For new drivers or those returning to the road, navigating the world of car ownership can be daunting, especially with unfamiliar terminology. A common question is, “What is a vehicle log book?” Also known as the V5C, this document serves several crucial purposes, making it essential for every car owner to understand its significance.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the vehicle log book, including its uses, replacement procedures, and other vital information.
Understanding the Vehicle Log Book (V5C)
The vehicle log book, officially known as the V5C registration certificate, serves as a record of the vehicle’s registered keeper. It contains essential information, including the keeper’s name and address, as well as details about the vehicle itself, such as its registration number, any modifications, previous keepers, color, and engine size.
The V5C is required for various administrative tasks, including updating personal details with the DVLA, reporting vehicle modifications, applying for a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), scrapping a vehicle, and taxing it. It’s crucial to note that the V5C confirms registered keepership, not ownership.
Registered Keeper vs. Owner
The registered keeper and the owner of a vehicle are not always the same. The owner is the individual or entity that purchased the vehicle and possesses proof of ownership. The registered keeper is the person who uses the vehicle, handles its taxation, and is typically responsible for parking tickets and fines.
Examples where the roles differ include:
- Gifted vehicles: Parents may own a car given to their child, who then becomes the registered keeper.
- Company cars: The company owns the vehicle, while the employee using it is the registered keeper.
Understanding Vehicle Log Books
Typically, a vehicle log book is provided upon purchase. For new vehicles, dealerships often handle registration, with the log book arriving within six weeks. If not, you can register it yourself. For used vehicles, sellers transfer ownership online or by post.
The DVLA advises against purchasing vehicles without a log book due to potential forgery. To verify a log book’s authenticity:
- Cross-reference details: Match the vehicle identification number and engine number with the log book.
- Check for the DVLA watermark: Hold the log book to the light to reveal the official watermark.
- Verify the registered keeper: Ensure the seller’s name matches the registered keeper’s.
- Confirm the address: The seller’s address should align with the log book’s address.
Inspect the serial number: Serial numbers within the ranges BG8229501 to BG9999030 or BI2305501 to BI2800000 may indicate a stolen V5C; contact the police if suspected.
When You’ll Need Your Vehicle Log Book (V5C)
The vehicle log book, or V5C, is essential in several key situations. Here’s a breakdown of when you’ll need it:
Selling Your Car:
- You’ll need the 11-digit reference number from the V5C.
- Provide the buyer with the green ‘new keeper’ slip.
- Inform the DVLA of the sale.
- Expect email confirmation and a letter from the DVLA confirming the transfer.
- The buyer will receive a new V5C within 5 working days.
Scrapping Your Car:
- Inform the DVLA to avoid potential fines.
- Using the V5C simplifies the scrapping process.
- If scrapping at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), give them the V5C, retaining the yellow ‘sell, transfer or part-exchange’ section to send to the DVLA.
- Expect a confirmation letter from the DVLA within approximately four weeks.
- If keeping parts, first declare the vehicle off-road (SORN) and then follow the scrapping procedure.
Registering Your Car as Off Road (SORN):
- Apply for a SORN to avoid paying unnecessary tax and insurance when the vehicle is not in use.
- You’ll need the 11-digit reference number from the V5C or the 16-digit reference number from your vehicle tax reminder letter (V11).
Taxing Your Vehicle:
New vehicle owners will need the green ‘new keeper’ slip from the V5C to tax the vehicle for the first time.
Tax your vehicle using either a recent DVLA reminder letter or your V5C.
DVLA Vehicle Log Book (V5C) Updates
It’s crucial to keep your vehicle log book (V5C) updated with the DVLA regarding any changes to your personal details or vehicle modifications. Failure to do so can result in fines up to £1,000.
Updating Your Address or Name:
- For address changes, write your new address in section 3 (new style log book) or section 6 (old style log book). Remember to also update your driving license address.
- For name changes, write your new full name in the same sections as above. Include a separate note informing the DVLA of the name change.
- If changing both address and name, provide proof of the name change (e.g., deed poll) if it’s not due to marriage or divorce.
- Send the log book and any additional information to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
Updating Vehicle Details:
The DVLA will confirm the changes or notify you if an inspection is needed. They may also inform you of changes to your vehicle tax.
Inform the DVLA of any vehicle modifications, as they may affect your vehicle tax or be deemed unsafe.
Changes requiring DVLA notification include:
- Colour
- Chassis or body shell (replaced or modified)
- Cylinder capacity
- Engine
- Fuel type
- Seating capacity
- Weight of a large vehicle
Further inspections may be required for changes to:
- Body type (e.g., van to campervan conversion)
- Chassis number
- Frame number (motorbikes)
- Wheel plan
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
For these changes, compile relevant evidence as outlined by the DVLA, along with your log book.
Send information for engine size, fuel type, goods vehicle weight, or bus seating capacity changes to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DZ.
Send all other vehicle modification updates to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
Obtaining a Replacement Vehicle Log Book (V5C)
If you’ve misplaced your vehicle log book (V5C), or never received one, it’s crucial to obtain a replacement promptly. This document is essential for taxing or selling your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of the application process:
By Phone (for Lost or Damaged V5C):
- If you’re the registered keeper and need a replacement due to loss or damage, you can apply by phone, provided there are no name, address, or vehicle changes.
- A £25 fee applies.
- Contact the DVLA at 0300 790 6802, Monday to Friday (8am to 7pm) or Saturday (8am to 2pm).
By Post:
- Download and complete form V62.
- Send the completed form with a £25 cheque or postal order (payable to ‘DVLA, Swansea’) to:
- DVLA
- Swansea
- SA99 1DD
If You Didn’t Receive a V5C with Your New Vehicle:
- Download and complete form V62.
- Send the form with the green ‘new keeper’ slip (if available) to the DVLA address above.
- If you don’t have the green slip, include a £25 fee.
Taxing Your Vehicle and Applying for a V5C:
- If you need to tax your vehicle and obtain a V5C simultaneously, visit a Post Office that handles vehicle tax.
- Take your completed V62 form and the £25 fee.
- The Post Office will advise if you can tax your vehicle immediately.
- The new V5C will typically arrive by post within six weeks.
This information provides a clear guide on obtaining a replacement vehicle log book.
