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What Is A Car Logbook (V5C)? - What does a log book look like?
Your V5C, commonly known as your car log book, is an official document issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). It proves who the registered keeper of the vehicle is — but it’s important to note, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re the legal owner. Instead, it confirms who is responsible for registering and taxing the vehicle.
The V5C contains key details about your car, including:
The registered keeper’s name and address
The date of first registration
Number of previous registered keepers
The make and model of the car
Colour and engine size
When you decide to scrap your car, having the V5C makes the process smoother and helps ensure all legal requirements are met. You’ll need it to notify DVLA of the vehicle transfer to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) and protect yourself from any future liability.
At Scrap My Car Services, we pride ourselves on not only offering the highest quality scrap car service, but also making sure you have all the information you need every step of the way.
Why Do You Need a V5C?
Your V5C, also known as a car log book, is an essential document when it comes to selling, buying, or scrapping a car. It’s the official DVLA document that shows who the registered keeper of the vehicle is.
If you’re buying a used car, never go ahead with the purchase unless the seller provides a valid V5C. Why? Because in some cases, the car may have been used as security for a logbook loan. That means the previous owner has borrowed money against the car’s value. If they fail to repay the loan, bailiffs may repossess the car—even if you’re the new buyer.
When it comes to scrapping your car, the V5C ensures that the vehicle is properly transferred to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) and that you’re no longer held responsible by the DVLA for road tax or fines.
What Does a V5C Look Like?
The V5C used to be blue, but it’s now red in colour. This updated version is designed to be more secure and easier to recognise. Always check that the details on the log book match the vehicle you’re buying or scrapping.
At Scrap My Car Services, we always advise our customers to have their V5C ready when arranging a car to be scrapped. It makes the process smoother, protects you from future liability, and helps us ensure the DVLA is properly notified.
Do I Need My Car V5C / Log Book to Scrap My Car?
While having your V5C (log book) is helpful when you’re scrapping your car, it’s not strictly essential. If you’ve lost or misplaced it, you can still scrap your vehicle legally.
When you sell your car for scrap, you’ll need to provide photo ID and proof of address to the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). This is a legal requirement under the Scrap Metal Dealers’ Act 2013 to help prevent illegal scrap car trading and theft.
How Do I Order a New V5C?
If you no longer have your log book and want to get a replacement, you can order a new V5C directly from the DVLA. Visit the DVLA website for full details on how to apply. There may be a small fee, and you’ll usually receive the new log book within 5 working days.
Notifying DVLA When You Scrap Your Car
It’s your legal responsibility to notify the DVLA as soon as you transfer ownership of your vehicle, including when you sell your car to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) for scrapping.
If You Have the Log Book (V5C):
When handing over your car to the recycling centre:
The ATF will complete their business details on Section 9 of the V5C (log book).
They’ll give this section back to you.
You then have two options to notify DVLA:
Post it to:
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BDNotify online via the DVLA’s official site:
www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
Failing to inform the DVLA could result in:
Continued responsibility for the vehicle (including fines or penalties).
Road tax charges.
Legal complications if the car is misused after transfer.
Stay on the safe side—always notify the DVLA right away.
Don’t Have Your V5C (Log Book)? Here’s What to Do:
If you’ve lost your V5C, you won’t be able to notify the DVLA online.
Instead, you must write to the DVLA with the following details:
Your full name and address
The vehicle registration number
The date of sale or transfer
The name and address of the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) that collected or received the vehicle
Send this information to:
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD
This ensures you’re no longer legally responsible for the car.
Who Can Help Me Scrap My Car?
Scrap My Car Services makes scrapping your car fast, easy, and fully legal.
Here’s how it works:
Get an instant online quote – Simply enter your registration and postcode.
We compare quotes from our nationwide network of fully licensed ATFs.
Free collection service – No hidden fees or surprise charges.
Best price guaranteed – If your car might be worth more than scrap, we’ll ask for some extra info to get you the best possible offer.
We work only with fully licensed and approved ATFs, so your vehicle is dismantled and recycled legally and responsibly.
Whether your car is:
Old or damaged
Written off
Failing its MOT
Or simply not needed anymore…