Selling a Car Without a V5C Logbook

By being transparent and following these simple steps, you can navigate the sale of your vehicle with confidence, even without the original logbook.

A Practical Guide for UK Sellers

The V5C registration certificate, commonly known as the logbook, is one of the most important documents when it comes to selling a vehicle in the UK. It serves as the official record of the registered keeper and is essential for transferring ownership and taxing the vehicle.

However, life happens logbooks get lost, damaged, or misplaced during a move. If you find yourself needing to sell your car but cannot find your V5C, you may be wondering if it is even possible.

The short answer is yes, you can legally sell a car without a V5C logbook in the UK.

While it requires a few extra steps and a bit more transparency with your buyer, the process is straightforward if you follow the official DVLA guidelines. This guide outlines everything you need to know to complete a successful and legal sale without your logbook.

The Legal Requirements: Notifying the DVLA

When you sell a car with a logbook, you simply fill out the relevant sections and send them to the DVLA or complete the transfer online. Without the V5C, you cannot use the online service. Instead, you must notify the DVLA in writing to confirm that you are no longer the registered keeper.

Failure to notify the DVLA is a serious oversight. Until they receive official word of the sale, you remain legally responsible for the vehicle. This means you could be held liable for any future speeding fines, parking tickets, or even the vehicle’s tax.

Furthermore, you will not receive a refund for any full months of remaining vehicle tax until the DVLA is notified.

Your letter to the DVLA must be sent to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA and should include the following details:

•Your full name and address

•The vehicle’s registration number

•The make and model of the car

•The exact date of the sale

•The full name and address of the new keeper or motor trader

The Buyer’s Perspective: Form V62

For a buyer, purchasing a car without a V5C can be a red flag. It may suggest the vehicle is stolen, has outstanding finance, or is being sold by someone who isn't the rightful owner. To put your buyer at ease, it is helpful to explain the situation clearly and provide alternative proof of ownership, such as service history or original purchase receipts.

The buyer will need to apply for a new logbook themselves using Form V62 (Application for a Vehicle Registration Certificate).

They can obtain this form online or from most Post Offices. There is typically a £25 fee for a replacement V5C, and it is common practice for the seller to reduce the sale price by this amount to cover the buyer’s cost.

Summary of Responsibilities

Best Practices for a Smooth Sale

To ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible, consider providing a full bill of sale (a receipt) to the buyer.

This should include the date, the sale price, the vehicle details, and the signatures of both the buyer and the seller. This document serves as a vital record for both parties until the new logbook arrives.

If you aren't in a rush to sell, the easiest path is often to apply for a replacement V5C yourself before listing the car. If your details haven't changed, you can apply online for a replacement, which usually costs £25 and arrives within five working days.

Having the logbook in hand will almost always make your car easier to sell and help you achieve a better price.