Forgot to SORN or tax your vehicle?
It happens to lots of people: a car sits on the drive, the tax quietly expires, and no one makes a SORN. The fix is quick. The key is doing it today.
Step 1: Stop the clock today
A SORN can't be backdated, so every day the vehicle is untaxed and un-SORN'd is a day you could be fined for.
- Off the road? Make a SORN online now. You need the 11-digit V5C reference or a 16-digit reminder reference.
- Using it? Stop driving it until it's taxed. Check the MOT, check insurance, then tax it.
Step 2: Check the insurance situation
If you cancelled or let the insurance lapse before making the SORN, you may also get a CIE letter. Making a SORN now ends the exposure from today.
Step 3: Expect (and deal with) a letter
DVLA's systems may send a late licensing penalty of £80, reduced to £40 if paid within 33 days, plus any back-tax owed. Pay promptly if it's due, or challenge it with evidence if you think it's wrong (DVLA fine letters).
Step 4: Make sure it can't happen again
- Keep your address on the V5C up to date so reminders reach you.
- Sign up for reminders: DVLA tax reminders, and free MOT reminders.
- Pay vehicle tax by Direct Debit so it renews automatically.
- If you have several vehicles, keep a simple list of tax and MOT dates.
See the full MOT history, mileage and advisories for any UK reg in seconds.
"But it hasn't moved!"
Unfortunately that's not a defence. The law requires a vehicle to be taxed or declared SORN, whether or not it's used. The SORN is the notification that makes the difference.