SORNing a vehicle does not require a valid MOT – in fact registering a car as SORN is often done because your car has failed its MOT. This means that it can very easily be achieved with just one short visit to the DVLA website.
All you need to SORN a car is the 11-digit number from your car’s V5C or the 16-digit number from your V11 tax reminder. Once you’ve put these into the DVLA website your car will be instantly registered as SORN, so make sure it is stored in a suitable place first.
Can I SORN my car if it fails its MOT?
Absolutely! Registering a car as SORN can be quite a common decision after it has failed its MOT, especially if it’s unable to be fixed in the near future.
H3 – Should I SORN my car if it fails its MOT?
This depends on the severity of the reason your car failed its MOT. If you know it’s an easy fix, then it’s probably going to be quicker (and cheaper) for you to just repair it in the first place. If repairing isn’t an option then keeping the car off the road with a SORN until it’s able to be put back through an MOT is probably going to be better for you.
What documents do I need to SORN my car?
All you need to SORN a car is your V5C log book or the V11 tax reminder document. You’ll need either the 11-digit number from the log book or the 16-digit number from the tax reminder.
Can you SORN a car immediately?
Yes – once you apply for a SORN for your car, it is registered as such immediately. This is why it is important for your car to be in a suitable location first, as if you register it as SORN while it is still on the public highway (or needs to drive back home again), you are liable to a fine for having an untaxed vehicle on the road.
Can you tax a car without MOT?
No, the general rule surrounding taxing vehicles in the UK is that you must have a valid MOT certificate first. The MOT certificate proves that your car is in a condition that is safe to be on the road, and without this the DVLA will not permit you to tax your vehicle.
The only exception for these are cars that are under three years old or over 40.
- New cars are usually exempt from needing an MOT until their third year, but it is important you check this when you buy one.
- Most historic cars are MOT exempt when they reach the age of 40.
How do I move a car without MOT?
The only way to move a car without MOT under its own power is to have a pre-booked MOT appointment – and you can only drive to that appointment. If you need to move a car with no MOT between two locations, the only legal way to do so is on the back of a trailer or recovery vehicle.
SORNing and UnSORNing Hub
SORNing and UnSORNing HubExplore expert advice on tax, insurance, and legal matters for SORNed cars and motorbikes. Our Knowledge Centre offers essential information to ensure you’re fully informed to manage your vehicle off the road.
How to check if a car has been registered as SORN
A quick and easy guide to check if your car has been registered as SORN or not.
Forgotten to SORN my car
We talk you through every step you need to take if you’ve forgotten to register your car as SORN before your tax runs out.
How to SORN a motorbike
A comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about registering your motorcycle as SORN.
How to remove a SORN from a car
A simple guide to getting you back on the road at the end of a SORN.
Or, visit our SORNing Knowledge Centre for guides on all topics related to SORNing and storing your car or bike
FAQ
Can you leave your car parked if it fails its MOT?
No, cars on the public highway must have a valid MOT and be taxed to the current date. As tax is not possible on cars with no MOT, then it is not allowed to keep it parked on the road. You must store cars with no MOT or tax on private property, such as a driveway or garage.
Does a vehicle have to be insured if its SORN?
No, you don’t need to have insurance for a SORN vehicle. This doesn’t mean you can’t insure it though, and some insurers may offer “parked up” insurance to keep you protected in the event of fire or theft.
Can I drive my car away if it fails its MOT?
This will depend on the severity of the fail. If the car was deemed unsafe, then it will not be allowed back on the road until it has been rectified. Some small minor fails will be allowed to be driven back home – or to a garage – to be repaired. You won’t be able to drive the car again (except back to the test centre) until it has regained a valid MOT certificate.
Can you park a car on the road if its SORN?
No – SORN cars must be kept away from the public highway at all times. Roads, pavements and car parks are not allowed. SORN cars should be parked in driveways, garages or tucked away on private land.
Is my car still insured if I SORN it?
Getting a SORN for your car will not immediately mean your insurance ends, but you no longer need to have the policy. It’s up to you if you want to change (or cancel) the policy.
How long does a SORN last?
A car will retain its SORN status until you remove it. Unlike tax you don’t have to renew SORN every year, once it’s registered as SORN it will remain in that state.
How much does a SORN cost?
Registering a car as SORN does not cost anything – in fact, it might save you money. You won’t be paying for tax anymore, and can also save on insurance should you wish. You also won’t be paying for fuel as it won’t be using any anymore…
Is there a grace period for tax and MOT?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no grace period for tax or MOT. Once your tax expires, you are not able to be on the road and you could get a fine instantly from the DVLA’s computer system. The same applies for MOT, once your certificate expires it has expired, there is no grace period.
