What Does SORN Mean? When and How to Declare It

SORN explained: what it means, when you need one, how to declare it, and what happens if you don't. Keep your vehicle legal.

What Does SORN Mean?

SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification. It's a declaration to the DVLA that your vehicle is not being used or kept on public roads.

When do you need a SORN?

You must declare SORN if your vehicle is:

• Kept off the road (garage, driveway, private land)
• Not taxed
• Not going to be driven on public roads

If your tax expires and you don't renew it or declare SORN, you'll be fined £80.

How to declare SORN

1. Online: gov.uk/sorn (instant, free)
2. Phone: DVLA on 0300 123 4321
3. Post: Fill in V890 form

SORN lasts indefinitely until you tax the vehicle again. You don't need to renew it annually.

Can you still insure a SORN'd car?

You're not legally required to, but it's wise. A SORN'd car on your driveway can still be stolen, damaged by weather, or vandalised. Laid-up insurance is cheap.

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