DVLA urges drivers to contact them over key car change

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a crucial warning to motorists who aren't planning to use their vehicle in the near future. Car owners who know their vehicle will not be on the road for period of time may opt to declare it off the road via a Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN).

It's important to note that a SORN gets automatically triggered when a vehicle's tax expires or when no renewal application is submitted during the month the tax is due to lapse. Motorists must bear in mind that driving a SORN-registered motor on public highways is against the law, with limited exceptions. Those found breaching this rule face hefty penalties and possible legal proceedings.

Nevertheless, if you're certain you won't be using your motor for an extended period, you should get in touch with the DVLA. Posting on X (formerly known as Twitter), the DVLA stated: "Does your car need a break?

"Tell us online if you need to take it off the road." Should you wish to declare your vehicle as SORN, you can complete this through the DVLA's digital platform here.

For this process, you'll require either the 11-digit reference from your car's logbook or the 16-digit code located on your vehicle tax reminder.

Regulations surrounding vehicles declared SORN

Once a motor is registered as SORN, it will lack both insurance and tax protection. Similar to insurance obligations, vehicles must be taxed to be operated legally throughout the UK - non-compliance could trigger a £30 penalty notice plus twice the outstanding tax sum.

Ignoring this notice could lead to court proceedings, with fines potentially reaching £2,500 or five times the tax owed - whichever amount is higher.

The sole exception for driving a SORN vehicle

Official guidelines emphasise that the sole occasion when ordinary drivers are permitted to drive a SORN-declared vehicle on public roads is when it's being transported to or from a pre-arranged MOT or other testing appointment. In contrast, motor traders and testers aren't obliged to declare a SORN on a vehicle, provided the following conditions are satisfied:.

• if its being kept at your business premises
• The registered keeper has notified DVLA that the vehicle has been sold or transferred to you
• It's only temporarily in your possession (until you sell it)

What if I want to start driving my car again?

If you reconsider your decision about your car being off the road, you can simply remove the SORN by taxing the car again. This can be done online, as long as you have the following documents ready:

• A recent vehicle tax reminder or 'last chance' warning letter from DVLA
• The green 'new keeper' slip from a log book if you've just bought it
• Your vehicle log book (V5C) - it must be in your name

If you don't possess these documents, then you will be unable to tax your vehicle. However, you will have the option to apply for a new logbook and can tax your vehicle at the same time, according to government guidance.