SORN — Statutory Off Road Notification — is the process of telling the DVLA that your vehicle is being taken off the road. It's free to do, and understanding when and how to use it can save you money.
When Should You SORN?
You should declare SORN if your car will be off the road for more than a month. Common reasons include:
- The car is laid up for winter or during a long holiday.
- You're carrying out a lengthy restoration or repair project.
- The car has failed its MOT and you're deciding whether to repair or scrap it.
- You simply don't need the car for an extended period.
How to Declare SORN
You can SORN your vehicle:
- Online at gov.uk (quickest method)
- By phone on 0300 123 4321
- By post using the V890 form
You'll need your V5C logbook reference number or your V11 tax reminder letter. SORN is free and takes effect immediately.
What SORN Means in Practice
- No road tax needed — You'll get an automatic refund for any full months remaining on your tax.
- No insurance required — Although keeping comprehensive cover is advisable if the car has value (fire, theft, flood damage can still occur off-road).
- No MOT needed — But the car must have a valid MOT to be driven on public roads again.
- Must be kept off public roads — This means on your driveway, in a garage, or on private land. Not on the street, even outside your house.
Important Rules
- You can drive a SORN'd car on a public road to a pre-booked MOT appointment (and back if it passes).
- SORN lasts indefinitely — you don't need to renew it each year.
- It ends automatically when you tax the vehicle again, sell it, or scrap it.
- Driving a SORN'd car on public roads (other than to/from an MOT) can result in a fine of up to £2,500.
Putting Your Car Back on the Road
To reverse a SORN, you need to:
- Get a valid MOT (if the previous one has expired).
- Arrange insurance.
- Tax the vehicle.
You can check your car's current tax and MOT status with MOTChecker before getting it back on the road.