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SORN, or Statutory Off-Road Notification, is essential if you plan to keep your car off the road and wish to avoid paying tax and insurance on it. Here’s a guide on how to apply for it.
- What is SORN?
- When do I need to make a SORN?
- Can I Drive My Car if it has a SORN?
- Where Can I Keep a SORN Vehicle?
- How to SORN a Car
- How Much Does a SORN Cost?
- Can I SORN My Car if I Don’t Have a Log Book?
- How Long Before the SORN Starts After Applying?
- How Long is SORN Valid For?
- How to Un-SORN a Car
- What Happens if I Don’t Apply for a SORN?
- Will I Get a Car Tax Refund?
- Do I Need Car Insurance if I SORN My Car?
- Can I Check if a Vehicle is Declared SORN?
- Frequently asked questions
What is SORN?
Understanding SORN
A SORN stands for Statutory Off-Road Notification. It’s a formal declaration to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that your vehicle will not be used on public roads.
This notification is crucial for those who intend to stop driving their vehicle for a period. Upon submitting a SORN, the vehicle’s status is updated on the DVLA’s Motor Insurance Database (MID), a comprehensive record of all insured vehicles in the UK.
Implications of Declaring SORN
When a vehicle is declared as SORN, it means it cannot be driven, and it’s illegal to even park it on a public road. The vehicle must be kept on private land, such as in a driveway or garage, or on a personal plot of land.
This rule ensures that vehicles not in use do not occupy public spaces and are exempt from certain legal requirements, like insurance and road tax.
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When do I need to make a SORN?
Circumstances for Declaring SORN
A Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) is necessary in several situations:
- Lack of Tax or Insurance: If your vehicle is not taxed or insured, even briefly, you need to declare SORN.
- Vehicle Purchases for Future Use: Upon buying a vehicle that you plan to modify or repair before driving.
- Inoperable or Damaged Vehicles: For cars that are damaged, non-functional, or undergoing repairs, and thus, won’t be on the road.
- Dismantling for Parts or Scrapping: If you intend to break down the vehicle for parts before scrapping it.
Financial Benefits of SORN
Declaring your vehicle as off-road with a SORN can be financially advantageous:
- Classic Cars: For classic car enthusiasts who store their vehicles during winter or off-season.
- Pending Repairs: If your car requires repairs that you’re not ready to undertake immediately.
- Student Drivers: For students who are away at university and won’t be using their car.
Important Considerations
Insurance and Safety Concerns
While a SORN can save money on road tax and insurance, it’s important to note that an uninsured car won’t be covered in case of damage, vandalism, or theft. This lack of cover is a critical consideration, especially for valuable or at-risk vehicles.
Legal Compliance
Making a SORN is not just about saving money; it’s also about complying with legal requirements. A car without SORN that’s not insured or taxed can lead to legal penalties. Therefore, understanding and following the rules around SORN is crucial for car owners.
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Can I Drive My Car if it has a SORN?
Restrictions on Driving a SORN Vehicle
A vehicle with a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) is strictly prohibited from being driven on public roads. The only exception to this rule is for specific circumstances related to vehicle testing:
Travel to and from MOT Testing
- Pre-Booked MOT: The only time you’re allowed to drive a SORN-declared car on public roads is when travelling to and from a pre-booked MOT (Ministry of Transport) test or other legally required vehicle inspections.
- Documentation Required: It’s essential to have proof of the MOT appointment when driving the SORN vehicle to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Severe Penalties: Driving a SORN vehicle on public roads for any purposes other than the aforementioned can lead to significant legal consequences.
- Financial Ramifications: If found driving a SORN car under non-exempt circumstances, you could face prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500.
Importance of Adherence
- Legal Obligation: It is crucial to strictly adhere to these regulations as they are enforced to ensure that vehicles not meeting road safety and insurance standards are not used on public roads.
- Safety Considerations: These rules are also in place to protect the safety of the driver and other road users, as vehicles declared SORN may not always be in roadworthy condition.
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Where Can I Keep a SORN Vehicle?
Suitable Locations for a SORN Vehicle
When your car is declared under a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN), it’s crucial to store it correctly:
Private Property Options
- Driveways and Garages: These are ideal places to keep a SORN vehicle as they are on private property and ensure the vehicle is not on public roads.
- Private Land: A private plot of land owned or legally accessible to the vehicle owner is another acceptable location.
Prohibited Areas
- Public Roads: A SORN vehicle is strictly forbidden from being parked on any public road.
- Residential Streets: Even if you have a residential permit or there are no specific parking restrictions, a SORN vehicle cannot be parked on the street outside your home or in any publicly accessible area.
Considerations When Lacking Private Space
Legal Requirements for Street Parking
- No SORN Eligibility: If the only available parking option is a public street, declaring a SORN is not possible.
- Continued Legal Obligations: In such cases, the vehicle must remain taxed, have a valid MOT certificate, and be properly insured, even if it is not being used regularly.
Importance of Compliance
- Avoiding Penalties: Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to legal penalties, including fines.
- Community Considerations: Keeping a SORN vehicle off public streets is also respectful of community space and local regulations.
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How to SORN a Car
Methods to Apply for SORN
Declaring a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) requires contacting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). There are several ways to do this:
Online Application
- DVLA Website: The most convenient method is applying online through the DVLA’s official website. This service is available 24/7.
Telephone Service
- Phone Number: You can also apply by phone by calling 0300 123 4321. This is a 24-hour service, making it accessible at any time.
Postal Application
- V890 Form: For those preferring or requiring postal communication, complete a V890 form [PDF].
- Mailing Address: Send the form to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR.
Required Information for SORN
Essential Documentation
- Reference Number: To complete the SORN application, you need a reference number, which can be found in the following documents:
- V5C (Vehicle Log Book): This is the most common document used for reference.
- V11 Reminder Letter: If you have recently received a reminder about your vehicle tax, this letter will also contain the necessary reference number.
Additional Considerations
Timing and Confirmation
- Immediate Effect or Specific Date: You can choose for the SORN to take effect immediately or from a specific date.
- Confirmation from DVLA: Once the application is processed, DVLA will send a confirmation. It’s important to keep this confirmation as proof of your SORN declaration.
Renewal and Re-taxing
- No Annual Renewal: SORN does not need to be renewed annually. It remains in place until you tax the vehicle, sell it, or scrap it.
- Re-taxing the Vehicle: To use the vehicle on public roads again, you must re-tax it and ensure it has a valid MOT and insurance.
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How Much Does a SORN Cost?
Cost of Declaring SORN
Declaring a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) is typically free of charge. There are no fees associated with submitting a SORN application to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Free Online, Phone, and Postal Applications
- Online Application: Applying for SORN via the DVLA’s website is completely free.
- Telephone Service: Similarly, declaring SORN over the phone incurs no cost.
- Postal Application: Sending the V890 form by post also does not require any payment.
Potential Additional Costs
Replacement of Vehicle Log Book (V5C)
- Log Book Fee: The only scenario where a cost might be incurred is if you need a new vehicle log book (V5C). If your V5C is lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed, and you need a replacement to complete your SORN application, this will cost £25.
- Process for Replacement: To get a replacement V5C, you can apply online or by post. This process is separate from the SORN application.
Overall Financial Consideration
- Cost-Effective Option: Since SORN itself is free, it is a cost-effective option for vehicle owners who do not intend to use their vehicle for a period and wish to save on tax and insurance costs.
- Ensuring Compliance: It’s important to factor in the potential need for a replacement V5C when planning to declare a vehicle off-road, to ensure you can comply with all requirements for making a SORN.
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Can I SORN My Car if I Don’t Have a Log Book?
Requirement of a Log Book for SORN
To declare a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) for your vehicle, having a log book (V5C) is mandatory. The V5C document is essential as it proves your ownership of the vehicle.
Essential for SORN Application
- V5C Necessity: The log book contains vital information required for the SORN process, including the reference number needed to complete the application.
Process for Getting a Replacement Log Book
When You Don’t Have a V5C
- V62 Application Form: If your log book has been lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed, you must apply for a replacement using a V62 application form.
- Application Submission: This form needs to be filled out and sent to the DVLA.
Downloading Forms
- DVLA Website: The V62 form [PDF], and other relevant forms, can be downloaded from the DVLA’s official website.
- Alternative Methods: If you cannot access the forms online, they are also available at Post Office branches.
Additional Information
Cost and Timeframe
- Fee for New Log Book: There is a fee of £25 for issuing a replacement V5C.
- Processing Duration: The process of getting a new log book may take several weeks, so it’s important to plan accordingly if you need to SORN your vehicle.
Importance of a Log Book
- Legal Ownership Proof: The V5C log book is a critical document that proves your legal ownership and is required for various administrative tasks, including SORN declaration.
- Future Considerations: Keeping the log book safe and updated is essential for any future dealings with your vehicle, such as selling, scrapping, or re-taxing.
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How Long Before the SORN Starts After Applying?
Immediate Start of SORN
The start of a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) depends on specific circumstances related to your vehicle’s tax status and the timing of your application.
Conditions for Instant Activation
- Expired Car Tax: If your vehicle’s road tax has already expired at the time of your SORN application, the SORN takes effect immediately.
- Application Outside Tax Expiry Month: Similarly, if you apply for SORN in a month that is not the same as your car tax expiry month, the SORN starts immediately upon application.
Delayed Start of SORN
Applying During Tax Expiry Month
- Start Date in Following Month: If you apply for a SORN during the same month that your car tax is due to expire, the SORN will not start immediately. Instead, it will commence on the first day of the next month.
Understanding the Timing
Strategic Planning
- Plan Your Application: Knowing these rules can help you plan the best time to apply for SORN, depending on your needs and the status of your vehicle’s tax.
Legal Compliance
- Avoiding Penalties: Ensuring that the SORN starts at the appropriate time is crucial for legal compliance. Driving or parking a vehicle on public roads without valid tax and without a SORN in place can lead to penalties.
Confirmation from DVLA
- Receiving Notification: After applying for SORN, you will receive confirmation from the DVLA regarding the start date of the SORN. Keep this confirmation for your records.
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How Long is SORN Valid For?
A Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) remains effective indefinitely. This means it stays valid until you decide to take certain actions with your vehicle. Specifically, SORN is no longer valid when you:
-
Tax Your Vehicle: Once you choose to tax your vehicle, the SORN status is automatically cancelled. You must tax your vehicle if you intend to drive it or park it on public roads in the UK.
-
Scrap Your Vehicle: If your vehicle is scrapped, the SORN ceases to be relevant, as the vehicle is no longer in existence or eligible for use.
-
Permanently Export the Vehicle: Should you decide to permanently take the vehicle out of the UK, the SORN status is voided, as it only applies within the UK.
It’s crucial to note that SORN does not need yearly renewal. Once applied, it stays in place until one of the above actions is taken, making it a convenient option for those who do not plan to use their vehicle for an extended period.
However, remember to tax your vehicle or reapply for SORN if you bring a previously SORNed vehicle back into use, then take it off the road again.
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How to Un-SORN a Car
Understanding SORN Cancellation
When you no longer need the Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) for your vehicle, cancelling the SORN is straightforward. There’s no specific process you need to follow to un-SORN a car. Instead, the DVLA automatically cancels the SORN under certain conditions.
Actions Leading to SORN Cancellation
- Applying for Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): Once you apply for car tax, the SORN is immediately invalidated.
- Selling the Car: Selling your vehicle will result in the cancellation of its SORN status.
- Scrapping the Vehicle: If the car is scrapped, the SORN ceases to apply.
- Exporting the Car Permanently: Sending your car abroad for permanent use will automatically cancel its SORN.
Requirements for Driving the Vehicle
After the SORN is cancelled, ensure the following to legally drive your car on the road:
- Valid Car Insurance: It’s crucial to have up-to-date car insurance.
- Valid MOT Certificate: Your vehicle must have a current MOT certificate.
Remember, as soon as any of these actions are initiated, the DVLA is notified, and the SORN status of your vehicle is automatically removed.
You can then legally drive your car on public roads, provided you meet the insurance and MOT requirements.
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What Happens if I Don’t Apply for a SORN?
Consequences of Not Declaring a SORN
Not declaring a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) when your vehicle is not insured and not in use can lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
Insurance Advisory Letter
- Receipt of an Insurance Advisory Letter: If your car is not listed as insured on the Motor Insurance Database (MID) and you haven’t declared a SORN, you will receive an Insurance Advisory Letter. This letter serves as a warning and confirmation that your car is uninsured.
Legal and Financial Penalties
- Financial Penalties and Legal Repercussions:
- Automatic £80 Fine: You may be fined automatically for not having a SORN in place.
- Fixed Penalty: There’s a possibility of a fixed penalty fine of £100.
- Vehicle Seizure: Your vehicle could be at risk of being clamped, impounded, or even destroyed if it remains uninsured and untaxed.
- Prosecution Risks: In severe cases, you might face prosecution with the potential of a fine up to £1,000.
Ensuring Compliance
- Tax and Insurance Requirements:
- Vehicle Tax: It’s essential to ensure that your vehicle is taxed if it’s in use or not declared as SORN.
- Insurance: Arranging valid insurance immediately is crucial to avoid penalties.
Verifying Insurance Status
- Checking Insurance Status:
- askMID: To confirm whether your vehicle is insured, you can check online at the askMID website.
It is important to understand that these penalties apply even if the vehicle is not being driven. Therefore, ensuring that your vehicle is either insured or declared as SORN is vital to avoid these significant penalties.
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Will I Get a Car Tax Refund?
Process of Getting a Refund After Filing a SORN
Filing a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) with the DVLA leads to the cancellation of your vehicle tax. This action triggers the process for a car tax refund.
Car Tax Refund Details
- Automatic Refund Calculation: The DVLA automatically calculates your refund based on any full remaining months of car tax.
- Refund Method: You will receive a refund in the form of a cheque from the DVLA.
- Refund Timeframe: The refund covers the period of any full months left on your vehicle tax from the date the SORN is effective.
Action if Refund is Delayed
- Procedure for Delays:
- Waiting Period: If you do not receive your refund cheque within eight weeks of filing a SORN, it’s essential to take further action.
- Contacting DVLA: Reach out to the DVLA to inquire about the delay. It’s important to provide them with relevant information about your vehicle and the SORN declaration to assist in resolving the issue.
Additional Considerations
- Understanding Refund Eligibility:
- Eligibility for Refund: Note that refunds are only applicable for full remaining months. Partial month refunds are not provided.
- Notification of Refund: The DVLA should send you a confirmation once your SORN is processed, indicating your eligibility for a refund.
By filing a SORN, you inform the DVLA that your vehicle is off the road, which automatically entitles you to a refund for any full remaining months of paid car tax. Remember, the refund process is typically automatic, but it’s important to monitor it and contact the DVLA if there are unexpected delays.
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Do I Need Car Insurance if I SORN My Car?
Insurance Requirements with a SORN
When your vehicle is declared Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), the legal requirement for car insurance is waived. However, there are important considerations to weigh regarding maintaining insurance cover.
Considering Optional Insurance
- Benefits of Retaining Insurance:
- Protection Against Risks: Keeping insurance can protect your vehicle against risks like fire, theft, and vandalism.
- Comprehensive Cover: Opting for a limited, comprehensive policy could offer peace of mind, safeguarding against unforeseen incidents.
Managing Your Current Insurance Policy
- Dealing with Existing Insurance:
- Cancellation Fees: Be aware that cancelling your current insurance policy might incur a cancellation fee.
- Policy Suspension: Some insurance providers allow you to suspend your policy temporarily while your car is under a SORN. This can be a convenient option to avoid the process of cancelling and then re-applying for insurance.
- Refund Possibilities: Discuss with your insurance provider if they offer partial refunds for the unused portion of your premium.
Taking the Next Steps
- Action Steps:
- Review Policy Documents: It’s crucial to check your insurance policy documents for details regarding cancellation or suspension.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: Have a conversation with your insurance company to understand your options better and to make an informed decision about whether to maintain, suspend, or cancel your insurance while your car is SORN.
Weighing Pros and Cons
- Assessing Your Needs:
- Risk Assessment: Consider the location and security of where your vehicle will be stored while SORN to evaluate the necessity of insurance.
- Financial Considerations: Balance the cost of maintaining insurance against the potential risks and fees associated with cancelling or suspending your policy.
Deciding whether to keep your car insured while it’s declared SORN is a personal decision that depends on various factors, including the potential risks to your vehicle and the financial implications of your insurance policy terms.
It’s advisable to thoroughly assess your situation and consult with your insurance provider to make the best choice for your circumstances.
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Can I Check if a Vehicle is Declared SORN?
Verifying SORN Status Online
Confirming whether a vehicle is declared with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) is a straightforward process, easily done through the DVLA’s online services.
Steps to Check SORN Status
- Accessing DVLA’s Website: Visit the DVLA website to initiate the SORN status check.
- Required Information: To perform the check, you will need the vehicle’s registration number (number plate).
- Completing the Check: Follow the prompts on the DVLA website to input the vehicle registration number and access the SORN status information.
Importance of Checking SORN Status
Checking a vehicle’s SORN status can be particularly useful in various situations, such as:
- Buying a Used Vehicle: To ensure the vehicle you’re interested in purchasing is not currently declared SORN.
- Legal Compliance: Verifying that your own vehicle’s SORN status is accurately recorded, especially if it’s not in use.
- Insurance Considerations: To confirm if a vehicle should be insured or if it’s legally off the road.
The DVLA’s online service offers a quick and efficient way to confirm a vehicle’s SORN status, ensuring transparency and ease of access for vehicle owners and potential buyers.
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Frequently asked questions
No, declaring your car as SORN does not automatically cancel your car insurance. When you make a SORN declaration, it’s important to remember that you must actively cancel your car insurance policy.
Failing to do so means your insurance will remain in effect, and you will continue to be charged.
Be aware that cancelling your car insurance may involve cancellation fees. These fees can vary depending on your insurance provider. Additionally, if you used a broker to arrange your policy, they might impose their own charges for cancellation.
It’s advisable to check the terms of your policy or consult your broker for specific details. For more guidance on how to cancel your car insurance, consider seeking further information from your insurer or a financial advisor.
No, you cannot drive a SORN-registered car to your home. The only legal exception for driving a SORN-registered vehicle on public roads is when you are heading to a pre-booked MOT test.
It’s crucial to have proof of your MOT appointment; without this, you risk prosecution. If caught driving a SORN-registered car without valid justification, such as travelling to an MOT test, you could face severe penalties, including a fine of up to £2,500.
Always ensure that you adhere to these regulations to avoid legal issues and significant fines.
Yes, selling a SORN car is completely legal. However, the new owner must be aware that they can legally drive the car on public roads only under specific circumstances.
This includes travelling directly to or from a pre-arranged MOT appointment. Outside of these conditions, the car should not be used on public roads until it is properly taxed and insured by the new owner.
Both the seller and the buyer need to understand these restrictions to ensure compliance with the law.
No, you cannot legally drive a SORN car to an MOT test without insurance in the UK. It is a legal requirement to have valid insurance cover when driving on public roads, even if the car is SORN and you are driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment.
Ensure that you have the necessary insurance in place before driving a SORN vehicle to avoid any legal issues or penalties.
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