V5C Logbook: Everything You Need to Know

The V5C logbook is one of the most important documents for car owners in the UK. Whether you're buying, selling, or updating vehicle details, understanding the purpose of the V5C is essential. Issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), this certificate confirms who is responsible for registering and taxing the vehicle.


In this guide, we’ll break down what a V5C is, what it includes, and how to use it when transferring ownership or applying for a replacement or even if you're planning to make a number plate for your vehicle.


What is a V5C Logbook?


The V5C logbook, officially called the V5C Registration Certificate, is a document that records the registered keeper of a vehicle. It’s not proof of ownership, but it shows who is responsible for the vehicle in terms of tax, MOT, and official communications.


Key Details in a V5C:



  • ‣ Vehicle make and model

  • ‣ Registration number

  • ‣ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

  • ‣ Engine size and fuel type

  • ‣ Colour of the vehicle

  • ‣ Name and address of the registered keeper

  • ‣ Details of any previous keepers


Why Is the V5C Important?


This document is needed for several reasons:



  • ‣ To tax a vehicle

  • ‣ To update vehicle details with the DVLA

  • ‣ When selling or transferring ownership

  • ‣ To apply for a new MOT certificate

  • ‣ To scrap or export a vehicle


For buyers, checking the V5C helps confirm that the seller is the registered keeper. If you’re buying privately, the address on the logbook should match where the car is being viewed. If it doesn’t, ask the seller for an explanation.


What Does the V5C Look Like?


The V5C is a red and blue paper document with multiple sections. It includes all the necessary information about the vehicle and has marked areas for changes, updates, and ownership transfers.


Keep it in a safe place—losing it can delay selling or taxing the vehicle.


Breakdown of the V5C Sections


The V5C has 10 sections. Here’s what each section covers:



  1. Vehicle Details
    Includes registration number, VIN, make, model, colour, engine size, and fuel type.

  2. Registered Keeper
    Shows the current registered keeper’s name and address.

  3. Special Notes
    Includes additional vehicle notes such as if it was imported or previously used as a taxi.

  4. Changes to Vehicle Details
    To be used when updating details like colour or engine modifications.

  5. Previous Keepers
    List previous owners, their addresses, and date of ownership changes.

  6. New Keeper or Updated Details
    To be completed when there’s a change of registered keeper or a name/address update.

  7. New Keeper Declaration
    This must be signed by both the seller and buyer during a change of ownership.

  8. Motor Trader Notification
    For use by motor traders when the vehicle is taken into stock.

  9. Sale/Transfer to Trader, Insurer or Dismantler
    To be completed and sent to the DVLA by the seller when the vehicle is sold to a motor trader or dismantler.

  10. New Keeper Supplement (Green Slip)
    Given to the buyer as proof of registration while waiting for their updated V5C.


How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership


Private Sale


When selling a car privately:



  • ‣ Fill out Sections 6 and 7 with the buyer.

  • ‣ Tear off Section 10 and give it to the buyer (green slip).

  • ‣ Send the rest of the V5C to the DVLA by post.

  • ‣ The buyer can use the green slip to tax the vehicle straight away.


Selling to a Motor Trader



  • ‣ Fill out Section 9 and submit it to the DVLA.

  • ‣ The trader completes Section 8 with their business details.

  • ‣ Keep a copy for your records.


You can also update ownership online through the DVLA website, which is faster than posting the V5C.


How to Apply for a New V5C


If your logbook is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement by:



  • ‣ Visiting www.gov.uk

  • ‣ Calling the DVLA

  • ‣ Completing a V62 form (application for a V5C)


There is a £25 fee for replacement, and you’ll need:



  • ‣ Registration number

  • ‣ VIN or chassis number

  • ‣ Your name and the vehicle's registered address


You should receive the new V5C within five working days. If not, contact the DVLA. If it’s not received within six weeks and you haven’t contacted them, you may need to pay again.


Final Tips



  • ‣ Always check that the V5C matches the vehicle and seller's details.

  • ‣ Never buy a vehicle without seeing the V5C.

  • ‣ Store your V5C in a safe place—it's required for many legal and tax-related actions.

  • ‣ Keep your V5C details updated with the DVLA to avoid penalties.


Conclusion


The V5C logbook plays a key role in legal vehicle ownership in the UK. Whether you’re buying, selling, or updating your vehicle details, managing this document correctly keeps everything running smoothly and legally.


And if you’re looking to make a number plate that complies with UK regulations, don’t forget you’ll need a valid V5C to get started. Visit Easy Number Plates for fast and DVLA-compliant plates, made to your exact specification.