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Vehicle log book (V5C) and registering a vehicle

The V5C log book shows who the registered keeper of a vehicle is. Get it updated when you buy or sell, and replace it if it is lost or damaged.

Applies to: Whole UK

Official links

Official source	Applies to
GOV.UK: get a vehicle log book (V5C) www.gov.uk/vehicle-log-book	Whole UK
GOV.UK: vehicle registration www.gov.uk/vehicle-registration	Whole UK
GOV.UK: tell DVLA you sold or bought a vehicle www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle	Whole UK

Holds driver and vehicle records in Great Britain: driving licences, vehicle tax, SORN and the V5C log book.

Buying a used vehicle: the seller usually registers it to you online or by post and gives you the green 'new keeper' slip. Avoid buying a vehicle without a V5C.
Tax the vehicle (or make a SORN) before you use it. Vehicle tax does not transfer with the car.
Selling: tell DVLA online that you sold or transferred the vehicle. Any full months of tax left are refunded.
Lost, stolen or damaged V5C: if the details stay the same, the registered keeper can apply for a replacement online or by phone. Changes to vehicle details go by post.
When the new V5C arrives, check every detail. If something is wrong, correct it on the V5C and send it back to DVLA.

Driving a newly bought car before taxing it, thinking the seller's tax still covers it.
Not telling DVLA when you sell, so fines and tax letters keep coming to you.
Waiting too long to report a V5C that never arrived. Contact DVLA if it has not arrived within the time GOV.UK gives, or you may have to pay for a replacement.