What is a V5C? A guide to your car’s logbook

If you own a car, you almost certainly have a V5C, but why is it so important?

Well, the V5C — often known as a vehicle logbook — is an official record of who is the registered keeper of the car.

That terminology is key as it’s not proof of ownership, rather it shows who is responsible for ensuring the car is taxed for road use.

Though this red slip of paper is not a legally required document, it’s one that’s very handy to have, especially when it comes to selling your car. Read on for all you need to know about the V5C.

What is a V5C?

A V5C gives details of a car and its registered keeper.

The document includes all sorts of information about the car, including its registration number, make and model, colour, body type, engine size, and the VIN. This is the Vehicle Identification Number, and it is unique to the car. Even if the registration number changes (for example, if the car has a private plate) the VIN stays the same.

Other information includes the car’s official carbon dioxide (CO2) output and car tax banding, the registration date, and previous keepers.

The V5C also includes the name and address of the current registered keeper.

The document also has sections to be completed and sent to the DVLA when the car is sold.

What does a V5C look like?

The V5C is a paper logbook. There are two types, and they look quite different.

A blue and green V5C is the older style of logbook, introduced in 2004. The newer red and pink version was introduced in 2012. The DVLA has encouraged owners to change for the newer style of logbook, so it’s now quite unusual to see the older blue and green kind.

The colours were changed after a number of blank old-style V5C documents were stolen. The new colours made the stolen documents less useful to thieves.

When should I update my V5C?

You don’t need to update your V5C on a regular basis if your circumstances of ownership don’t change. That said, you will need to request a new one if:

• You have changed your address or name
• Significant modifications have been made to the car (such as colour, fuel conversion or a number of seats)

If you’re giving the car to someone within your household or another family member, you’ll need to fill out the new keeper slip — just as you would when selling it.

As and when you sell your car, the V5C will need to be updated. For a private sale, you’ll complete sections six and eight. If the car being sold to a trader, an insurance company, or it is being scrapped, you will need to fill out section nine.

You would sell your car to the insurer if it is written off – in other words, it has been damaged and is beyond economic repair.

Don’t make the mistake of hanging on to the V5C if the car is no longer yours. You could find yourself responsible for parking tickets or speeding fines that should go to the new keeper.

How do I change the address on my V5C?

It’s easy enough to change the address on the V5C if you move house. You can do it online or by post.

Updating the V5C address online

To change the address online, you must be the vehicle’s registered keeper. You will need the registration number and the vehicle logbook reference number. The address must be in the UK. Anyone with an address in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man will not be able to change the address using the online service.

If the car needs to be taxed within the next four weeks you’ll need to tax the vehicle before the change of address can be made.

Oddly, the online service is only available from 7am to 8pm.

Updating the V5C address by post

If you prefer, the address can be updated by post. You write the new address in section three of the V5C and send the whole logbook to the DVLA at the address given on the logbook.

In the unlikely event you have one of the old-style logbooks from before 2012, you write the new address in section six, then sign and send the logbook to the address given in section eight.

In either case, updating the address on the V5C should be free of charge.

What should I do with a V5C when I buy or sell a car?

Whenever you buy a car, or sell one, the information on the V5C will need to be updated. Here’s what you need to do…

Using the V5C when buying a car

When buying a car, use the V5C to check that the person selling you the car is the registered keeper. Make sure the all the details, such as the registration number and colour, tally with the vehicle.

When you buy a car, it’s not your responsibility to make sure the V5C is updated – it’s down to the seller. For your own peace of mind, it’s good to know that the seller has done this correctly.

The seller should give you the green ‘new keeper’ slip from the logbook. They must tell the DVLA that they have sold the vehicle, giving the DVLA your name and address.

Using the V5C when selling a car

The boot is on the other foot if you are the seller. Complete the green ‘new keeper’ slip and give this to the buyer. Then use the government’s online service to give the DVLA all the relevant details of the new owner, including their full name and address.

Alternatively, you can send the V5C to the DVLA by post.

What do I do if I lose my V5C?

Don’t panic if you have misplaced your V5C. If you can’t find it, you can order a replacement.

The easiest way is online. You’ll need the registration number, the car’s VIN, and the name and postcode shown in the logbook. You should have your new V5C in the post within a few days.

If you’d rather apply by post you’ll need a V62 form and you may be waiting up to six weeks for the replacement.

The third option is to call the DVLA on 0300 790 6802.

However you tell the DVLA about your lost logbook, you’ll pay a £25 fee for the replacement.

V5C FAQs

Can you tax a car without a V5C logbook?

Yes, you can. So long as the DVLA has the correct address on file, they will send you a tax reminder letter (V11). This will include your car’s unique reference number, and with this you will be able to tax your car online or over the phone.

Can you find your V5C online?

The V5C is a paper document, so you won’t be able to find it online. However, you can apply online for a replacement if you have lost your V5C.

Can I sell a car without a V5C?

Yes, you can sell a car without a V5C. Carwow’s experts have written a guide explaining how it is done.

Looking for an easy way to change your car? Then Carwow is the place to go. You can sell your old car for a great price, and get the best deals on a new one. All through our network of trusted dealers and all from the comfort of your home. Tap the button below to get started today.