Bought a car with SORN: what to do next

SORN cars can be good buys, but you can't just jump in and drive home. Here's how to do it legally.

Checked against GOV.UK guidance · Updated 25 October 2026

The key rule

The seller's SORN does not transfer to you, and neither does their tax (GOV.UK). From the moment you become the keeper, the vehicle must be taxed or declared SORN in your name.

Option A: Drive it home

1. Insure it from the moment you collect it.
2. Tax it using the reference on the green new keeper slip (V5C/2) at gov.uk/vehicle-tax. You can do it on your phone at the seller's house.
3. Check the MOT. You can't tax a vehicle without a valid MOT if it needs one. If it has expired, you can only drive it to a pre-booked MOT, insured. Check it with an MOT history check.

Option B: Trailer it home and keep it off the road

If it's a project or needs work:

1. Collect it on a trailer or transporter.
2. Make your own SORN. Once your new V5C arrives, use its 11-digit reference to SORN online, or send form V890 by post now (SORN by post).
3. Don't leave it untaxed and un-SORN'd while you wait. A SORN can't be backdated.

Checks before you buy a SORN car

• Why is it on SORN? Lay-up, project, failed MOT, accident damage? Ask, and check.
• MOT history: look at the last tests, failures, advisories and mileage readings. Gaps can mean it's been off the road a long time; mileage that goes down is a warning sign. Use a full MOT history check.
• Tax status: confirm it shows SORN on the DVLA vehicle check.
• V5C present with the seller's name and address matching their ID and where the car is. No log book? Be cautious. See SORN without a V5C.
• Insurance write-off? Ask directly. Category S and N cars can be put back on the road (write-offs).

Our sister site's used car checklist covers the inspection itself, and the towing a car guide helps if you're bringing it home on a trailer or tow.

No green slip?

If the seller didn't give you the new keeper slip or V5C, you need form V62 to register the vehicle in your name, and you'll have to pay £25 unless you send the new keeper slip (GOV.UK).