This paper document states the registered keeper of the vehicle – as well as a lot of information about it, and its history. However, the sales receipt of the car will tell you who the owner is.
Due to the significance of the V5C, this guide looks at everything you will need to know as a driver in the UK.
What is a V5C logbook?
The V5C logbook, also known as the V5C registration certificate, is an official document issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), and serves as proof of vehicle registration.
It contains vital information about the vehicle and its owner.
Other vehicle information on the document include make, model, registration number, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine size, fuel type, and colour.
There will also be the name and address of the registered owner, as well as any previous owners. If you are buying a car from a private seller, then the address on the V5C should ideally match the location where the vehicle is being offered for sale. If the two addresses do not match, ask the seller why.
The document is essential for proving who the registered keeper is and for when you come to sell, scrap or completing tasks such as selling the vehicle, scrapping it, or updating the DVLA with any changes.
It is also necessary for taxing the vehicle or getting a new MOT certificate.
What does a V5C look like?
A V5C is an important document, and something that should be stored in a safe place.
If you are looking for your V5C logbook in your pile of paperwork, this is what it looks like:
What information is on a V5C?
The V5C document contains 10 sections that cover different information relating to the vehicle and owner.
Section 1: Vehicle Details
This section includes details on the vehicle’s make and model, registration number, VIN, engine size, fuel type, and colour.
Section 2: Registered Keeper
The next part contains details of the current registered keeper, including their name and address. There is also a space for previous owners if it applies.
Section 3: Special Notes
This section is dedicated for additional information about the vehicle that the DVLA or a new owner will need to know. This includes information if it has been imported or used as a taxi.
Section 4: Changes to Current Vehicle Details
This part of the document is used to notify the DVLA of any changes to the vehicle details, such as a colour change or engine modification.
Section 5: Previous Keeper(s)
If you are looking to buy or sell a car, then this information about the previous keeper(s) of the vehicle, if applicable. This will include previous owner(s) names, addresses, and dates of purchase.
Section 6: New Keeper or New Name/New Address Details
This section should only be completed when there is a change of keeper or if the current keeper's details need updating, including their name and address.
Section 7: New Keeper Declaration
The next step in a new car owner is for both the current and new keepers to sign this section when the vehicle changes hands.
Section 8: Motor Trader Notification
This section should only be used by motor traders when taking possession of the vehicle. This includes their address and the signature of the person acquiring the vehicle.
Section 9: Notification of Sale or Transfer of the Vehicle to a Motor Trader, Insurer, or Dismantler
Once the transaction is completed, this section will need to be filled in and sent to the DVLA. It must include the buyer’s details and seller’s signature.
Section 10: New Keeper’s Supplement (Green Slip)
This is a tear-off slip for the new keeper to retain until they receive the updated V5C from the DVLA. It serves as proof of registration for the new keeper in the interim.
How to apply for a V5C
If you need a new V5C logbook, you can do it via the gov.co.uk website or by calling the DVLA.
The new V5C logbook will then be posted to the address linked to the vehicle.
You will need this document to tax your vehicle.
In order to complete the application, you will need the registration number of the vehicle, VIN, chassis number, name of the owner and the address that the vehicle is linked to.
What to do if you lose your V5C?
If you have lost your V5C, then you will need to contact the DVLA immediately. You can get a replacement via their online portal or over the phone.
Also, if your V5C either stolen or damaged, you can apply for a replacement by filling out a V62 form.
There is a £25 charge from the DVLA to get a replacement V5C form.
You’ll need to provide details on the registration number, VIN, your name, and postcode that the vehicle is registered to.
The new form will arrive within five working days. However, it is advisable to call the DVLA if you have not received it within two weeks.
However, if you have not received your V5C after six weeks and you have not notified DVLA, you’ll have to pay the £25 again to get a replacement.
How to transfer ownership of a car using a V5C
When selling a vehicle in the UK, the new owner will need to fill out Section 6 and 10, and send the V5C to the DVLA.
You’ll need to give the new owner the V5C/2 section – also known as the green slip – as proof of temporary ownership until the new V5C arrives in the post to the new owner’s’ address.
If you are buying the vehicle, ensure that you receive the V5C from the seller and that it is correctly filled out.
Following this, please use the V5C/2 section to tax the vehicle immediately if needed.
For owners who are selling to motor traders, the trader must complete Section 8 and notify the DVLA using Section 9 of the form.
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