Be Renewed Annually

Fact: SORN remains valid indefinitely until the vehicle is taxed, sold, or scrapped. There is no need to renew it every year.

Myth 9: A SORN Vehicle Cannot Be Sold

Fact: You can sell a vehicle with SORN status. However, the SORN will not transfer to the buyer, and they will need to declare SORN if the car remains off-road.

Myth 10: You Cannot Cancel SORN Once Declared

Fact: SORN can be lifted by taxing the vehicle and obtaining insurance. This allows you to legally drive it on public roads again.

Frequently Asked Questions About SORN

1. How Long Is a SORN Valid For?

A SORN is valid indefinitely if the vehicle remains off the road and untaxed.

2. Can I SORN My Car Online?

Yes, the easiest way to declare a SORN is through the gov.uk SORN page.

3. What Happens If I Drive a SORN Car?

Driving a SORN vehicle on public roads without a valid exception (e.g., to an MOT test) can result in significant fines and legal consequences.

4. Do I Need to Notify My Insurance Company About a SORN?

While not mandatory, informing your insurance provider about a SORN can help you adjust your coverage to save costs or ensure adequate protection against theft or damage.

5. Can I Cancel a SORN Once Declared?

Yes, you can cancel a SORN by taxing your vehicle. Once taxed, the SORN is automatically lifted, allowing you to drive legally on public roads again.

6. Is There a Fee for Declaring SORN?

No, declaring a SORN is free of charge through official DVLA channels.

7. Can I SORN a Vehicle I Don't Own?

No, only the registered keeper of a vehicle can declare a SORN.

Conclusion

Declaring a SORN is an effective way to manage a vehicle that will not be used on public roads. It allows you to legally avoid paying road tax and insurance costs for the period the vehicle is off the road, providing significant savings while ensuring compliance with government regulations.

To make the most of this process, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the steps involved in declaring a SORN and the benefits it offers. Additionally, understanding how the SORN status may impact aspects such as insurance or other coverage is crucial for making informed decisions.

Taking the time to plan and understand these details can help you avoid unnecessary penalties, maintain proper documentation, and manage your vehicle responsibly while it remains off the road.