How to check if a vehicle is SORN
Whether you've just made a SORN, you're buying a car or a neighbour's car hasn't moved in months, checking the SORN status takes seconds and is free.
Use DVLA's free vehicle enquiry service
GOV.UK's Check if a vehicle is taxed service shows a vehicle's tax status, including SORN, from just the registration number. It's free and you don't need to own the vehicle.
- Go to gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax.
- Enter the registration number.
- Confirm the make and colour match.
- Read the tax status.
What the statuses mean
| Status | What it means |
|---|---|
| Taxed | Vehicle tax is in place until the date shown. |
| SORN | A SORN is in place. The vehicle must be kept off the road. |
| Untaxed | No tax and no SORN. The keeper risks an automatic £80 fine. |
The same results page also shows the MOT expiry date. For the full MOT history (every test, mileage reading, advisory and failure), use a full MOT history check.
See the full MOT history, mileage and advisories for any UK reg in seconds.
Just made a SORN and it isn't showing?
- Online SORNs usually show quickly.
- Phone SORNs: DVLA asks you to allow up to 4 weeks for confirmation before chasing.
- Postal SORNs: allow 6 to 8 weeks.
If you're outside those times, see SORN not showing. Keep your confirmation or proof of postage in case you need it.
Checking before you buy
If you're buying a used car, the SORN status tells you:
- it can't be driven home unless you tax it first (and insure it)
- the seller's SORN won't transfer to you. You'll need to tax it or make your own SORN
- a car that's been on SORN for a long time may have an expired MOT. Check the MOT history for gaps and the reason it came off the road
More in our buying a SORN car guide.
Spotted an untaxed vehicle on the road?
You can report an untaxed vehicle to DVLA using the report an untaxed vehicle service on GOV.UK. A SORN vehicle parked on a public road is also a problem for its keeper. See SORN car on the road.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a car is SORN?
Enter the registration on GOV.UK's free Check if a vehicle is taxed service. The status shows Taxed, SORN or Untaxed.
Can I check someone else's car?
Yes. The service only needs the registration number and shows the tax and MOT status, not personal details.