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Changing Address (or Name) on V5C
Do you need to change the address on your vehicle log book (V5C)? Are you unsure how to update your name as the registered keeper?
In most cases, changing the recorded details on a V5C is free. This help guide explains what you need to do and how to avoid a £1,000 fine from DVLA.
How to Tell DVLA You Changed Address?
You MUST inform the DVLA any time your registered address changes or you get a new name (e.g. by deed poll).
It is the law for all cars, lorries, and motorcycles registered in the United Kingdom. You could get fined for not doing so!
Besides that, you will not get the DVLA tax reminder form V11 or a vehicle tax refund if the wrong address is on your V5C.
So, you must send the updated V5C to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to change your address or name.
This section also explains how to update the V5C registration certificate online (e.g. to change address if you lost the vehicle log book).
Failing to inform the DVLA about your V5C change of address is likely to result in a fine up to £1,000.
Change Address on V5C (Log Book)
Follow these simple steps if you have changed your address (but it cannot be a PO Box address). Depending on which style of log book you have you will need to write your new address:
- In section three (3) if yours is the new style log book (e.g. multi-coloured numbered blocks showing on the front cover).
- In section six (6) if you still have the older style log book.
Without removing any sections from your log book, send the complete form (along with any relevant supporting documents) to the DVLA address.
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA
Important: Do not tick the box reserved for 'new keeper' (or fill in your name) if you are using the old style form. You must also change driving licence address and vehicle tax Direct Debit (if you pay that way).
Moving to an Overseas Address
Will you be moving to an address outside of the United Kingdom? If so, another section explains the full process for taking a vehicle out of the UK.
But, you should take the vehicle log book with you so you can register it in the country you move to.
How to Change Name on Logbook
Follow these simple steps if you have changed your name. Depending on which style of car log book you have, you will need to write your new name in full (do not use initials or joint names):
- In section three (3) if yours is the new style log book (e.g. multi-coloured numbered blocks showing on the front cover).
- In section six (6) if you still have the older style log book.
You should include some proof of a name change if a business is the registered keeper of the vehicle (e.g. a certificate of incorporation from Companies House).
Without removing any sections from your log book, send the complete form (along with any relevant supporting documents) to the DVLA address.
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA
Important: Do not tick the box reserved for 'new keeper' if you are using the old style form. Include a cover note stating that your name has changed.
Change Name and Address on V5C
Are you changing your address and your name both at the same time? Unless the name change is from getting married or divorced, you will need to include some evidence of a name change (e.g. a deed poll).
Lost V5C: Need to Change Address?
There is a specific form for changing address on V5C if you have lost the certificate used for vehicle registration.
Follow these steps to get a new logbook:
- Download 'form V62: Application for vehicle registration certificate' online at GOV.UK.
- Fill in the application form V62 with the correct information.
- Send it to the DVLA address with a postal order or cheque to the value of £25.
- Make the cheque or postal order payable to 'DVLA, Swansea'.
- The process for replacing a lost V5C log book can take up to six (6) weeks to complete.
You can contact the DVLA through the GOV.UK website if you do not get your new log book within six weeks.
Note: You need a UK address to apply for a replacement V5C log book. Thus, you should apply before taking a vehicle out of the United Kingdom (also known as permanent export).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Long to Change Address on V5?
In most cases, it will take the DVLA around six (6) weeks to update and change address on V5. Contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if your new logbook does not arrive after waiting six weeks.
What's the Cost of Changing Address on V5C?
As a rule, there is no fee for changing your name and address on a new V5C. Allow a period up to six (6) weeks to get a replacement V5C log book after changing address.
How Do I Tax My Car in the Next Few Weeks?
Tax a Vehicle Online
You can tax your vehicle online before you send the log book (V5C) to the DVLA if it needs to be taxed in the next four (4) weeks.
Tax a Vehicle at the Post Office
You can also tax a vehicle at some of the bigger Post Offices (use the branch finder to check). You have the option to change your V5C name and address details (both at the same time).
But, remember you may also need to take a valid and current MOT test certificate for the vehicle.
Note: The short video produced by the DVLA [2:56 seconds] explains how to change the address on your driving license online.
How to Update Your Vehicle Log Book: Tell DVLA Change of Address