UK ROAD TAX
Understanding UK Road Tax and SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)
In the United Kingdom, road tax, also known as vehicle excise duty (VED), is a legal requirement for most vehicles driven or parked on public roads. Additionally, SORN provides an option for vehicle owners to legally declare their vehicle off the road. In this webpage, we'll explore why road tax is necessary, the consequences of not having it, and how SORN works.
Why Do You Need UK Road Tax?
UK road tax, or vehicle excise duty (VED), is essential for maintaining the UK's road infrastructure and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The revenue generated from road tax helps fund road maintenance, construction projects, and environmental initiatives. Additionally, road tax is used as a means to encourage vehicle owners to choose more environmentally friendly vehicles by imposing higher taxes on vehicles with higher emissions.
Consequences of Not Having Road Tax:
Driving or parking a vehicle on public roads without valid road tax is illegal in the UK and can result in severe penalties. If you're caught driving without road tax, you could face fines, vehicle clamping, or even having your vehicle seized. It's important to ensure that your vehicle's road tax is up to date to avoid legal consequences.
Understanding SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification):
SORN, or Statutory Off Road Notification, is a legal declaration that a vehicle is not being used on public roads and therefore is not required to be taxed. You should declare SORN if your vehicle is kept off the road and you do not intend to tax it for a period of time. This could be because the vehicle is undergoing repairs, stored in a garage, or not in use for any other reason.
UK road tax, also known as vehicle excise duty (VED), is a legal requirement for most vehicles driven or parked on public roads. Failure to have valid road tax can result in significant penalties. SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) provides a legal option for declaring a vehicle off the road and not subject to road tax. By understanding the importance of road tax, the consequences of not having it, and how SORN works, vehicle owners can ensure compliance with UK road regulations.
Disclaimer: This webpage is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. For specific guidance regarding road tax and SORN, consult with a qualified professional or refer to official government resources.
To tax your car, motorcycle, or any other vehicle, you can use a reference number from one of the following sources:
- A recent vehicle tax reminder or 'last chance' warning letter issued by DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).
- Your vehicle log book (V5C), which must be registered in your name.
- The green 'new keeper' slip from a log book if you've recently purchased the vehicle.
If you don't have any of these documents, you'll need to apply for a new log book from the DVLA.
How SORN Works:
To declare SORN for your vehicle, you can do so online through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website or by completing a paper form and sending it to the DVLA. Once SORN is declared, you are not required to tax the vehicle until it is back on the road. However, it's essential to note that you cannot drive or park a vehicle on public roads while it has a SORN declaration unless you tax it.
