DVLA letter on doormat means drivers will save £2,745 a year

A DVLA letter can save drivers £2,475 a year. Motorists have been told to ensure they notify the DVLA if their car is off the road and untaxed - and potentially save up to £2,745 a year according to experts from LeaseCar.uk.

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Times are tough at the moment and a lot of people are making some difficult decisions when it comes to how to save money. Some are choosing not to run their cars and are opting for public transport instead.

"But many don’t realise they could end up with a fine even if their car does not leave the drive. Unless they tell DVLA and obtain a SORN notification the authorities will see the vehicle as untaxed and therefore they could be fined. Receiving a penalty fine when you are actually trying to save cash would be a bitter pill to swallow so we want to make sure all motorists are fully informed of the legal requirements.

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“And once you have an approved SORN application, the penalties for taking the car on the road untaxed are extensive. Make sure you abide by the law at all times.” You’ll get a refund for any full months of remaining tax. You cannot use the vehicle on the road until you tax it again.

You do not need to make a SORN for a vehicle you’ve already sold. Your SORN will start immediately if either your vehicle tax has expired or you’re not applying in the month your vehicle tax is due to expire, the DVLA explains on its website.

It states: "Your SORN will start on the first day of the next month if you apply in the month your vehicle tax is due to expire." You can apply using the 11-digit number in your vehicle log book (V5C) or 16-digit reference number on your vehicle tax reminder.

Your vehicle tax reminder can be a letter (V11), email or text message.