Understanding Your V5C Log Book
If you've misplaced, had stolen, or otherwise damaged your V5C registration certificate, commonly known as a log book, you will need to obtain a duplicate to maintain accurate vehicle records. This official document from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is crucial for proving vehicle ownership, updating details, and informing the DVLA about changes such as selling the vehicle or changing its colour. Without a valid V5C, managing your vehicle's legal status becomes significantly more complicated, potentially leading to issues when buying or selling.
The V5C log book contains essential information about your vehicle, including its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine number, registration number, and details about the registered keeper. It serves as proof of registered ownership and is a legal requirement for all vehicles used on public roads in the UK. Therefore, ensuring you have a correct and up-to-date V5C is paramount for any vehicle owner, and knowing how to replace it if lost or damaged is a vital piece of knowledge for any driver.
When you need a duplicate V5C, the process is handled directly by the DVLA. It's important to understand that this is not a service offered by dealerships or third-party companies; only the DVLA can issue official replacement documents. The primary reason for needing a duplicate is usually one of the following: the original has been lost, it has been stolen, or it has been damaged to the point where it is no longer legible or usable. In any of these scenarios, you must inform the DVLA to get a replacement.
- Obtain a duplicate V5C log book for lost, stolen, or damaged documents.
- The V5C proves vehicle ownership and is a legal requirement.
- Only the DVLA can issue replacement V5C registration certificates.
- Damage or loss necessitates informing the DVLA promptly.
What is a V5C?
The V5C, or 'Your vehicle log book', is the official registration certificate issued by the DVLA for vehicles registered in Great Britain. It's a fundamental document that serves as proof of the vehicle's registration and details who the registered keeper is. This document is distinct from your insurance certificate or MOT certificate, though all are legally required for road use. The V5C confirms the vehicle's identity, including its make, model, colour, chassis number, and engine number, alongside the keeper's personal details and the date the vehicle was first registered. It is not a document that proves you are the legal owner in terms of title, but rather the person responsible for the vehicle for licensing and taxation purposes.
Why Do You Need a V5C?
The V5C serves multiple critical functions for vehicle keepers. Firstly, it is a legal requirement to have it in your possession or be able to access its information. When you buy a vehicle, the seller should hand over the V5C, or a specific part of it (like the 'new keeper's supplement'), to ensure the DVLA is informed of the change of ownership. If you are selling your vehicle, you must inform the DVLA that you have sold it, usually by completing a section of the V5C and sending it off, or using the online service. This process is often referred to as 'telling DVLA you've sold your car' or 'informing DVLA car sold'.
Furthermore, the V5C is essential if you plan to make significant changes to your vehicle, such as changing its colour or engine. You are legally obligated to update the V5C with this information and send it back to the DVLA. It is also used when changing the vehicle's tax class (e.g., from private to light goods) or if you are exporting a vehicle. In essence, any administrative change related to your vehicle's registration details, including keeping the document up to date, requires the V5C. If you have lost your log book, you cannot complete many of these essential administrative tasks, hence the need for a duplicate.
The V5C log book is the primary document for managing your vehicle's registration status with the DVLA.
When Is a Duplicate Necessary?
A duplicate V5C log book becomes necessary under a few specific circumstances, all related to the original document's unavailability or damage. The most common reason is simple misplacement or loss. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to put a document down and forget where it is, or it might be accidentally discarded. If you've searched thoroughly and are certain the original V5C is lost, you must apply for a replacement.
Theft is another significant reason. If your vehicle was broken into and the V5C was among the items stolen, you should report the theft to the police and then inform the DVLA about the missing document. In such cases, the DVLA can issue a duplicate to you. Lastly, physical damage to the document can render it unusable. If your V5C has been torn, water-damaged, or otherwise defaced so that it is illegible or its security features are compromised, you will need to apply for a duplicate. It is important to note that if the damage is minor, the DVLA might still accept it, but it is always safer to obtain a new one if there is any doubt.
Applying for a Duplicate V5C Log Book
If your V5C log book is lost, stolen, or damaged, the process to obtain a duplicate is straightforward and managed by the DVLA. You do not need to visit a physical location or contact a third party; the application can be made online or by post. The DVLA aims to make this process as efficient as possible to ensure vehicle keepers can quickly regain the necessary documentation to manage their vehicles legally.
The quickest way to get a replacement is typically via the DVLA's online service. This method often results in receiving the duplicate V5C log book faster than applying by post. However, if you prefer or if there's a reason you cannot use the online service, the postal method is also available. Regardless of the method chosen, you will need to provide specific details to verify your identity and the vehicle's information.
It is important to be aware that there may be a small fee for a duplicate V5C, although this can change. Always check the current DVLA fees for replacement documents before you apply. The DVLA will not send a duplicate V5C log book if the vehicle is currently taxed or if it is being exported, as different procedures apply in those instances. Therefore, ensure your vehicle's status is correctly reflected before proceeding with the duplicate application.
The primary methods for requesting a duplicate V5C log book are online or by post.
Online Application Process
Applying for a duplicate V5C log book online is the recommended approach due to its speed and convenience. The DVLA's official website provides a dedicated service for this. You will typically be guided through a series of steps requiring you to input information about yourself and the vehicle. This usually includes your postcode, the vehicle's registration number, and possibly details from a previous V5C if you have one, or other identifying information about the vehicle and its keeper.
You will need to be the registered keeper of the vehicle to apply. If you have recently bought the vehicle and haven't yet received the V5C in your name, you might need to wait until that process is complete or use the 'new keeper's supplement' if you have it and are trying to replace that. The online system is designed to be user-friendly, and it will confirm your application details before submission. Upon successful submission, you should receive a confirmation, and the DVLA will then dispatch your duplicate V5C log book by post.
Postal Application Process
For those who prefer not to apply online, or if there are specific reasons preventing online application, a postal route is available. You will need to download a form from the DVLA website or request one to be sent to you. The specific form for requesting a duplicate is usually the 'Application for a duplicate vehicle registration certificate' form, often designated as V888. This form requires careful completion with accurate details about the vehicle and the registered keeper.
You will need to provide the vehicle's registration number, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and the engine number. You'll also need to state your name and address as the registered keeper. It is crucial to fill out the form accurately to avoid delays or rejection. Once completed, the form should be sent to the DVLA address specified on the form itself. The DVLA will then process your application and send the duplicate V5C log book to your registered address.
Information Required for Application
When applying for a duplicate V5C log book, whether online or by post, you'll need to have certain key pieces of information ready. The DVLA requires this data to identify both you as the registered keeper and the specific vehicle in question. This information helps prevent fraudulent applications and ensures the correct document is issued.
Essential details typically include: your full name and current address (as the registered keeper), the vehicle's full registration number, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) – this is often found on the vehicle itself, usually on the dashboard or door frame, and on any previous V5C documents – and the engine number. If you have lost your V5C, you may need to refer to other documents such as your MOT certificate, insurance documents, or service records that might contain the VIN or engine number. Providing accurate information is paramount for a smooth application process.
What to Do If Your V5C Was Stolen
If your V5C log book was stolen, it's crucial to act swiftly to protect yourself and your vehicle. A stolen V5C, especially if taken along with the vehicle itself or other sensitive documents, poses a risk. The first and most important step is to report the theft to the police. This not only helps in their investigation but also provides you with a crime reference number, which may be required by the DVLA or your insurance provider.
Once you have reported the theft to the police, you must then inform the DVLA. You can do this when you apply for a replacement V5C log book. When you make your application (either online or by post), you should clearly state that the original document was stolen. This notification alerts the DVLA to the circumstances, and they can flag the original document as no longer valid to prevent any potential misuse.
Receiving a duplicate V5C log book after theft follows the same application procedure as for a lost or damaged document. You will need to provide the necessary vehicle and keeper details. It is advisable to keep a record of the police crime reference number for your own files. If the stolen V5C was part of a larger theft of vehicle documents, ensure all relevant authorities and insurers are notified accordingly.
Report a stolen V5C log book to both the police and the DVLA immediately.
Reporting to the Police
Reporting a stolen V5C log book to the police is a non-negotiable first step. This provides an official record of the incident. When you contact the police, be prepared to provide details such as your name, address, the vehicle's registration number, and the circumstances surrounding the theft. If the V5C was stolen from your home or vehicle, specify this. You will be given a crime reference number, which is essential for your records and may be needed by other parties.
This crime reference number acts as proof that you have officially reported the theft. It can be vital if any fraudulent activity is later attempted using details from your stolen V5C. Ensure you get this reference number in writing or note it down accurately. The police will use this information to try and track down the stolen items or identify the perpetrators.
Informing the DVLA About Stolen Documents
After reporting the theft to the police, your next critical action is to inform the DVLA. You can do this as part of the application for a duplicate V5C log book. When you use the online service or fill out the postal form (V888), there is usually an option or section to indicate the reason for needing a duplicate, which includes 'stolen'.
By informing the DVLA that the document was stolen, they can take appropriate measures to invalidate the original V5C. This prevents anyone else from trying to use it, for example, to falsely sell your vehicle or claim ownership. The DVLA will then issue you with a brand-new V5C log book with the same vehicle registration number but potentially a new document reference number, ensuring your records are secure and up-to-date.
What Happens Next?
Once you have reported the theft to the police and initiated the application for a duplicate V5C log book with the DVLA, you enter a waiting period. The police will conduct their investigation, though recovery of stolen items is not always guaranteed. The DVLA will process your application for the replacement document.
You should expect to receive the duplicate V5C log book by post within a few weeks. The exact timeframe can vary depending on the DVLA's current workload. During this period, and until you receive your new V5C, you may need to rely on other documents like your vehicle's insurance certificate or MOT certificate if asked for proof of registration or legal status. It's always wise to keep all your vehicle-related documents in a secure place.
Alternatives and Related Processes
While the primary focus is on obtaining a duplicate V5C log book when the original is lost, stolen, or damaged, there are other related processes and scenarios that vehicle keepers might encounter. Understanding these can save confusion and ensure you are handling your vehicle's administration correctly with the DVLA. These often involve informing the DVLA about changes or confirming details.
For instance, if you've recently purchased a vehicle, you'll receive a part of the V5C from the seller to inform the DVLA of the new keeper. This is a crucial step in the 'change of ownership' process. If you are the seller, you must also diligently inform the DVLA that you have sold the car, using the relevant section of the V5C or the online service. This is often phrased as 'tell DVLA sold car' or 'inform DVLA car sold' by users.
If your V5C is damaged but still legible, you might be tempted to keep using it. However, it's always best practice to apply for a duplicate to avoid any potential issues, especially if the damage obscures important details or security features. A damaged log book can sometimes be rejected by authorities or during transactions. Therefore, even minor damage warrants consideration for replacement.
Always update the DVLA with any changes to your vehicle's details or ownership.
What to Do When You Buy a Car
When you purchase a vehicle, the seller should provide you with the V5C registration certificate. From this document, you will take the 'new keeper's supplement' (usually section 2) to notify the DVLA that you are now the registered keeper. You should fill this section out accurately and promptly. The seller will retain the rest of the V5C and send the relevant part to the DVLA, or use the online service to declare the car sold.
You, as the new keeper, will then receive a new V5C log book in your name from the DVLA, typically within a few weeks. This new document will have a different document reference number than the one you received from the seller. It's vital to complete this process correctly to ensure the vehicle is registered in your name for tax and insurance purposes. If the seller fails to provide the V5C or the new keeper's supplement, you will need to contact the DVLA to register as the new keeper using form V62.
Telling DVLA You've Sold Your Car
As a seller, informing the DVLA that you have sold your car is a critical responsibility. This process, often referred to as 'telling DVLA you've sold your car', absolves you of any further responsibility for the vehicle, such as road tax or parking fines incurred by the new owner. You can usually do this by completing the relevant section of the V5C log book and sending it to the DVLA.
Alternatively, and often more quickly, you can use the DVLA's online service to notify them that you have sold the vehicle. You will need specific details from the V5C, such as the vehicle's registration number and a document reference number. It is crucial to ensure the buyer is given the correct part of the V5C, or to use the online service accurately. If you don't inform the DVLA, you could still be held liable for the vehicle.
Changing Vehicle Details
The V5C log book must be kept up-to-date with any changes to the vehicle's specifications. If you modify your vehicle in a way that changes its official details, such as repainting it a different colour, changing the engine, or fitting a private registration plate, you must inform the DVLA. This typically involves sending your V5C log book to the DVLA with a letter explaining the changes. They will then issue you with a new V5C reflecting the updated information.
The DVLA's website provides guidance on which modifications require an updated V5C. For example, changing the engine size or type usually requires an update. Minor aesthetic changes, like fitting a spoiler or alloys, typically do not. Always check with the DVLA if you are unsure whether a modification needs to be declared. Failure to update the V5C could lead to issues with insurance or future sales.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Duplicate?
The timeframe for receiving a duplicate V5C log book from the DVLA can vary, but there are general expectations for both online and postal applications. Understanding these typical durations can help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary worry.
The DVLA aims to process applications efficiently, but external factors such as seasonal demand or operational capacity can influence how long it actually takes. It's important to remember that the DVLA deals with millions of vehicle registrations, so some waiting time is inevitable. However, the process is designed to be as quick as possible to minimise disruption for vehicle keepers.
Expect your duplicate V5C log book to arrive within a few weeks.
Online Application Turnaround Time
When you apply for a duplicate V5C log book online, the DVLA typically aims to dispatch the replacement document within a shorter period compared to postal applications. This is because online systems allow for faster data entry and processing. While specific delivery times are not guaranteed and can fluctuate, many users report receiving their duplicate V5C within 10 working days, though it can sometimes take up to 2 to 3 weeks.
The DVLA will send the new document by post to your registered address. It's vital to ensure your address is correct and up-to-date on DVLA records before you apply. Any discrepancies could lead to delays or the document being sent to the wrong address. If you haven't received it after a reasonable period, you may need to contact the DVLA to check the status of your application.
Postal Application Turnaround Time
If you choose to apply for a duplicate V5C log book by post using a form like the V888, the processing time is generally longer. This is due to the manual handling of paper forms, which can be slower than automated online processes. Applications sent by post may take longer to be processed and dispatched.
Typically, a postal application for a duplicate V5C can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks from the date the DVLA receives your completed form. This timeframe includes the time it takes for the application to be received, processed, and for the new document to be printed and posted to you. Again, these are estimates, and actual delivery times can vary. Always allow ample time before you need the document urgently.
What to Do If Your Duplicate Is Delayed
If you have applied for a duplicate V5C log book and the expected timeframe has passed without you receiving it, it's time to follow up. Do not assume it is lost; contact the DVLA directly to inquire about the status of your application. You will likely need to provide your application details, such as the date you applied, your vehicle registration number, and your personal details, to help them locate your case.
The DVLA's contact centre can provide information on your application's progress. If the document has been dispatched, they may be able to confirm the date of posting. If there was an issue with your application, they will advise you on the next steps. In some instances, you may need to reapply if the original application was not processed correctly or if the document was returned as undeliverable. Keep any correspondence or reference numbers you receive from the DVLA during this process.
Costs Associated with a Duplicate V5C
When you need to obtain a duplicate V5C log book, it's natural to wonder about any associated costs. The DVLA, as a government agency, charges fees for certain administrative services, and replacing a V5C is one of them. Understanding these costs upfront can help you budget and be prepared when making your application.
It's important to note that fees can be subject to change. Government bodies periodically review their charges for services. Therefore, the most accurate and up-to-date information on the cost of a duplicate V5C will always be found on the official DVLA website or by contacting them directly. Relying on outdated information could lead to confusion or unexpected charges.
Always check the current official DVLA fee for a duplicate V5C log book.
Is There a Fee for a Duplicate V5C?
Yes, generally there is a fee charged by the DVLA for issuing a duplicate V5C log book. This fee covers the administrative costs involved in processing your application, generating the new document, and dispatching it to you. The DVLA uses these fees to maintain its services and systems.
The exact amount of the fee is subject to review and can be updated by the DVLA. For the most precise figure, you should always refer to the official DVLA website. They usually list all current fees for vehicle registration services clearly. This ensures that you are paying the correct amount and avoid any discrepancies.
Where to Find Current Fee Information
The definitive source for current DVLA fees is the official GOV.UK website, specifically the sections related to vehicle registration and the V5C document. When you navigate to the application process for a duplicate V5C (whether online or by post), the relevant fee will be clearly stated.
For online applications, the fee is usually displayed before you confirm payment. For postal applications, the fee will be detailed on the application form itself (e.g., V888) or on the accompanying guidance notes. If you are unsure, the DVLA contact centre is also a reliable source for fee information.
Free Alternatives or Waivers?
In most standard circumstances, there is no provision for waiving the fee for a duplicate V5C log book. The fee is a standard charge for the administrative service provided by the DVLA. Unlike some other services where hardship exceptions might apply, vehicle registration fees are generally fixed.
However, it's worth noting that the DVLA may sometimes adjust its fee structure. While a fee is standard, it's always prudent to check the official DVLA website for any updates or specific circumstances that might apply. If you encounter a situation where you believe a fee waiver might be applicable due to exceptional circumstances, you would need to contact the DVLA directly to discuss your case. But for the vast majority of duplicate V5C requests, the fee is applicable and expected.
Keeping Your V5C Safe Moving Forward
Once you have successfully obtained a duplicate V5C log book, the priority is to ensure it doesn't suffer the same fate as the original. Losing this important document can be a hassle, so implementing a robust system for keeping it safe is highly recommended. Think of it as a valuable official paper that requires careful handling and secure storage.
Many people ask where the best place is to keep their V5C log book. The answer usually depends on your personal circumstances and how you prefer to manage important documents. Some prefer to keep it with other vital paperwork at home, while others opt for a more portable but secure solution. The key is to have a designated spot that is both accessible when needed and safe from damage or loss.
Designate a secure, consistent location for your V5C log book to prevent future loss.
Recommended Storage Locations
For many vehicle keepers, the most practical approach is to store the V5C log book with other important household documents. This could be in a filing cabinet, a dedicated document wallet, or a secure safe at home. The advantage of this is that all your essential papers are in one place, making them easier to find when required.
Alternatively, some people choose to keep the V5C in a vehicle document wallet or folder that is kept securely in the vehicle itself. However, this carries a higher risk if the vehicle is stolen or broken into, as the V5C would be lost along with the car. Therefore, if you opt for this method, ensure the wallet is discreet and well-hidden, or consider removing the V5C when the vehicle is parked in vulnerable locations for extended periods.
Tips for Secure Document Management
To avoid the inconvenience of needing a duplicate log book again, adopt good document management habits. A simple yet effective tip is to establish a 'home' for your V5C. Whenever you handle it, whether for updating details or checking information, make a conscious effort to return it to its designated spot immediately afterwards. This creates a routine that reduces the chance of misplacement.
Consider using document organisers or wallets that are clearly labelled. This not only helps in finding the V5C but also in keeping it protected from damage. For electronic records, while the V5C itself is a physical document, you can take clear photographs or scans of it for your personal records. Keep these digital copies in a secure cloud storage or password-protected folder. This won't replace the official document but can provide reference information if the original is lost again.
What to Do If You Lose It Again
If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself needing a duplicate V5C log book for a second time, don't panic. The process is exactly the same as the first time. You will need to reapply through the DVLA, either online or by post, and pay the applicable fee. The DVLA does not typically limit the number of times you can apply for a replacement document, as long as you can provide the required information and pay the fee.
However, repeated losses might prompt you to reassess your document storage habits. If you are consistently misplacing important papers, it might be beneficial to explore more secure storage solutions, such as a home safe, or to simplify your filing system. The DVLA's primary concern is that the correct registered keeper has a valid V5C, so as long as you can navigate the application process, they will issue a replacement. Take the opportunity to reinforce your document management strategy.
When is a Duplicate Not Needed?
Not every situation involving your V5C registration certificate requires you to apply for a duplicate. Understanding these exceptions can save you time and money. The DVLA has specific procedures for different scenarios, and knowing when a replacement isn't necessary is just as important as knowing when it is.
For example, if you've simply moved house, you don't need a whole new V5C log book. Instead, you need to update your address with the DVLA. Similarly, if you have bought a new car, the process involves transferring ownership with parts of the existing V5C, not replacing it for yourself immediately. Only when the original document itself is physically gone or unusable does a duplicate become the required solution.
Always confirm with the DVLA if a duplicate is truly required for your specific situation.
Changing Your Address
If you move house, you are legally required to inform the DVLA of your new address. However, this does not mean you need to apply for a duplicate V5C log book. Instead, you update your registered address with the DVLA. The DVLA will then issue you with an updated V5C document reflecting your new address.
You can usually do this online via the GOV.UK website by logging into your vehicle's record, or you can do it by post. This update process ensures that all your official correspondence from the DVLA, including tax reminders and any other vehicle-related notifications, reaches you at your new location. You will receive a new V5C, but it's an amendment to your existing registration, not a replacement for a lost document.
After Buying a Vehicle
When you purchase a vehicle, the seller should provide you with the V5C document, specifically the 'new keeper's supplement'. This section is your proof of purchase and your notification to the DVLA that you are the new registered keeper. The seller will use the remainder of the V5C to inform the DVLA that they have sold the vehicle.
You will then receive a new V5C log book in your name from the DVLA. This is a standard procedure for change of ownership and does not require you to apply for a 'duplicate' V5C. The new V5C is issued because the previous one belonged to the old keeper. If, for some reason, the seller cannot provide you with the V5C or the new keeper's supplement, you will need to complete form V62 to register as the new keeper, which involves a fee.
When the V5C is Damaged but Legible
If your V5C log book is slightly damaged – perhaps a corner is torn, or there's a small ink smudge – but all the essential information (like the registration number, VIN, and keeper's details) is still clearly legible, you might be able to continue using it. The DVLA may still accept a slightly worn document.
However, it is always best practice to err on the side of caution. If the damage compromises the document's integrity, security features, or legibility in any significant way, you should apply for a duplicate. A damaged V5C could cause issues when you need to perform other transactions, such as selling the vehicle or updating details. Therefore, if in doubt, get a replacement. It ensures smooth administrative processes in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Duplicate V5Cs
Navigating the process of replacing official documents can sometimes lead to questions. Here, we address some of the most common queries vehicle keepers have regarding duplicate V5C log books, providing clear and concise answers to help you through the process.
Understanding the nuances of DVLA procedures ensures you handle your vehicle's administration correctly. Whether it's about the application method, required information, or the timing of receiving your document, clarity is key. Below are answers to frequently asked questions.
It's vital to have an accurate and current V5C log book for legal compliance.
How Do I Get a Duplicate Log Book?
You can get a duplicate V5C log book by applying directly to the DVLA. The quickest method is usually online via the GOV.UK website, where you can fill out a request form. Alternatively, you can download the V888 form from the DVLA website and send it by post. You will need to provide your vehicle's registration number, VIN, and engine number, along with your keeper details.
Can I Apply for a Duplicate if My Car is SORN?
Yes, you can apply for a duplicate V5C log book even if your vehicle is declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). Being SORN means the vehicle is not being used on public roads, but you still need the V5C registration document for your records. The application process remains the same.
What if I Don't Have My VIN or Engine Number?
If you've lost your V5C log book and cannot find your VIN or engine number, you may need to check other documents. Look at your vehicle's MOT certificate, insurance documents, or service history records, as these often contain the VIN and engine number. If you still cannot find them, contact the DVLA directly to see what alternative verification methods they may accept.
Can Someone Else Apply for a Duplicate on My Behalf?
Generally, only the registered keeper of the vehicle can apply for a duplicate V5C log book. The DVLA needs to verify your identity and confirm you are the legitimate keeper. In exceptional circumstances, such as incapacitation, a nominated person might be able to assist, but this requires specific authorisation and communication with the DVLA beforehand.
How Do I Know if My V5C is Lost or Stolen?
You know your V5C is lost if you have searched thoroughly and cannot find it anywhere. If you suspect it has been stolen, for instance, if your car was broken into and documents were taken, you should report it to the police. For both lost and stolen documents, the procedure to apply for a replacement V5C log book with the DVLA is the same, but reporting a theft has additional steps.
What if I Received an Incorrect Duplicate V5C?
If you receive a duplicate V5C log book with incorrect information, you must contact the DVLA immediately. Report the error and provide the correct details. They will then arrange for a corrected V5C to be issued to you. It's important to ensure all details are accurate when you first apply to minimise such issues.
Can I Sell My Car Without a V5C Log Book?
You cannot sell your car using the original V5C log book if it is lost or stolen. However, as the seller, you can inform the DVLA you have sold the car using the online service or by completing section 9 of the V5C and sending it to the DVLA. The buyer will then need to apply for a new V5C using form V62. You can also sell your car to a dealer who may be able to assist with the process, but the DVLA must be informed of the sale.