Car not in my name or wrong keeper on record

There are two sides to this: SORNing a vehicle that isn't yet registered to you, and getting letters for a vehicle you no longer have.

Checked against GOV.UK guidance · Updated 25 October 2026

SORNing a vehicle that isn't in your name

You can't use the online or phone SORN service unless the vehicle is registered to you. GOV.UK says to fill in the appropriate part of the log book and send it with form V890 (Make a SORN).

• Just bought it? Complete the new keeper details if the seller didn't tell DVLA online, then post the V5C and V890 to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR. If the seller did tell DVLA online, your new V5C will arrive and you can SORN online then. In the meantime, don't leave it untaxed. Use V890 by post. See buying a SORN car.
• Inherited it? See deceased relative's car.
• It's a family member's car and they're the keeper? The keeper should make the SORN, or the vehicle should be transferred to you properly.

Getting letters for a car you sold

If DVLA still has you as keeper, you'll keep getting tax reminders and possibly £80 penalties or CIE letters.

1. Check whether you told DVLA: you should have received confirmation that you're no longer the keeper.
2. If you didn't, use Tell DVLA you've sold a vehicle if you still have the V5C. If not, write to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA with your name and address, the registration, make and model, the exact date of sale and the new keeper's name and address.
3. Reply to any penalty letter with your evidence: sale receipt, messages with the buyer, dealer invoice.

Letters for a car you've never owned

This can indicate an error, or that someone has used your details. Contact DVLA Vehicle Enquiries on 0300 790 6802 straight away, and keep copies of every letter. If you suspect fraud, report it to Action Fraud.

Car registered to a business

Company vehicles follow the same rules. Whoever is the registered keeper (the company) must tax or SORN it. Make sure someone owns the job when a company car comes off the road.