Press release 17:The White Helmets display their support for DVLA campaign against bike tax evaders

The Royal Signals’ famous White Helmets Motorcycle Display Team joined forces with sports presenter Suzi Perry today in Dorset to show their support for the new Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) campaign targeting motorbike tax evaders.

The DVLA is launching its ‘No Way Out’ campaign which aims to remind bikers not to take their bikes on the road if they have a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) in force. All motorbikes need a valid tax disc to be used or kept on the public road.

The DVLA has now doubled its wheel-clamping operation, so it is now even more likely you will be caught if your bike is untaxed. If bikers do not want their bikes to be clamped, towed or even crushed, they must have a valid tax disc if their bike is kept or used on the road.

This campaign will bring benefits to all road users as a taxed vehicle is more likely to be insured and roadworthy, making the roads safer for all.

Suzi Perry said: "During the summer months it’s all too easy to jump on your bike for a quick spin. But it’s very important that all bikers ensure that their bikes are road worthy and taxed, even if they don’t use them regularly. That’s why I’m supporting the No Way Out campaign to promote rider responsibility."

If motorcyclists do not intend to use/keep their motorbike on a public road they must tell DVLA by making a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). SORN lasts for 12 months. This will prevent motorcyclists from incurring penalties if their tax disc runs out. The fine for making a false SORN declaration is £5,000.

For more information visit on taxing your motorbike go to www.direct.gov.uk/motoring

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 Notes to Editors:

1. Members of the public can report unlicensed vehicles to DVLA online at http://forms.dvla.gov.uk/public/unlic_veh/report_online_dg.htm
2. For clamped vehicles the release penalties are high, £80. In addition, a valid vehicle licence must also be produced. If a licence cannot be produced, a surety (£120 for a car or motorcycle, up to £600 for other vehicles) must be paid before the vehicle can be released. The surety payment is forfeited if a valid tax disc is not produced within 2 weeks.
3. If you do not need an MOT, or if you have a new-style computerised MOT certificate, and you have a vehicle registration certificate (V5C) in your name and current address, you can apply to tax your vehicle online at www.direct.gov.uk/taxdisc or by phoning 0870 850 4444 (textphone 0870 850 4445)