DVLA fine letter: untaxed vehicle with no SORN

If a vehicle registered to you is untaxed and not declared SORN, DVLA's system automatically sends a penalty. Here's how to deal with it.

Checked against GOV.UK guidance · Updated 25 October 2026

What the letter means

DVLA's records show the vehicle was neither taxed nor declared SORN for a period. GOV.UK says you'll automatically be fined £80 for not having a SORN (SORN guidance). This is called a late licensing penalty (LLP).

How much do I have to pay?

DVLA's published enforcement policy sets the LLP at £80, reduced to £40 if paid within 33 days. Your letter states the exact amount and deadline. Paying quickly halves it. You may also have to pay the tax owed for the period the vehicle wasn't taxed.

How to pay

Use GOV.UK's Pay a DVLA fine service with the reference on your letter. GOV.UK says that after paying you must make sure the vehicle is taxed, SORN'd, or that DVLA has been told you no longer have it. Otherwise you can be fined again.

When can I challenge it?

You may have grounds if:

• you made a SORN in time but DVLA didn't record it (have your confirmation or proof of postage)
• you sold the vehicle before the period and told DVLA (or have proof of sale)
• the vehicle was stolen and reported to police
• the vehicle was scrapped at an ATF (certificate of destruction)

Follow the instructions on the letter to dispute it, and send copies of your evidence, never originals.

What happens if I ignore it?

GOV.UK warns that if you don't pay on time your vehicle could be clamped or crushed, or your details passed to a debt collection agency. Unpaid cases can go to court, where the fine can be up to £1,000 plus back-tax.

Stop it happening again

1. Make a SORN today if the vehicle is off the road (how to SORN).
2. Or tax it if you're using it. Check the MOT first (tax after SORN).
3. Make sure your address on the V5C is right so reminders reach you.
4. Consider Direct Debit so the tax renews automatically.