The DVLA has issued a stern warning to motorists, reminding them that there are "no shortcuts" when it comes to bringing a vehicle back into use after declaring it off the road under a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). The agency stated: "Want to use your vehicle again after telling DVLA it's off the road (SORN)? You have to tax it first."
This rule applies even if the vehicle has been sitting unused in a garage or driveway for an extended period. Drivers cannot simply start driving again without first going through the official process to tax the vehicle. The requirement stands regardless of whether any payment is due, including for vehicles that are exempt from vehicle tax.
How to Tax Your Vehicle
Motorists can tax their vehicle using a reference number from one of the following documents: a recent DVLA tax reminder or 'last chance' warning letter, the vehicle log book (V5C) in the driver's name, or the green 'new keeper' slip if the vehicle has just been purchased. If none of these are available, drivers must apply for a new log book, though they can still tax the vehicle simultaneously.
Payments can be made via Direct Debit or card, and a 24-hour phone service is available. Drivers can also visit a Post Office that handles vehicle tax transactions.
Additional Legal Requirements
The DVLA emphasizes that taxing the vehicle is only one part of the process. Motorists must ensure they meet all legal requirements before driving, including having valid insurance and a valid MOT certificate where required. There can be delays after an MOT test, as it may take up to two days for records to update, meaning drivers might not be able to tax their vehicle immediately after it passes the test.
The warning comes amid concerns that many motorists are unaware of the rules surrounding SORN and vehicle tax until they violate them. While a vehicle declared off the road does not need to be taxed, the obligation to tax it returns immediately when the owner wishes to use it again.
