SORN Explained - What You Need to Know
Published Date: 21st Nov 2023
Are you currently contemplating taking your vehicle off the road? If so, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) process. This comprehensive guide to SORN will provide you with all the necessary information, covering its definition, when and why you should declare it, how the process works, and the important factors to consider before making this decision. By delving into the intricacies of SORN, you will be equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate this situation confidently and make informed choices regarding your vehicle.
What is SORN?
SORN means Statutory Off Road Notification and is a legal requirement in the United Kingdom. It is a declaration made to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to register a vehicle as off the road. This means the vehicle cannot be driven on public roads under SORN status. By declaring SORN, vehicle owners can avoid paying vehicle tax and insurance while not in use. It is an important process to ensure compliance with UK road regulations and manage the status of vehicles temporarily taken off the road.
Why Declare SORN?
Declaring SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) is crucial if you have no plans to drive your vehicle on public roads. By registering for SORN, you can avoid paying vehicle tax and ensure compliance with the law. It is a straightforward process that helps you legally declare that your vehicle will not be used on public roads.
Failure to declare SORN can have legal consequences, including fines. The fines for not declaring SORN start at £80 and can potentially escalate to £1,000 in a court settlement. Understanding the implications and taking the necessary steps to declare SORN if you don't intend to drive your vehicle on public roads is important. This way, you will avoid DVLA penalties and ensure you abide by the law.
When to Declare SORN?
You should consider declaring SORN under the following circumstances:
- Keeping the vehicle on private land, not on any public road.
- The vehicle is uninsured due to a policy renewal delay.
- Salvaging parts from the vehicle before scrapping.
- Buying a car and planning to keep it off the road.
Applying for SORN: A Simple Process
To apply for a Statutory Off Road Notification, you can conveniently contact the DVLA through its 24-hour service telephone number: 0300 123 4321. Alternatively, you can apply online at the official government website, gov.uk. If you still need to register as the vehicle owner, you can apply by post using either the V5C log book or the V62 application form. These simple steps will ensure that your vehicle is properly declared off the road and exempt from vehicle tax.
SORN Duration and Renewal
A Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) declaration remains in effect indefinitely until the vehicle is sold, scrapped, or permanently exported outside the UK. This declaration relieves the vehicle owner from the obligation of taxing and insuring the vehicle, and there is no need for annual renewal. By making a SORN declaration, the owner ensures compliance with the regulations and avoids any unnecessary costs or penalties associated with a vehicle not used on public roads.
Returning to the Road After SORN
To get your car back on the road, you'll need to tax it again. This can be conveniently done online, over the phone, or at selected Post Office branches. Remember to ensure your vehicle is properly insured and has an up-to-date MOT before hitting the road. Having all these in place is important to ensure a smooth and hassle-free driving experience. So, take a few extra minutes to double-check everything and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
Myths About SORN: Debunked
Addressing common misconceptions, here are some key facts about SORN:
- Vehicles under SORN must be kept on private land, not public roads.
- SORN status is not transferred to new vehicle keepers.
- SORN does not need an annual renewal.
- Driving a SORN vehicle to a pre-booked MOT is allowed.
- Registering for SORN is free and involves minimal admin.
- Electric vehicles also require SORN despite being tax-exempt.
- SORN-registered vehicles are eligible for tax refunds.
- SORN can be declared up to two months in advance.
- There is no complex process for restarting a SORN vehicle; simply tax it online.
Stay informed about SORN to make informed decisions about your vehicle's road status.
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