What is a SORN Declaration?
A SORN declaration, also known as a Statutory Off Road Notification, is a formal declaration to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that your vehicle is off the road and will not be used on public roads. This declaration is required by law if you do not intend to use your vehicle on public roads.
Making a SORN declaration is crucial to avoid fines and penalties. If you fail to declare your vehicle as off-road, you may be liable for continuous vehicle tax, and you may also face fines and penalties if your vehicle is found to be on the road without valid tax or insurance.
Why Do I Need to Make a SORN Declaration?
You need to make a SORN declaration if you do not intend to use your vehicle on public roads. This may be due to various reasons such as your vehicle being in storage, undergoing repairs, or being sold. By making a SORN declaration, you can avoid paying vehicle tax and insurance for a vehicle that is not being used on the road.
Additionally, making a SORN declaration helps to prevent unnecessary fines and penalties. If you do not declare your vehicle as off-road, you may be liable for continuous vehicle tax, and you may also face fines and penalties if your vehicle is found to be on the road without valid tax or insurance.
How Do I Make a SORN Declaration?
To make a SORN declaration, you can use the DVLA's online service or complete a V890 application form. You will need to provide your vehicle's registration number, make, and model, as well as your name and address. You will also need to confirm that your vehicle is not being used on public roads and that you are not selling or transferring ownership of the vehicle.
Once you have made a SORN declaration, you will receive a confirmation letter from the DVLA. You should keep this letter as proof of your declaration, as you may need to provide it if you are stopped by the police or if you need to tax your vehicle again in the future.
What Are the Consequences of Not Making a SORN Declaration?
If you fail to make a SORN declaration, you may be liable for continuous vehicle tax, and you may also face fines and penalties if your vehicle is found to be on the road without valid tax or insurance. You may also receive a fine of up to £1,000 if you are found to have used your vehicle on the road without a valid tax disc.
Additionally, if you do not make a SORN declaration, you may also face penalties for not having valid insurance. This can result in a fine, penalty points on your license, or even disqualification from driving. It is therefore essential to make a SORN declaration if you do not intend to use your vehicle on public roads.
Can I Cancel a SORN Declaration?
Yes, you can cancel a SORN declaration if you need to use your vehicle on public roads again. To cancel a SORN declaration, you will need to tax your vehicle and ensure that it is insured. You can tax your vehicle online or at a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax.
Once you have taxed and insured your vehicle, you can cancel your SORN declaration. You should keep a record of your cancellation, as you may need to provide proof of it if you are stopped by the police or if you need to tax your vehicle again in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't make a SORN declaration?
If you don't make a SORN declaration, you may be liable for continuous vehicle tax and face fines and penalties if your vehicle is found to be on the road without valid tax or insurance.
How long does a SORN declaration last?
A SORN declaration lasts for as long as you do not use your vehicle on public roads. You can cancel your SORN declaration at any time if you need to use your vehicle on the road again.
Do I need to make a SORN declaration if I'm selling my car?
Yes, you should make a SORN declaration if you are selling your car and it will not be used on public roads. This will help prevent unnecessary fines and penalties.
Can I make a SORN declaration online?
Yes, you can make a SORN declaration online using the DVLA's online service. You will need to provide your vehicle's registration number, make, and model, as well as your name and address.
Do I need to insure my vehicle if I make a SORN declaration?
No, you do not need to insure your vehicle if you make a SORN declaration. However, you should ensure that your vehicle is insured if you need to use it on public roads again in the future.
How do I cancel a SORN declaration?
To cancel a SORN declaration, you will need to tax your vehicle and ensure that it is insured. You can tax your vehicle online or at a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax.