If you’re taking your car off the road for an extended period, declaring it as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) could save you money by removing the need to tax your vehicle while it’s not being used.
Whether you’re storing a classic car, carrying out repairs or simply won’t be driving for a while, understanding the SORN process is important. For more practical motoring advice, visit our maintenance guidance hub, where you’ll find helpful guides covering tax, insurance and vehicle maintenance.
Here’s everything you need to know about SORNing your car.
What Does SORN Mean?
SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification.
When you declare your vehicle as SORN, you’re officially informing the DVLA that it won’t be used or parked on a public road.
A SORN vehicle:
- Cannot be driven on public roads (except to a pre-booked MOT test)
- Must be kept on private land, such as a driveway, garage or private car park
- Does not require vehicle tax while it’s off the road
In most cases, you can also cancel your insurance if the vehicle won’t be driven, although it’s often worth considering laid-up insurance to protect it while in storage.
When Should You SORN a Vehicle?
Drivers commonly apply for a SORN if their vehicle is:
- Being restored or repaired
- Stored over winter
- Not currently in use
- Waiting to be sold
- Kept as a classic vehicle
- Off the road for an extended period
If your car will remain parked on a public road, you cannot declare it as SORN.
How to SORN a Car
Applying for a SORN is straightforward and free.
You can apply:
- Online via GOV.UK
- By telephone
- By post
The quickest method is the official DVLA online service.
You’ll normally need:
- The 11-digit reference number from your V5C logbook
or
- The 16-digit reference number from your latest vehicle tax reminder (V11)
Once submitted, your SORN normally takes effect immediately or from the beginning of the following month, depending on the option you choose.
Can You SORN a Car Without a Logbook?
Yes.
If you don’t have your V5C logbook, you can still apply using your latest V11 tax reminder if you have one.
If you’ve lost your V5C altogether, you’ll need to apply for a replacement through the DVLA before carrying out certain transactions involving the vehicle.
How Long Does a SORN Last?
Unlike vehicle tax, a SORN does not need renewing every year.
It remains in place until one of the following happens:
- You tax the vehicle again
- You sell the vehicle
- You export the vehicle
- The vehicle is scrapped
If ownership changes, the existing SORN does not transfer to the new keeper.
Does It Cost Anything to SORN a Car?
No.
Making a Statutory Off Road Notification is completely free.
You’ll also automatically receive a refund for any complete remaining months of vehicle tax after your SORN begins.
Can You Drive a SORN Vehicle?
In almost every situation, no.
A SORN vehicle cannot be driven on public roads.
The main exception is travelling directly to or from a pre-booked MOT test.
Driving a SORN vehicle illegally could result in:
- Vehicle tax penalties
- Fixed penalties
- Prosecution
- Your vehicle being clamped or impounded
What Happens If You Don’t Tell the DVLA?
If you stop taxing your vehicle without declaring a SORN, the DVLA will assume the vehicle should still be taxed.
This could lead to:
- Financial penalties
- Vehicle tax arrears
- Enforcement action
Submitting a SORN ensures your records remain accurate and helps avoid unnecessary fines.
You may also find How to Change the Ownership of a Car useful if you’re planning to sell your vehicle once it’s back on the road.
Before Taking Your Car Off the Road
Before declaring a SORN, it’s worth making sure your vehicle is properly stored.
Consider:
- Inflating tyres correctly
- Disconnecting or maintaining the battery
- Keeping the vehicle clean
- Covering the vehicle if stored outside
Proper storage helps preserve your car while it’s not being driven.
If you’re deciding whether to keep or sell your vehicle instead, knowing How You Can Sell Your Car Fast? explains the quickest ways to sell your car.
Thinking of Valuing Instead?
If your car is sitting unused, selling it could be a better option than keeping it off the road.
Jamjar.com lets you compare offers from trusted UK car buyers, receive a free instant valuation and choose the offer that works best for you.
There are no hidden fees, no obligation to sell and the entire process is completed online.