How To Scrap Car Without Logbook: Complete Guide

So! It looks like you’ve lost your logbook!

Or temporarily misplaced.

Scrapping a car with no logbook is possible.

To scrap a car with no logbook,  you must inform the DVLA online once your vehicle has been scrapped,  or request a new logbook.

Keep reading to find out more!

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What Is A V5C Logbook, And Why Do I Need It?

A V5C logbook is a document issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (or DVLA to you and me).

A logbook records the registered keeper of a vehicle and state information regarding a vehicle, including its emission class, tax band category and registered address (this may be for the business or person who has taxed the car, not necessarily the owner).

In most instances, those who own the vehicle are typically the registered keeper on the V5C logbook.

A V5C logbook is one of the most important pieces of document a motorist can hold, so it’s essential to have one to hand and to be kept safe.

Using your logbook to sell a car for scrap or salvage

Do you need a logbook to scrap a car? Most likely not!

You may have the V5C logbook ready when selling a car for scrap.

Once your vehicle has been collected, you must note the name, address and V.A.T. number of the motor trader (or recycler) who now owns the car before scrapping.

The DVLA requires this to be completed and for them to be informed for their records. Failure to do so can lead to a £1000 fine. Hence, these must be avoided when scrapping a car or with no logbook.

Also, remember that if your vehicle is sold for salvage, you must inform the DVLA of the new owner.

Selling a car with no logbook to a scrapyard

When selling a vehicle to a trusted scrapyard, you may think you must provide the V5C logbook. This is for mainly two reasons.

  1. States you are the legal owner of the vehicle
  2. Reduce crime and theft.
  3. Log the details of the new owner.

However, under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all car dealers must require valid photo I.D.s and proof of address from sellers.

This means that you can legally scrap a car with no logbook. However, most people (for peace of mind) provide the V5C logbook as they can request the details of the A.T.F. of where the vehicle was sent.

Scrap A SORN car with no logbook.

Lastly, it’s essential to mention that if your vehicle is SORN (off the road), you do not need a logbook to sell your scrap car.

To scrap a car that is not SORN, having the last V5C logbook to hand is beneficial as it proves your ownership.

You can request a copy from the DVLA if you do not have a V5C logbook.

How To Inform DVLA When Scrapping A Car

So, once your vehicle has been collected and taken to an authorised treatment facility for scrappage.

Informing the DVLA once your car has been scrapped can be completed in two ways. Either online or by post.

If you have any remaining road tax or insurance, you must inform the DVLA of your vehicle being scrapped.

By telling the DVLA, you will not be charged any remaining road tax left on your vehicle, although this is the case if you pay your road tax monthly via direct debit.

  • Inform DVLA By Post

    Complete either section 9 or section 7 of your logbook using the 11-digit reference number on the front of your logbook.

    Send your V5C logbook over to the DVLA’s head office:

    Long View Rd
    Morriston
    Swansea
    SA6 7JL
  • Inform DVLA Online

    Notify the DVLA online by following the steps above.

    This is a more favourable option as it doesn’t take as long.

    You will still need to provide the 11-digit reference number in your logbook.

How To Order a New Logbook

If you’ve lost your logbook and feel it’s worth finding a replacement, you can order one through the DVLA.

There are two primary forms of logbook you can request.

The first is your typical V5C logbook. This was previously a blue colour, so it will be under the red versions when a new one is requested.

The other version of the logbook you can request is a temporary logbook.

What do I need to order a new logbook?

You will need to provide the following when requesting a new logbook.

  1. The vehicle REG
  2. The VIN/Chassis number of your vehicle
  3. The name and address of the keeper of the register on the logbook.

The cost of replacing a V5C logbook is £25.

By applying online, you can expect to receive your V5C logbook within four working days.

If you choose the traditional paper approach, processing and replacing your logbook can take up to 4-6 weeks!

Change Details On A V5C logbook

Need to update and change some details, such as the address, on your V5C logbook?

You can request to change the address on your V5C logbook.

To do this, you must provide your vehicle registration number and the 11-digit reference number from your previous logbook.

Any other changes, like the colour of your vehicle, its chassis, the number of seats, and any modifications, must also be updated on the DVLA’s Records.

You can change your address and other details of your logbook below.

Scrap Your Car Without A Logbook Today!

By now, we hope you know how to sell a car with no logbook for scrap!

There are a few factors to remember, but thankfully if you’re in good hands, like the many scrap yards on our network, you’ve nothing to worry about.

Our licensed, trusted vehicle buyers buy scrap and salvage vehicles with complete peace of mind. When you receive your quote for your car on the back of the truck, our agents will handle the paperwork, such as filling in your V5C logbook.

We can also provide additional documentation, such as a certificate of destruction if required.

With such peace of mind, it’s no wonder thousands of motorists choose to scrap locally when selling their old cars for scrap or salvage.

Scrap your car with no logbook with our award-winning service today!

Question On Scrapping A Car With No Logbook?

We hope not!

You can find a full section of paperwork and documentation-related FAQs on our main FAQ category page.

  • What is a V5C logbook, and why is it important?

    A V5C logbook, issued by the DVLA, records the registered keeper of a vehicle and contains essential details like emission class, tax band category, and registered address.

    It’s an important document for ownership and compliance purposes.

  • Can I scrap my car without a logbook?

    Yes, you can scrap a car without a logbook.

    While a logbook verifies ownership, under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, car dealers must require valid photo ID and proof of address from sellers, allowing you to legally scrap a car without a logbook.

  • How do I inform the DVLA when scrapping my car?

    Once your car is scrapped, inform the DVLA either online or by post. Complete section 9 or section 7 of the logbook and use the 11-digit reference number.

    Notify the DVLA to avoid charges on any remaining road tax.

  • What if my car is SORN? Do I still need a logbook to scrap it?

    If your vehicle is SORN (off the road), you do not need a logbook to scrap it.

    However, having the last V5C logbook is beneficial as it proves your ownership.

  • How do I order a new V5C logbook if I’ve lost mine?

    You can order a new V5C logbook through the DVLA, providing your vehicle’s registration number, VIN/Chassis number, and the keeper’s name and address.

    The replacement cost is £25, and delivery times vary depending on whether you apply online or via traditional post.

  • Can I update details like my address on a V5C logbook?

    Yes, you can update details such as your address on your V5C logbook.

    Provide your vehicle registration number and the 11-digit reference number from your previous logbook to make the change.

  • What is the cost and time frame to receive a new logbook?

    The cost to replace a V5C logbook is £25. If you apply online, you can expect to receive it within four working days, while the traditional paper

  • What information do I need to scrap my car without a logbook?

    When scrapping a car without a logbook, you’ll need to provide valid photo ID and proof of address.

    This is to comply with the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 and establish your legal right to scrap the vehicle.

  • What happens if I don’t inform the DVLA after scrapping my car?

    Failing to inform the DVLA after scrapping your car can result in being charged for remaining road tax and potentially facing a fine. It’s crucial to notify the DVLA to avoid these consequences.

  • Is additional documentation required when scrapping a car without a logbook?

    While not always necessary, some scrap yards may provide additional documentation like a certificate of destruction for your records.

    This can offer peace of mind and proof that the car has been scrapped legally.

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