Introduction to SORN
A Statutory Off Road Notification, commonly referred to as a SORN, is a declaration made to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that a vehicle is not being used on public roads. This notification is required by law for any vehicle that is not being used, including those that are being stored, repaired, or sold.
The purpose of a SORN is to inform the DVLA that a vehicle is not liable for road tax, and it also helps to prevent unnecessary fines and penalties. By declaring a vehicle as off the road, owners can avoid paying car tax and MOT fees, as long as the vehicle remains off the road.
When Is a SORN Required?
A SORN is required in various situations, including when a vehicle is being stored, repaired, or sold. If a vehicle is not being used on public roads, it must be declared as off the road to avoid fines and penalties. Additionally, if a vehicle is being kept on private property, such as a driveway or garage, a SORN is still required.
It's also important to note that a SORN is required if a vehicle is being exported or imported, or if it's being scrapped or broken down for parts. In these situations, a SORN must be declared to the DVLA to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
Benefits of Declaring a SORN
Declaring a SORN can have several benefits for vehicle owners, including avoiding car tax and MOT fees. By declaring a vehicle as off the road, owners can save money on these fees, which can be significant, especially for vehicles that are not being used regularly.
Additionally, declaring a SORN can also help to prevent unnecessary fines and penalties. If a vehicle is not being used on public roads, it's not liable for road tax, and declaring a SORN can help to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
Consequences of Not Declaring a SORN
Failing to declare a SORN can have serious consequences, including fines and penalties. If a vehicle is not being used on public roads and a SORN is not declared, the owner may be liable for road tax and MOT fees, even if the vehicle is not being used.
Additionally, if a vehicle is not declared as off the road and is found to be not in use, the owner may face fines and penalties, including a potential fine of up to £1,000. It's therefore essential to declare a SORN if a vehicle is not being used on public roads.
How to Declare a SORN
Declaring a SORN is a straightforward process that can be done online or by post. Vehicle owners can declare a SORN on the GOV.UK website or by completing a V890 form and sending it to the DVLA.
It's essential to declare a SORN as soon as possible to avoid any potential fines or penalties. The DVLA will then update the vehicle's records to reflect that it is off the road, and the owner will not be liable for road tax or MOT fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't declare a SORN?
If you don't declare a SORN, you may face fines and penalties, including a potential fine of up to £1,000, and you may still be liable for road tax and MOT fees.
Can I declare a SORN online?
Yes, you can declare a SORN online on the GOV.UK website, or by completing a V890 form and sending it to the DVLA.
How long does a SORN last?
A SORN lasts for 12 months, after which it must be renewed if the vehicle is still not being used on public roads.
Do I need to declare a SORN if I'm selling my vehicle?
Yes, if you're selling a vehicle that is not being used on public roads, you must declare a SORN to the DVLA to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
Can I use my vehicle on private property if I've declared a SORN?
Yes, you can use your vehicle on private property, such as a driveway or garage, if you've declared a SORN, but you must not use it on public roads.
How do I renew a SORN?
You can renew a SORN online on the GOV.UK website, or by completing a V890 form and sending it to the DVLA, at least 14 days before the current SORN expires.