Road traffic
Using an untaxed vehicle (with a SORN) on a public road
Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994, s.29 / related provisions
England & Wales. Elements, mode of trial, maximum and defences — not a charging or outcome predictor.
- Triable
- Summary only
- Maximum penalty
- Excise penalty of Level 4
Actus reus
- Uses or keeps a vehicle which is unlicensed (VERA 1994, s.29(1)). A vehicle is unlicensed if no vehicle licence or trade licence is in force (s.29(2)).
- This guideline is the s.29(3A) SORN-aggravated form: the accused has furnished a declaration that the vehicle will not be used or kept on a public road, and the s.29(1) offence is committed within the prescribed period. Using on a public road while SORN’d is the usual fact pattern.
Mens rea
- Using or keeping an unlicensed vehicle. Exceptions (nil licence, valid SORN and not used/kept on a public road, motor-trader premises) must be raised by evidence; the Crown then disproves them (s.29(2E)).
Defences
Licence in force · Valid exception in s.29(2A)–(2C) (and the SORN terms were not breached) · Not the user or keeper · Not used or kept as alleged
Sentencing Council
Sentencing Council guideline effective 13 July 2026. Offence range: Discharge to Band C excise penalty This offence is non-endorsable and does not attract penalty poin.
At the police station
ANPR and the DVLA SORN record first. Ordinary untaxed use without a SORN is the other s.29 guideline.
When to involve a rep or solicitor
Police station advice is free under legal aid and is not means-tested.
Authoritative sources for this page
Statute plus Sentencing Council (and CPS where listed) are the two primary sources we used for mode of trial, maximum and elements. Case links are from our verified registry only.