{"id":9352,"date":"2025-10-24T10:10:59","date_gmt":"2025-10-24T09:10:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/?p=9352"},"modified":"2026-04-02T14:38:07","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T13:38:07","slug":"how-to-sorn-a-car","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-sorn-a-car\/","title":{"rendered":"How To SORN a Car in the UK? We Answer 6 SORN Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"

Are you wondering how to SORN a car in the UK? You\u2019re not alone. Many drivers don\u2019t realise you must declare your car off the road officially. Even if it\u2019s just sitting on a driveway or in a garage. Skipping this step can lead to fines or unwanted tax charges.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this quick guide, we\u2019ll explain what SORN means, when you need it, and how to do it online, by post, or by phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

So, without any delay, let\u2019s walk you through the process step by step.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is SORN?<\/span><\/h3>\n

SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification. It tells the <\/span>DVLA<\/span><\/a> that your car is not being driven or kept on a public road. You make a SORN when your vehicle is off the road and you don\u2019t want to tax or insure it. Once it\u2019s SORNed, you can\u2019t drive or park the car on any public street.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can only keep the car on private land, like a driveway or garage. If you ignore the rules, you could face fines or even prosecution. A SORN is free to apply for and lasts until you tax, sell, <\/span>scrap<\/span><\/a>, or export the vehicle. It\u2019s a legal way to avoid paying car tax when you’re not using your vehicle.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to SORN a Car? \u2013 Step-by-Step Guide<\/span><\/h3>\n

Declaring your car off the road with a SORN is simple and free. You can do it online, by phone, or by post. Here’s how to do it, based on the official GOV.UK process:<\/span><\/p>\n

Gather the Right Info<\/b><\/p>\n

Make sure the car is registered in your name. You\u2019ll need one of your registration numbers, the 11-digit number from your V5C (log book), or the 16-digit number from your V11 (tax reminder). Also, check that your address is up to date with the DVLA before starting.<\/span><\/p>\n

Choose How You Want to Apply<\/b><\/p>\n

There are three ways to apply for SORN. Choose the one that works best for you.<\/p>\n

a. Online (Quickest)<\/b><\/p>\n

The easiest way is online. Head to the official <\/span>government website<\/span><\/a> and enter your vehicle details, and follow the steps. If you’re using the number from your V5C log book, your SORN starts right away. If you’re using the number from your V11 tax reminder, it starts when your current <\/span>tax<\/span><\/a> runs out.<\/span><\/p>\n

b. By Phone<\/b><\/p>\n

You can also SORN your car by phone. You will need to have details in your hand and simply call the DVLA on 0300 123 4321. And explain that you wish to SORN your vehicle.<\/span><\/p>\n

c. By Post<\/b><\/p>\n

Prefer to do things the old-fashioned way? Fill out a V890 form. You can <\/span>download it here<\/span><\/a> or pick one up at a Post Office. Send the completed form to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you want the SORN to start on a future date, include a cover letter explaining when.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Documents Do You Need to SORN a Vehicle?<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"V5C<\/p>\n

Before applying for a SORN, make sure you\u2019ve got the right documents to hand. It\u2019ll save you time and help avoid any issues with the DVLA.<\/span><\/p>\n

First, you\u2019ll need your V5C logbook. This is your proof of vehicle ownership. If you don\u2019t have it yet but you\u2019re the new keeper, you can use the green \u2018new keeper\u2019 slip from the V5C instead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Next, check if you have a V11 tax reminder letter. This isn\u2019t essential, but you can use the 16-digit reference on it to apply if it\u2019s available.<\/span><\/p>\n

Still unsure or need help? You can contact DVLA customer services directly with any questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Planning to apply by post? You\u2019ll need to fill in a V890 form.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Do You Need to SORN a Car?<\/span><\/h3>\n

You need to SORN your car when you\u2019re taking it off the road. This means it won\u2019t be driven, parked, or used on public roads. You must apply for a SORN if your vehicle is uninsured or untaxed.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also need a SORN if you\u2019re storing the car in a garage, on a driveway, or on private land. If you plan to break the car for parts or if it’s declared a total loss by <\/span>insurance<\/span><\/a>, a SORN is required too. Lastly, SORN is needed if you buy any car<\/a> and don\u2019t tax it immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s your legal responsibility to inform the DVLA. Failing to do so can lead to fines.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n Car damaged beyond repair? Sell it as it is\n <\/h3>\n

\n If your car’s already damaged, Exchange My Car can help. Compare instant offers, book free collection, and get paid fast. It\u2019s quick, simple, and all online.\n <\/p>\n\t\t\t\n <\/div>\n \t

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