What is the V5 Certificate or Car Logbook?

The "Logbook", AKA the V5 Certificate (V5C)

The documentation certifying ownership of a vehicle will be in the form of a V5 Certificate. This document is also commonly known as the "V5C" or "Logbook". The document currently has 2 versions in circulation. Which document your vehicle will have depends on when the last change of ownership was completed or the age of the vehicle. The V5 Certificate is the official ownership document issued by the DVLA.

V5 Certificate Samples

How to Apply

If you are the registered owner of a vehicle you may apply online for the car logbook / V5C. You should receive your logbook after 5 working days. The service usually costs £25 and you can pay by credit or debit card. To apply online click here.

Lost or Stolen V5C

If your logbook / V5C has been lost or stolen you can apply for a duplicate logbook online.

Change of Address on your car Logbook (V5C)

If you have changed your address you must update your vehicle log book (V5C). It is free to update the details on your logbook. You will need the registration number of your vehicle, the logbook reference number and a UK address. If you have all of this you can click here to apply.

If you cannot get a Logbook online

If your name or address have changed, the vehicle details have changed, you’ve bought / sold / transferred a vehicle or, if you did not get a logbook with your new vehicle then there are other ways to apply for a logbook.

Items to check on the V5 Certificate

If you are purchasing a used car you should check all of the physical attributes of the vehicle against those listed on the logbook. You should also check the VIN on the logbook against the physical VIN to ensure they match and also enter the VIN displayed onto your MotorCheck report to ensure it matches the VIN on file with the DVLA

What are the uses of the V5 Certificate

Here are the primary uses and pieces of information that can be found on a V5C certificate:

1. Proof of Registered Keeper: The V5C confirms the details of the vehicle's current registered keeper.
2. Vehicle Details: The certificate includes information like the vehicle's registration mark, make, model, body type, and colour.
3. Vehicle's Emission Details: It shows the CO2 emissions of the vehicle, which can be useful for tax purposes.
4. Proof for Selling/Buying: If you're selling or buying a used vehicle, the V5C is used to notify the DVLA of the change in registered keepership.
5. Applying for a Road Tax: You'll need your V5C when applying to pay for road tax, either online or in person.
6. Making Modifications: If you make changes to your vehicle, you must update the DVLA, and for this, you might need the V5C. Changes can include engine modifications, colour change, etc.
7. Insurance Purposes: Some insurance companies may ask to see your V5C as part of their verification process.
8. Exporting the Vehicle: If you're exporting your vehicle outside the UK, the V5C document would be required.
9. Vehicle Scrappage: If you're scrapping your vehicle, the Authorized Treatment Facility will need certain details from the V5C.

For further information on the V5C document and how they relate to your car please click here.