Everything You Need to Know About Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN)
If you own a car or vehicle that is not being used on the road, it’s important to notify the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). This legally ensures that your vehicle is off the road and not liable for road tax or insurance. Here’s a guide to understanding SORN, why it matters, and how to do it.
What is a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN)?
A Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) is a legal declaration to the DVLA that a vehicle is currently off the road and not being used or parked on public roads. By making this declaration, you avoid being charged for road tax and ensure you are complying with UK vehicle laws.
When you declare SORN, you do not need to tax, insure, or MOT your vehicle unless you intend to use it on public roads again.
Key Points:
- A SORN applies to cars, motorcycles, vans, and other vehicles.
- The vehicle must be kept off public roads while under SORN.
- The vehicle cannot be driven or parked on public roads until it is taxed and insured again.
Why Should You Declare a SORN?
There are several important reasons why you should declare a Statutory Off Road Notification when your vehicle is not being used.
1. Avoid Unnecessary Costs:
- If your vehicle is not being driven or used on public roads, declaring a SORN ensures you won’t have to pay road tax or insurance for a vehicle that’s off the road.
2. Legal Compliance:
- Not declaring a SORN for a vehicle that isn’t being used on the road can result in fines. The DVLA has the authority to fine you up to £1,000 if you fail to notify them about a vehicle that should be off the road.
3. Protect Your Vehicle from Being Impounded:
- If the DVLA identifies that a vehicle isn’t taxed and is parked on public roads, it could be impounded, which could lead to further costs and complications.
4. Peace of Mind:
- A SORN means you’re not at risk of legal action for not having tax or insurance on a vehicle that is not in use.
How to Declare a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN)
Declaring a SORN is a quick and simple process. You can do it online, by phone, or by post. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Online (Fastest Method)
- Visit the DVLA Website: Go to the official DVLA website.
- Provide Vehicle Details: Enter your vehicle’s registration number and reference number from your V5C registration certificate.
- Confirm the SORN: Once submitted, you’ll receive immediate confirmation, and your vehicle will be marked as off the road.
2. By Phone
- Call the DVLA’s automated service at 0300 123 4321.
- Follow the instructions and provide the necessary vehicle details.
- You’ll receive confirmation by post within a few days.
3. By Post (Using Your V5C)
- Fill out the section of your V5C registration certificate marked “SORN.”
- Send the completed form to the DVLA address provided on the form.
- You’ll receive confirmation by post within a few days.
Important Notes:
- You can only declare a SORN if the vehicle is currently not being used on the road (i.e., it must not be parked or driven on public roads).
- Once a SORN is in place, you must keep your vehicle off the road at all times unless you tax, insure, or MOT it again.
- If you later decide to use the vehicle on public roads, you will need to re-tax and re-insure it.