Do I need to SORN my car before I scrap it?
A car that’s heading to the scrapyard is permanently coming off the road, so many people assume it must be declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) before scrapping. But in most cases, SORN is not required purely for scrapping.
Here’s how it works.
If Your Car Is Not Currently SORNed
If the vehicle you’re scrapping is taxed and not SORNed, you do not need to declare it SORN before scrapping.
You can:
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Drive it legally to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), provided it is taxed, insured and has a valid MOT
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Or arrange for it to be collected
Once the vehicle is scrapped through an ATF:
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A Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is issued (usually within 7 days)
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The DVLA database is updated
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Your responsibility for the vehicle ends
You must still complete the correct V5C section and notify the DVLA to ensure the vehicle is deregistered properly.
If you’d like a full breakdown of how the scrapping process works step-by-step, our guide on how to scrap your car explains everything clearly.
If Your Car Is Already SORNed
If your vehicle is already SORNed, you can still scrap it — but you cannot drive it on public roads.
Instead, you must:
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Arrange transport to the scrapyard
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Or book a collection service
Most authorised scrap services offer collection as part of the process.
Outside of transport requirements, the rest of the scrapping process remains the same.
What If You Want to Remove Parts Before Scrapping?
If you plan to remove parts before scrapping the vehicle, you must declare the car SORN before removing any components.
Once parts are removed and the car is SORNed:
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It cannot be driven
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Transport to the ATF must be arranged
This protects you legally and ensures compliance with DVLA rules.
For a broader overview of scrapping regulations, documentation, and legal responsibilities, visit our Car Scrapping Guidance hub.
Ready to Scrap Your Car?
If your vehicle is ready to be scrapped, the process can be simple and fully compliant when handled correctly.
You can begin here.
Using an authorised service ensures the vehicle is disposed of legally, responsibly, and without future liability.
