Notify DVLA of a Scrap Car: Step By Step Guide

Notifying the DVLA of a scrapped car is a pretty straightforward process.

The paperwork is generally handled if you scrap your car with a licensed ATF (Authorised Treatment Facility).

But it’s essential not to overlook it!

This guide will explain how to notify the DVLA online, what you need, and what other document informs you of your car being scrapped.

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Scrapping a car with the DVLA

So, once you’ve booked your collection and had your vehicle scrapped, you are legally required to inform the DVLA about your scrap car.

You must notify the DVLA that you’ve sold your car as soon as it’s been collected and crushed.

Scrapping a car with the DVLA will require you to provide the following, so you must have it on hand.

Logbook
Address of A.T.F where your vehicle was crushed (This can also be the details of the scrap car dealer or motor trader )

These are the main requirements when scrapping a car with the DVLA! So make, so you inform the DVLA correctly.

How do I notify the DVLA when scrapping my car?

Notify the DVLA of a scrapped car online.

When informing the DVLA of your car being scrapped, you must provide your 11-digit reference number and the address of the A.T.F.

You can notify the DVLA below.

Inform DVLA of a scrapped car via post.

Alternatively, you can notify the DVLA via post. This can take a little longer, although it follows a similar process.

Note the name and address of where the vehicle was sent to (if a scrapyard) or sold to (if a scrap car dealer or motor trader)
Ask them to complete Section 4 (for logbooks issued after April 2019) or section 9 of your logbook, labelled ‘’sell, transfer or part-exchange your vehicle to the motor trade’. This is a yellow slip.

The DVLA address for scrapping a car is as follows:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BD

If you inform the DVLA of a scrapped car via post, you can expect to receive a response within 4-6 weeks.

This may affect your ability to cancel any road tax or insurance, so if you can notify the DVLA online – Do it!

Notify DVLA of a scrap car without v5 logbook

Lost your logbook? No problem!

Even if you’ve lost the logbook, you can still notify the DVLA of a scrapped car.

If you misplaced your logbook, inform the DVLA by following this process.

Include your details, such as your name and address- Bear in mind this will usually be the registered keeper’s name and address.
Include your vehicle registration.
The make and model of your vehicle
The date you sold your scrap car
Address and trading name of the scrapyard or dealer you sold your vehicle to.

You can then send that letter to DVLA, so they know about your scrapped car.

Please provide the following when scrapping your vehicle, as the DVLA may reject your notice.

If you have any road tax owed, this will also be impacted.

Notify the DVLA: Other Options

A few other options exist when notifying the DVLA about a scrap car.

Notify the DVLA of a scrapped car, but keep your private plate.

If you have scrapped your vehicle and need to inform the DVLA but have a private plate, you must do the following first.

Applying to take off your number plate

A personalised plate can be removed and assigned to another vehicle when required.

You must apply for a V778 retention document and a new logbook.
You must have your V778 document and logbook before scrapping your car.

This is key! As you could potentially lose your pride and joy.

Once you have placed your plate on retention, you can inform the DVLA of your scrapped car.

Notify the DVLA when scrapping a foreign car

If you have scrapped a foreign car and think you must notify the DVLA, that is not the case!

For foreign vehicles, you must inform the Driving and vehicle standards agency where the vehicle originated.
From here, you will need to provide some confirmation that your vehicle was crushed.
This can be a certificate of destruction informing the DVLA that you scrapped your car at an authorised treatment facility.
Once scrapped, this will be provided but can take up to 7 working days.

Learn more about scrapping a foreign car in the UK with our complete guide.

Things to watch out for when notifying the DVLA

You should know how to inform the DVLA of a scrap car.

The process can be simple and quickly followed, and with the right service provider, you can remove the worry of having to chase up collection drivers.

Also, chasing paperwork and documents and being shocked with potential fines for failing to notify the DVLA (online or by post) differs from what everyone wants.

When choosing the right provider to scrap your car, you must consider the aftercare received, as it is down to you to follow up and notify the DVLA of your scrapped car.

Have Your Old Car Removed Today

At Scrap Local, we have helped thousands of motorists recycle their old vehicles, providing an end-to-end scrap car recycling service you can trust.

Our licensed, trusted agents provide more than a guaranteed price and free collection. They offer fast paperwork and payment options so you can be one step closer to notifying the DVLA and saying bye-bye to your old set of wheels.

Sounds good? If you have a vehicle for scrap or salvage that needs to go fast, get in touch today to see how we can help!

FAQs: How to Notify the DVLA When Scrapping a Car

Notifying the DVLA when scrapping your car is a key part of the process to avoid fines and ensure everything is handled correctly. Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about this topic.

How do I notify the DVLA when my car is scrapped?

You can notify the DVLA online using your vehicle logbook and the address of the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) where the car was scrapped. Alternatively, you can send a written notice by post.
Can I notify the DVLA without a logbook?

Yes, if you’ve lost your V5C logbook, you can still notify the DVLA by sending a letter with your name, address, vehicle registration, make and model, scrap date, and the details of the scrapyard or dealer.
How long does it take to process a DVLA notification?

Notifying the DVLA online is instant. If you send a notification by post, it can take 4-6 weeks to process, so online notification is recommended for faster results.
Do I need to notify the DVLA if I want to keep my private number plate?

Yes, you must remove your private number plate before scrapping your car. Apply for a V778 retention document and ensure your plate is on retention before notifying the DVLA.
What happens if I fail to notify the DVLA after scrapping my car?

Failing to notify the DVLA can result in fines, as you are legally responsible for informing them about the disposal of your vehicle. Ensure you complete this step promptly.