Certificate of Destruction: Explained

Ever wondered what a certificate of destruction is?

How do you apply for one? Is it needed?

We dive into what makes a C.O.D, why it’s needed and how to receive one when scrapping a vehicle.

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What Is A Certificate of Destruction

Often called a C.O.DA certificate of destruction is a document which is issued by the DVLA, otherwise known as the Driving and vehicle licensing agency.

These are often requested from an Authorised Treatment Facility, upon your vehicle being collected and ready to be crushed.

Certificates of destruction can only be issued by recyclers that are licensed to handle the depollution of vehicles or dismantle vehicles for salvage.

This is part of the end-of-life regulation act, which was launched in 2007.

As a free service, certificates of destruction are issued and requested due to the transparency it provides once your vehicle has been marked and collected for recycling.

Why Is A Certificate of Destruction Needed?

Touched upon above, a certificate of destruction is usually issued once a vehicle has been scheduled for recycling.

A certificate of destruction can be used for motorists when they want to cancel certain insurance or road tax bills, as it serves as evidence that the vehicle was recycled at a particular date, by a particular business.
Moreover, a certificate of destruction can be used to inform the DVLA that the vehicle has been scrapped, and destroyed.
Due to this, some motorists need to request a C.O.D, and keep it as a record if they are scrapping a vehicle.

It is important to note, however, that if you are salvaging a vehicle, you will not require a C.O.D, and instead should ensure that your logbook has been filled out by the salvage buyer in question.

You will also be required to notify the DVLA once the vehicle has been scrapped, referencing your logbook details.

What Does A Certificate of Destruction Look Like?

There is nothing too special about a certificate of destruction.

Although, its key characteristics include the:

The DVLA logo
Clear heading titled certificate of destruction
The certificate number – Which is a 12-digit number
The date of issue
A signature of the A.T.F facility where the vehicle was crushed. This typically will contain the address and VAT Number of the organisation

You will also find a Holder/Owner Section which you should sign and keep for your records.

How Do I Receive A Certificate Of Destruction with the DVLA?

To receive a certificate of destruction, be sure to ask the recycler at hand for a copy.

It’s important to note that a certificate of destruction can take anywhere from 3-7 working days, due to the fact it takes time to process from the Authorised treatment facility.

They are also sent to you via email so a valid email address is required.

Need to Scrap a Car with a C.O.D?

We understand how A certificate of destruction may be required when selling your old cost.

Scrap Local works with thousands of motorists and approved recyclers who provide certificates of destruction.

If your vehicle is a Junk car or you live in a clean air zone or ULEZ scrappage scheme and require proof of grant funding, we can help!

Get in touch with Scrap Local today and see how easy we can make car recycling for you!