How to SORN a vehicle: step one, two, three
Making a SORN takes about five minutes online and costs nothing. Here is exactly what to do, whichever route you choose.
Step 1 find your 11-digit V5C or 16-digit reminder reference. Step 2 apply free online, by phone or by post. Step 3 the SORN is recorded and any refund is sent automatically.
- Step 1Find your reference11-digit V5C reference or 16-digit reminder (V11)
- Step 2Apply for freeonline, by phone (0300 123 4321) or post (V890)
- Step 3SORN recordedtax cancelled and refund for full months sent
Before you start
You can only make a SORN online or by phone if the vehicle is registered in your name. You'll need one of these:
- the 11-digit document reference number from your vehicle log book (V5C)
- the 16-digit reference number from a vehicle tax reminder (a V11 letter, email or text message)
If the vehicle isn't in your name yet, or you've lost the log book, skip to SORN without a V5C. If you've just bought it, see bought a car with SORN.
Step 1: Find your reference number
Grab your V5C log book. On the newer style log book the 11-digit document reference is printed on the front page. A 16-digit reference comes on DVLA's tax reminders. You only need one. Our reference number guide shows where each one sits and which to use.
Step 2: Choose how to apply
Online (fastest)
Go to GOV.UK: Make a SORN, enter your reference and the vehicle registration, confirm the details and submit. You'll see confirmation on screen and DVLA emails you if you give an address. Full walkthrough: SORN online.
By phone
Call DVLA's 24-hour automated vehicle service on 0300 123 4321 and follow the prompts with your reference number to hand. Call charges apply. Full walkthrough: SORN by phone.
By post
Fill in form V890 and send it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR. You need the post route if the vehicle isn't in your name, your address on the V5C is wrong or you don't have a log book. Full walkthrough: SORN by post.
Step 3: Check it's done and watch for your refund
After you apply:
- Keep your confirmation (screenshot the online confirmation or note the date and time of your call).
- Check the vehicle's status on DVLA's free vehicle enquiry service. It should read "SORN".
- DVLA cancels your vehicle tax and any Direct Debit automatically.
- A refund for any full months of tax left is sent to the name and address on the V5C.
Which route should I use?
| Your situation | Best route |
|---|---|
| Vehicle in your name, V5C to hand | Online with the 11-digit reference |
| No V5C but you have a tax reminder | Online or phone with the 16-digit reference |
| V5C lost and no reminder | Post: V62 + V890 (new log book costs £25) |
| Address on V5C is wrong | Change address online first, then SORN |
| Vehicle not in your name | Post: log book section + V890 |
| No internet access | Phone 0300 123 4321 (24 hours) |
What you don't need
- You don't need to pay anyone. DVLA doesn't charge for a SORN.
- You don't need a valid MOT or insurance to make a SORN.
- You don't need to renew your SORN each year.
See the full MOT history, mileage and advisories for any UK reg in seconds.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to SORN a car online?
Usually about five minutes if you have your V5C or tax reminder reference.
Can I SORN a car that is not in my name?
Not online or by phone. You need to fill in the appropriate part of the log book and send it with form V890 to DVLA.