V5C registration certificate explained

If you’ve got a new car recently, or changed your name or address, you might have noticed something different about the V5C registration certificate (otherwise known as a log book) that DVLA sent you.

The changes, made earlier this year, aim to make them easier for customers to understand, to make the personal data of any previous keepers more secure, and to help with the move over to digital record keeping.

At first glance, the V5C will look the same, however there are some important differences:

• The previous keeper details have been completely removed, leaving a record of how many there have been.
• The current keepers’ details have been moved to the top of the front page, making the details easier to spot.
• The document number and acquirement date have also been moved to the top. With a reminder to keep the document number safe, to avoid the risk of vehicle fraud.
• There is also now a notice of how DVLA handles your data protection, and a step by step guide on how to fill out your V5C if you need to change any details on it.

It’s not just the front cover that’s changed. Inside the new V5C there are the following changes:

• More room for extra information in the Vehicle Details section.
• The New Keeper and Change of Address sections have been separated, to avoid confusion.
• A Country of Export section has been added for people who are taking their vehicle out of the country for more than 12 months to complete.
• The New Keeper slip has had the name and address field removed, in line with data protection.

DVLA launched a service to enable you to change the address on your vehicle log book (V5C) online.

If you wish to take advantage of this service, you can visit the government website. Simply enter the vehicle registration number, log book (V5C) document reference number and the postcode currently showing on your V5C. When you have entered your new address, your details will update in real time and if you have provided the DVLA with your email address you’ll receive a confirmation email. Your new V5C should arrive within just 5 working days.

If you are selling or scrapping your car, it’s important that you keep your V5C, and only pass on the new keeper slip to the person or company buying your car. You need the rest of the V5C to let DVLA know that you are no longer in possession of the car. Don’t forget to note down the details of the new owner or company.

When selling your scrap car with CarTakeBack, we’ll help you with the DVLA paperwork. And if your car is recycled you’ll be sent a DVLA Certificate of Destruction.