Many vehicle owners across the United Kingdom may be unwittingly paying road tax they don’t need, according to motoring expert Richard Dornan from AChoice. This alarming reality stems from their lack of knowledge about the Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), which can exempt them from road tax if their vehicles are kept off public roads.
There are many scenarios where individuals might find themselves with vehicles occupying driveways or garages unused for periods of time, such as attending university, traveling, or temporarily being unable to drive. "The DVLA states any car kept on public roads must be taxed and insured. But if a vehicle is not in use and kept off-road, such as in a garage or on private land, it can be declared SORN," Dornan explains.
To benefit from the SORN exemption and cut their tax bills, vehicle owners need to declare this status to the DVLA. The process is straightforward and can be completed online, via phone, or through post. Nevertheless, vehicle owners must remain vigilant; any vehicle maintained on public roads must be taxed, regardless of whether it's actively driven.
Declaring SORN is not without its responsibilities. After receiving this designation, if vehicle owners drive or keep the vehicle on public roads without adhering to the necessary regulations, they could face severe financial penalties. "If a vehicle with a SORN in place is left on a public road, owners face an initial £30 fine, plus twice the amount of any outstanding vehicle tax," Dornan warns.
Given the strict consequences, the stakes rise significantly for those who ignore this warning. If these fines remain unpaid, the case could escalate to the magistrates’ court, leading to penalties climbing to either £1,000 or five times the unpaid tax—whichever figure is greater. On top of this, if caught using or keeping an untaxed vehicle on public roads, the financial consequences can soar to as much as £2,500.
The takeaway here is clear: vehicle owners must take proactive steps to manage their vehicle taxation and regulations effectively. Once the SORN declaration has been made, expect to also be eligible for tax refunds on any remaining months of tax paid previously.
It's worth noting the conditions under which SORN allows driving on public roads. Motorists can still drive their SORN vehicle if heading to and from pre-booked appointments for tests such as MOTs. This stipulation provides some flexibility, ensuring car owners can keep their vehicles maintained even if they are not using them regularly.
For those who may need to use their vehicles on public roads after acquiring SORN, timely action is necessary to avoid fines. They must tax their vehicles again as soon as possible. More detailed guidance and regulations related to SORN can be found on the official UK Government website, Gov.uk.
Understanding these regulations is not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring fair financial practices for vehicle owners who could otherwise be paying unnecessarily. The DVLA, through its policies, aims to encourage responsible vehicle ownership—one where motorists are not unduly penalized for circumstances beyond their control.
With the right information, drivers can effectively navigate the taxing waters of vehicle regulations and make informed choices about their vehicle usage. Awareness and knowledge can save monetary penalties, giving drivers peace of mind as they manage their vehicle taxation responsibilities.