DVLA & Documentation FAQs
Scrapping your car in the UK involves a few essential steps to stay compliant with DVLA regulations.
From understanding your V5C logbook to obtaining a Certificate of Destruction, these FAQs explain everything you need to know about the legal paperwork required to scrap your vehicle safely and responsibly.
What Documents Do You Need To Scrap Your Car?
Before scrapping your car, it’s important that you have the right documents ready.
This ensures your vehicle can be collected legally, processed at a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), and removed from the DVLA’s register correctly.
To scrap a car legally, you’ll need:
Valid photo ID: A driving licence or passport is required to verify your identity.
V5C logbook: This document shows you as the registered keeper. Having it makes the process simpler, but it’s not essential.
Keys: Especially important if you don’t have your logbook, as they help confirm you own the vehicle.
Scrap Local arranges free collection and ensures your vehicle is taken to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
However, it’s your responsibility as the registered keeper to notify the DVLA once your car has been scrapped.
Can I scrap my car without the V5C logbook?
Yes, you can. As long as you have a valid photo ID and the keys, Scrap Local will still collect and process your car legally.
Without the V5C, you’ll need to contact the DVLA to let them know your car has been scrapped.
You can do this online or by post.
For more information:
Do I need to remove personal belongings before scrapping my car?
Yes. Before your car is collected, please remove any personal items, paperwork, or valuables.
Once your vehicle is taken to an ATF, it can be hard work getting these items back, so it’s important to double-check.
Do I need a Waste Carriers License Certificate to scrap my car?
No, you don’t. The Waste Carriers Licence is only required for businesses transporting waste vehicles.
Scrap Local’s network of drivers already has the correct licences to transport and dispose of vehicles legally.
Do I need to be the registered keeper to scrap a car?
No, but you must be able to prove your right to scrap it.
We’ll ask for photo ID, the keys, and, ideally, the V5C logbook to verify ownership.
This protects both you and the recycling facility from potential legal issues.
Understanding the V5C logbook
The V5C logbook, also known as a vehicle registration certificate, records the details of the registered keeper and is used to notify the DVLA of any changes.
It plays an important role in confirming ownership and updating DVLA records when a vehicle is sold, transferred, or scrapped.
What is a V5C logbook?
The V5C logbook, also known as the vehicle registration certificate, is an official document issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).
It identifies the registered keeper of a vehicle: The person responsible for taxing, insuring, and declaring it off the road (SORN), not necessarily the legal owner.
The V5C includes key information such as:
- The vehicle’s registration number, make, model, and colour
- The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number
- The engine size and fuel type
- The registered keeper’s name and address
- The vehicle’s previous keepers and date of first registration
You’ll need the V5C for most official processes, such as selling, scrapping, or transferring ownership of your vehicle.
When scrapping your car through Scrap Local, you’ll use section 9 (or section 4 on newer V5Cs) to notify the DVLA that the vehicle has been sold for scrap.
Keeping your V5C safe and up to date ensures that you remain compliant with UK vehicle registration laws and avoid fines for failing to declare changes in ownership.
How do I fill out my logbook when scrapping my car?
If you still have your logbook, fill out Section 9 (or Section 4 on newer versions) to notify the DVLA that your car has been scrapped.
Include the details of the ATF or collector, then post it to:
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD.
Scrap Local can guide you through this process to make sure your details are recorded correctly.
How do I change ownership or address with the DVLA?
Notifying the dVLA
When you scrap a car, you MUST inform the DVLA to ensure you’re no longer legally responsible for it.
Failing to do so could lead to fines up to £1000!
To avoid this, read our DVLA FAQs below.
How do I notify the DVLA when scrapping my car?
You can notify the DVLA in several ways:
Online: The fastest method. Visit GOV.UK and use your V5C reference number.
By post: Complete the yellow V5C/3 slip (or Section 9 on older forms) and send it to the DVLA.
Without a V5C: Write to the DVLA with your name, address, registration number, and vehicle details confirming it’s been scrapped.
Once processed, the DVLA will confirm that you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle.
How can I find out if my car has been scrapped?
You can check using the DVLA vehicle status tool.
If it shows the car as “scrapped” or “no longer on the road,” the record has been updated.
You can also contact the ATF that handled your vehicle for confirmation.
What do I need to scrap a car registered outside of the UK?
If your car is registered outside the UK, you’ll need the original registration papers and proof of ownership before it can be scrapped.
Please call Scrap Local on 01706 577 574 so our team can guide you through the process.
Certificates & Proof
When your car is scrapped, certain certificates and proof documents confirm that it’s been processed legally and in line with DVLA regulations.
This section explains what each certificate means and when you might need one.
What is a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)?
A Certificate of Destruction is an official DVLA document issued by an Authorised Treatment Facility once your car has been permanently destroyed.
It confirms that the vehicle is no longer on the road and that you’re no longer responsible for it.
Do I need a Certificate of Destruction?
Not every vehicle requires a Certificate of Destruction. They are only required when a vehicle absolutely has to be fully scrapped.
A CoD is only issued once a car is permanently destroyed at an ATF.
You may need one for insurance claims, insurance write-offs or scrappage scheme applications.
If your car is resold or dismantled for parts as salvage, a CoD will not be issued.
How do I get a Certificate of Destruction?
If your vehicle is due to be destroyed, let us know when booking your collection.
Once it’s processed, the ATF will issue the CoD and update the DVLA.
You’ll usually receive your certificate within 7–10 working days.
What is an ATF?
An Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) is a government-licensed scrap yard permitted to handle end-of-life vehicles (ELVs).
These facilities must meet strict environmental standards and are the only sites legally authorised to depollute and dismantle scrap cars.
Choosing an ATF is crucial because it guarantees your car is scrapped safely, legally, and in compliance with the End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) Regulations 2003.
Only ATFs can issue a Certificate of Destruction, proving you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle.
Unlike unlicensed buyers or illegal car breakers, ATFs operate under environmental permits, follow waste management laws, and are inspected by the Environment Agency.
They’re required to recycle or reuse at least 95% of a vehicle’s materials and dispose of harmful fluids and components responsibly.
It’s also illegal to accept cash payments for scrap cars under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.
Licensed ATFs and collectors like those in Scrap Local’s network only pay through secure, traceable bank transfers, protecting both you and the business from fraud and theft.
By scrapping your vehicle with an ATF through Scrap Local, you ensure your car is recycled responsibly, DVLA paperwork is handled correctly, and every step complies with UK law.
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SORN & Tax
Declaring your vehicle off-road (SORN) and handling your tax correctly ensures you remain compliant with DVLA requirements when scrapping a car.
What is a SORN?
A SORN, or Statutory Off Road Notification, is a legal declaration that tells the DVLA your car isn’t being driven or kept on public roads.
You don’t need to pay tax or insurance during this time, but the vehicle must stay off-road.
How do I declare my car SORN?
You can SORN your vehicle:
- Online: Visit GOV.UK SORN service using your V5C or V11 reminder.
- By phone: Call 0300 123 4321 with your vehicle and reference details.
- By post: Complete Section 9 (or Section 4 on newer forms) of your logbook and send it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR.
Confirmation is usually instant online or by phone and takes a few days by post.
How long does a SORN last?
A SORN has no expiry date. It stays active until you tax the vehicle again, sell it, scrap it, or export it.
Once Scrap Local notifies the DVLA that your car’s been scrapped, your SORN automatically ends.
Do I need to SORN my car before scrapping it?
No, not if your car is being collected straight away.
If it’s going to be off-road for a while before collection, making a SORN prevents you from paying unnecessary road tax.
How do I unsorn my car?
To unsorn your car, simply tax it again through the DVLA.
The moment your tax payment is processed, the SORN ends automatically.
Should I cancel my road tax after scrapping?
You don’t need to cancel your road tax yourself.
Once the DVLA confirms your vehicle has been scrapped, they’ll automatically cancel your tax and refund any remaining full months.
If you pay by Direct Debit, check your bank to make sure payments have stopped.
Finance & Legal
Before scrapping a vehicle, it’s important to understand the legal and financial rules that apply.
Here, we explain how outstanding finance, ownership rights, and legal compliance affect whether your car can be scrapped.
Can I scrap a car with outstanding finance?
You can’t scrap a vehicle with active finance, as it legally belongs to the lender until the balance is settled.
Scrapping it without consent could be considered fraud.
To resolve this, you can:
- Request a settlement figure from your finance provider.
- Explore voluntary termination options if applicable.
- Obtain written consent from your lender before scrapping.
How do I check if there’s outstanding finance on my car?
You can confirm this by using a vehicle check service like HPI Check, Experian, or Total Car Check.
These services reveal any active finance agreements.
For complete accuracy, contact your lender directly for confirmation.
What Scrap Local Provides
When you scrap your car with Scrap Local, you’re in safe hands.
We ensure every vehicle is processed legally and responsibly by licensed professionals.
With Scrap Local, you’ll receive:
- Free nationwide collection with no hidden fees.
- Guaranteed price for vehicles matching their described condition.
- Assistance with DVLA paperwork and Certificates of Destruction.
- Licensed ATFs that recycle up to 95% of each vehicle.
- Secure, GDPR-compliant bank transfers for all payments.
Customer Service
If there’s something you’d like more information on or you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, get in touch through our social channels.
Our team will be happy to provide the clarity you need so you can move forward with confidence.
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