You are not allowed to tow SORN vehicles, as that would go against the rules of a SORN. When you register a car as SORN, you are declaring that it will no longer be on the road. While you may think that towing a car doesn’t count, legally it is still on the road. When you tow vehicles, a driver must still sit behind the wheel to keep it under control. If you are going to tow a vehicle, it must be fully road legal. This means it needs to have valid tax, insurance and MOT.
How to legally move a SORN car
Moving a SORN car cannot be done under its own power. Because SORN vehicles cannot be driven or towed, you will need to arrange an alternative type of transport. The simplest way to think about it is that a SORN vehicle’s wheels can not touch the road network. The most popular options are either on the back of a trailer or a flatbed truck. If you have a friend who has either of these then you may wish to call in a favour, otherwise there are plenty of companies who specialise in this type of service.
Are there any exceptions to the rules?
There is only one time where you are able to have a SORN car on the road and that is if you are driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment. If you are driving to your MOT appointment, you must not stop off anywhere on the way. Even something as simple as stopping at a petrol station or a shop will make that trip illegal. It is recommended that you have proof of your booking before you set out, just in case you are pulled over by the police as your car will flag up on any police cameras.
It is important to remember that while you can drive without a SORN or a valid MOT to get to a pre-booked appointment, your car must still be insured.
Can I drive or tow a SORN car if I’m selling it?
No, unless you are driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment your SORN car can never be on the roads. If someone has asked to test drive your car before it is sold, you will need to provide a location off the road network to be able to do this. Alternatively, you will have to get a valid MOT, insurance and tax before the prospective customer takes it out for a test drive.
The same applies to being transported to or from a sale – any movements must be made with the car not on the road. This means you will need either a trailer or a truck to take it to its new destination. This will be something for you to take into account when selling, as it could be a major negotiation point for your customer.
FAQs
Where do I store a SORN car?
SORN cars can only be stored somewhere private – or rather “off the public highway”. This means you can’t park them on the road, pavement or anywhere publicly accessible like a car park. You should always aim to store them in somewhere like a driveway or garage. If you have land with a barn-type building, this is also ideal.
How do I transfer ownership of a SORN car?
Transferring ownership of a SORN car is carried out in the exact same way as you would trasnfer ownership of a road-going car. Like tax, a SORN does not transfer, so the new owner must apply for a SORN themselves if they intend to keep it off the road.
Can I transfer the numberplate from a SORN vehicle?
It is possible to transfer the numberplate from a SORN vehicle, however what you need to do depends on how long your SORN has been in place. If your car has had a SORN for longer than five years, it will need to be taxed and have a valid MOT before you can remove the numberplate.
If you have met these requirements, you can apply for your numberplate to be removed online. You will need your car’s V5C and pay an £80 fee to do this. If you are successful you will be sent a V778 retention document and your car’s new V5C showing its new registration number.
Moving and Storing SORN Cars Hub
Moving and Storing SORN Cars HubExplore expert advice on moving, storing and generally keeping SORN vehicles. Our Knowledge Centre offers essential information to ensure you’re fully informed to manage your vehicle off the road.
Can I SORN a car with no driveway?
Need to SORN a car but have no driveway? Let us outline where you can keep your car until it’s ready for the roads again.
Fine for a SORN car on the road
Find out how much you’re likely to be fined if you keep a SORN car on the road, and what you can do to avoid being penalised.
Can I drive a SORN car to scrap?
We provide you with everything you need to know on how to get your SORN car to a scrapyard when it’s time to say goodbye.
Or, visit our SORNing Knowledge Centre for guides on all topics related to SORNing and storing your car or bike
