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Vehicle Registration Document Information

This section provides important information about vehicle registration or 'log book'. The official term used is the V5C Vehicle Registration document information.

Other important topics include guidance and references issued by Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA).

So, what is the V5C logbook registration of a vehicle?

Having a vehicle registration V5C log book establishes clear ownership. It is also used for taxing vehicle owners and motorists.

A unique vehicle identification number (VIN) identifies the majority of vehicles. But, only registered vehicles carry a V5C Vehicle Registration certificate and display licence plates.

You will find extra guidance explaining how to register your vehicle. Check the process to change your name and address on the V5 document.

You can also learn what steps you need to take if you sell your car or motorcycle. You must also follow the rules for scrapping a car in the United Kingdom.

What is the V5C Log Book Document?

In simple terms the V5C document is the registration contract. It records and tracks who owns the car or vehicle. The V5C (and a receipt) are the most important documents to obtain when you buy a car. You will need to hand over the log book when you sell a vehicle.

What information is on a vehicle registration document? Before you part with your money, you should check that the person stated on the V5C document is the actual owner. Also, make sure that same person is the one who is selling the car.


DVLA Vehicle Registration Guide

Apply for V5C Logbook

Get V5C Logbook

You need to replace a vehicle log book if the original got damaged, lost, or stolen. You will need to get a new logbook if you did not get one with a new vehicle.

V5C Change Address

You must inform DVLA for a log book change of address. It is a legal requirement to update your name or change address on V5 log book.

V5C Change Class

You must inform DVLA if you change the vehicle classification. This section clarifies when to change vehicle details on V5C registration certificate and where to send the form.


Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency

Contact DVLA

Use this online service to find the correct phone number, email address, or postal information to contact DVLA registration. They deal with enquiries about vehicle road tax and driving licences.

Note: They also process applications, V5C documents, number plates, and a list of health conditions for driving rules in the United Kingdom.

DVLA Data Request

Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency database stores sets of specialist vehicle data. This bulk information provides useful statistics and analysis for certain companies and buyers.

Informing DVLA

You must inform DVLA when a vehicle does not belong to you any longer. Thus, tell them if you transfer ownership or buy a vehicle as a motor trader or the new registered keeper.

Motor Insurance Database

MID is a free online service to check if a vehicle is insured and whether it has already been registered on the Motor Insurance Database.

Requesting Information

You can request details about a vehicle’s registered keeper from DVLA records. It is one way to give out parking tickets or to apportion responsibility after an accident.

Used Car Check

It is a legal requirement to register all vehicles in the United Kingdom. The guide explains the process for registering different types of vehicles and the costs involved.

Vehicle Registration

It is a legal requirement to register all vehicles in the United Kingdom. The guide explains the process for registering different types of vehicles and the costs involved.


Motor Trade

Schemes for Motor Traders

Check the rules for the 3 different types of vehicle registration schemes for motor traders. They are the non-secure registration scheme, the secure registration scheme, and AFRL system.

Trade Licence Plates

The DVLA issue trade licences and trade licence plates for those who operate in the motor industry. Car manufacturers, dealers, and repairers will need to use trade plates.


Scrapping Your Vehicle

Find a Scrap Yard

Search online to find a breaker’s yard or dismantler to scrap your vehicle. An authorised treatment facility (ATF) is where you should take your vehicle to get scrapped.

Scrap a Car

How to scrap your own vehicle and deal with insurance write-offs. You should use an authorised treatment facility (ATF) when scrapping a car.

Written Off Vehicle

Most vehicles with severe damage get scrapped and written off by an insurance company. But, there is a set procedure to inform DVLA about a write off vehicle.


Stolen Vehicle Check

Buying a Used Car?

How can you be sure you are not buying a stolen vehicle from a private seller? So, using the DVLA stolen vehicle check free will help you ensure it is a genuine sale.

Vehicle Got Stolen?

You must report a stolen vehicle to the police and to the insurance company. In some cases, you may also need to inform the DVLA.


Vehicle Identification Number

There are several reasons for knowing how to find a vehicle identification number. The help guide explains ‘what is a VIN’ and why DVLA sometimes issue ‘Q’ registration numbers.


Vehicle Registration Document V5C Explained with Categories Overview