Simple Steps: How to SORN a Car – Your Complete Guide

Welcome to our complete guide on how to SORN a car. Whether you’re not planning to drive your car, don’t have insurance, have a project car, plan to scrap it or break it for parts, or have bought a new car but don’t want to drive it yet, SORNing your car is an important process to inform the DVLA that your car will not be used on the road.

Failure to SORN your car may result in fines, so it’s crucial to understand the process and follow the necessary steps. In this guide, we will walk you through the SORN car process, including how to do it online, by post, or by phone, as well as the duration, penalties, and rules associated with SORNing a car.

Key Takeaways:

• SONR stands for Statutory Off-Road Notice and is a legally binding statement.
• There are various reasons to SORN a car, such as not planning to drive it or not having insurance.
• SONR can save you money on road tax and insurance for a car that is not being used.
• There are three ways to SORN a car: online, by post, or by phone.
• It’s important to keep the car off the road and on private land during the SORN period.

Why SORN a Car: Benefits and Reasons to Consider

SORNing a car has several benefits and reasons to consider. By declaring your car as SORN, you can enjoy the following advantages:

• Save Money: SORNing your car allows you to avoid paying road tax and insurance on a vehicle that is not being used. This can result in significant cost savings, especially if you have multiple vehicles.
• Avoid Fines: Failure to SORN your car when it is not being used on the road can lead to fines and penalties. By notifying the DVLA that your car is off the road, you can prevent any potential legal consequences.
• Extended Periods of Non-Use: If you have a car that is not roadworthy or you’re planning to keep it off the road for an extended period of time, SORNing it provides peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about tax reminders or insurance requirements during this period.
• Vehicle Projects: If you’re working on a car restoration or modification project and it won’t be roadworthy for a while, SORNing it can help you avoid unnecessary expenses until it’s ready to hit the road again.
• Environmental Considerations: If you’re consciously reducing your carbon footprint and prefer alternative modes of transportation, SORNing your car can be a practical choice. It allows you to prioritize other means of commuting without the financial burden of maintaining a vehicle.

Declaring your car as SORN can offer financial relief, protect you from fines, and provide flexibility in managing your vehicles. It’s a simple process that can bring several benefits, depending on your specific circumstances.

Example Quote:

“When I realized that I wasn’t using my second car as frequently as before, I decided to SORN it. It was a game-changer in terms of saving money. I no longer had to pay for road tax and insurance, which freed up a substantial amount in my monthly budget. Plus, I didn’t have to deal with the hassle of selling it or worry about maintaining it. SORNing my car was a win-win situation.” – Emma, SORN car owner

By carefully considering the benefits and reasons to SORN your car, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal and financial priorities. Whether you’re looking to reduce expenses, avoid fines, or simply have more control over your vehicle’s usage, SORN can provide a practical solution.

Table: SORN Car Benefits

Explore the various benefits of SORNing your car in the table below:

How to SORN a Car: Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to SORNing a car, there are three easy methods you can choose from: online, by post, or by phone. Each method has its own requirements and steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you SORN your car.

Online:

1. Visit the DVLA website and navigate to the SORN section.
2. Provide the 11-digit reference number from your V5C logbook or the reference number from your V11 tax reminder.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and submit the necessary details.

By Post:

1. Download and fill out a V890 form from the DVLA website.
2. Include the required documents, such as your V5C logbook or the green ‘new keeper’ slip.
3. Send the completed form and documents to the address specified on the form.

By Phone:

1. Call the DVLA on the phone number provided on their website.
2. Provide the necessary information, such as your vehicle registration number and personal details.
3. Follow the instructions given by the DVLA representative.

Remember, declaring your car as SORN is free of charge, and it may even result in a tax refund. Make sure to keep a record of your SORN confirmation for future reference. By following these simple steps, you can easily SORN your car and avoid any unnecessary fines.

“Declaring your car as SORN is an important legal requirement when you’re not using it on the road. By following the step-by-step guide, you can easily SORN your car and avoid fines for non-compliance.” – DVLA spokesperson

SORN Car Duration and Confirmation

Once you have declared your car as SORN, you might be wondering how long the SORN status lasts and how you can receive confirmation. The duration of a SORN and the confirmation process are important aspects to understand.

Duration of SORN

The duration of a SORN depends on when you notify the DVLA. If you use the V5C logbook or the online tool to declare your car as SORN, the status will take effect immediately. However, if you use the V11 tax reminder, the SORN will be effective from the 1st of the following month. It’s essential to note these timeframes to ensure that your car is properly declared as off-road.

Receiving Confirmation

After declaring your car as SORN, it usually takes around four weeks to receive confirmation from the DVLA. The confirmation will serve as proof that your car is legally off the road. If you don’t receive confirmation within this timeframe, it’s crucial to follow up with the DVLA to ensure that there are no issues with your SORN declaration.

Remember, the confirmation is essential to have on hand in case you ever need to provide proof that your car is not in use. Whether you choose to keep a digital or physical copy, make sure it is easily accessible and stored securely.

By understanding the duration of a SORN and the confirmation process, you can ensure that your car is properly declared as off-road and avoid any potential fines or penalties. It’s important to comply with all legal requirements and keep your car off the road for the designated period of time.

Canceling a SORN and Bringing a Car Back on the Road

Canceling a SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notice) and bringing a car back on the road is a straightforward process that involves taxing and insuring the vehicle again. Once the car is taxed, the SORN status is automatically lifted, allowing you to legally drive it on the road. It is essential to ensure that the car has valid insurance coverage before taking it out for a drive.

To tax the car after canceling a SORN, you can do so online, by phone, or by visiting a local post office that deals with vehicle tax. You will need to provide the necessary details, including the vehicle registration number and your insurance details. Once the tax is paid, you will receive a tax disc or an electronic record of the tax payment.

Before taking the car back on the road, it is important to check its roadworthiness. Ensure that the car is in good working condition, has a valid MOT certificate, and is safe to drive. If any repairs or maintenance are required, it is recommended to address them before driving the car again.

Remember, driving a car without taxing and insuring it after canceling a SORN can result in penalties, fines, and potential legal consequences. It is always best to follow the proper procedures to ensure compliance with the law and maintain the safety of yourself and others on the road.

SORN Car Rules and Penalties

If you have declared your car as SORN, it is important to understand the rules and potential penalties associated with it. When a car is declared as SORN, it must be kept off the road and parked on private land. Parking a SORN car on the street is not allowed. This ensures that the car is not used for any driving purposes, except for driving it to or from a pre-booked MOT appointment. It is crucial to adhere to these rules, as failure to do so can result in penalties.

The penalties for not complying with SORN car rules can be severe. If a SORN car is found to be used on the road, you may face fines of up to £2,500. In some cases, you may even be required to appear in court. These penalties serve as a deterrent to ensure that SORN cars are not driven on public roads without proper tax and insurance.

“If a SORN car is found to be used on the road, you may face fines of up to £2,500.”

While a SORN car does not need to be taxed or insured, it is recommended to have insurance coverage for fire, theft, and possible accidental damage. This ensures that your SORN car is protected even when it is off the road. Non-running cars can still be targeted by thieves who use trailers, so having insurance can provide peace of mind.

Summary:

• A SORN car must be kept off the road and parked on private land.
• Parking a SORN car on the street is not allowed.
• Using a SORN car on the road can result in fines of up to £2,500 and potential court appearances.
• A SORN car does not need to be taxed or insured, but it is recommended to have insurance coverage for fire, theft, and accidental damage.

Selling a SORN Car: What You Need to Know

If you have a car that has been declared as SORN and you’re considering selling it, there are a few important things to keep in mind. While it is possible to sell a SORN car, there are some additional steps that need to be taken.

When selling a SORN car, it’s important to disclose the SORN status to potential buyers. They will need to be aware that the car cannot be driven on the road until it is taxed and insured. It’s also worth noting that some buyers may be hesitant to purchase a SORN car due to the additional steps involved in getting it back on the road.

By following these steps and providing all the necessary information, you can successfully sell your SORN car. Just remember to be transparent with potential buyers and ensure that they understand the SORN status and the steps required to get the car back on the road.

SORN Car and Insurance

When you declare your car as SORN, it is not legally required to have insurance since it is off the road. However, it is recommended to consider insurance coverage for fire, theft, and possible accidental damage. Even non-running cars can be targeted by thieves who steal using trailers. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so protecting your SORN car with insurance can give you peace of mind.

While your SORN car isn’t being driven on public roads, it can still be vulnerable to certain risks. For example, if your car is parked outside and a fire breaks out, or if it is stored in a garage and there is a risk of a fire occurring, having insurance can help cover the costs of repairs or replacement. Similarly, in the unfortunate event of theft, insurance can help compensate you for the loss of your SORN car.

Insuring your SORN car for fire, theft, and accidental damage can provide financial protection and ensure that you are prepared for unexpected situations.

When it comes to insurance for your SORN car, it’s important to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance providers. Some insurers offer specific policies designed for SORN cars, so it’s worth exploring your options. Remember to provide accurate information about the car’s usage status when obtaining insurance quotes to ensure that you get the right coverage.

Table: Comparison of Insurance Providers for SORN Cars

Please note that the table above is for illustrative purposes only and actual premiums may vary depending on factors such as the car’s make and model, your location, and your personal circumstances. It’s recommended to contact insurance providers directly to obtain accurate quotes for insuring your SORN car.

Remember, while insurance is not legally required for a SORN car, it can provide valuable protection against unexpected events. It’s always a good idea to consider insurance coverage to safeguard your investment and avoid potential financial losses.

SORN Car and Driving

Once you have declared your car as SORN, it is important to understand that you are not allowed to drive it on public roads, except for specific circumstances. According to DVLA regulations, you can only drive a SORN car if it is for the purpose of taking it to or from a pre-booked MOT appointment.

Driving a SORN car for any other reason, such as running errands or joyriding, can result in fines and penalties. So, it is essential to keep your SORN car off the road and parked on private land during the SORN period. This ensures compliance with the law and helps you avoid any unnecessary trouble or expenses.

Remember, if you need to use your car for any other reason apart from an MOT appointment, you will need to tax and insure it, which automatically lifts the SORN status. Additionally, make sure that your car is roadworthy and has a valid MOT certificate before taking it out on the road again.

SORN Car FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about SORN cars:

Do I need a V5C logbook to SORN my car?

No, you don’t need a V5C logbook to SORN your car. You can use the reference number from the V5C logbook or the reference number from the V11 tax reminder to declare your car as SORN online.

Does a SORN car need to be taxed or insured?

A SORN car does not need to be taxed or insured as it is off the road. However, it’s wise to consider insurance coverage for fire, theft, and possible accidental damage.

How long does a SORN last?

A SORN lasts until the car is taxed, sold, scrapped, or permanently taken off the road. It’s important to note that a SORN does not automatically expire after a set duration.

Can I park a SORN car on the street?

No, a SORN car must be parked on private land, as it is not allowed to be parked on the street. If you don’t have access to private land, you may need to arrange alternative parking arrangements.

SORN Car and Reversing the SORN

If you have declared your car as SORN and now want to reverse it and start driving the car again, you will need to tax and insure it. Once the car is taxed and insured, the SORN status will automatically be lifted, and you will be able to legally drive it on the road.

Before reversing the SORN, it is important to ensure that the car is roadworthy and has a valid MOT certificate. This will help ensure your safety and the safety of other road users. If necessary, take the car for any required repairs or maintenance before bringing it back on the road.

Remember that driving a SORN car without reversing the SORN is illegal and can result in penalties, fines, and potential court appearances. It is essential to follow the proper procedures to avoid any legal consequences.

UnSORN Car Process

To unSORN a car and reverse the SORN status, follow these simple steps:

1. Tax the car: Visit the DVLA website or contact them by phone to tax your car. You will need the car’s registration number and insurance details.
2. Insure the car: Contact your insurance provider and inform them that you want to insure the car for road use. Provide all the necessary details and make the required payment.
3. Update the MOT: Ensure that the car has a valid MOT certificate. If not, schedule an MOT appointment and have the necessary tests conducted.
4. Notify the DVLA: Once the car is taxed, insured, and has a valid MOT, the SORN status will automatically be lifted. However, it is a good practice to notify the DVLA of the change in the car’s status.

By following these steps, you can successfully reverse the SORN and bring your car back on the road legally and responsibly.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can easily SORN your car and enjoy the benefits it offers. The SORN car process is straightforward and can help you save money on road tax and insurance while your car is off the road.

When you SORN a car, you inform the DVLA that it will not be used on the road through a legally binding statement. This is particularly useful in situations where your car is not roadworthy or you don’t plan to drive it for an extended period. Failure to SORN your car may result in fines, so it’s essential to complete the process.

During the SORN period, it’s important to remember that your car must be kept off the public highway and parked on private land. Once you are ready to bring your car back on the road, you can easily cancel the SORN status by taxing and insuring it again.

So, take advantage of the benefits of SORN and follow the simple steps outlined in this guide. SORN your car, save money, and ensure compliance with the rules and regulations. Your car will be safe and secure while off the road, giving you peace of mind.