How to sell a car without a V5C logbook

How to sell a car without a V5C logbook (step-by-step)

• Make sure you have a bill of sale - If you don’t have the V5C logbook, you’ll need to provide all the following details so that the buyer can replace the logbook themselves:

  • Make and model.
  • Registration number.
  • VIN number.
  • The buyer’s full name.
  • The date of sale.
  • The buyer and seller’s signatures.
  • The agreed price and payment terms.
  • Written agreement that the vehicle has been ‘sold as seen’.

• List the vehicle for sale - Any listings should clearly state that you do not have the V5C logbook.

• Inform the DVLA - You need to inform the DVLA about the sale in writing. We’ll outline the process to follow below.

• Ensure a V62 is filled out - The buyer must fill out a V62 form to become the registered keeper of the vehicle.

• Confirm this change with the DVLA - Shortly after the sale has gone through, tie up all the loose ends by contacting the DVLA to confirm that you are no longer legally responsible for the vehicle.

Can I sell my car without a V5C?

Yes, you can sell your car without a V5C, although this can be more difficult. Many viewers and dealers won’t buy a car without a V5C logbook (or will reduce their offer if it is missing). If you sell your car without a V5C, you’ll still need to inform the DVLA in writing.

Can I inform the DVLA that I've sold my car without a V5?

Yes, you should inform the DVLA of the sale, even if you did not have a V5. To do this, write to DVLA, explaining that you have sold the vehicle and include details of the vehicle’s registration number, make and model, the date of the sale – and the new keeper’s name and address.

Send this letter to the following address: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1 DD.

Allow up to 4 weeks for your discharge of ownership and confirmation letters. If you have not received them after this time, you should contact the DVLA.

Do I need my V5C to scrap my car?

No, it is perfectly legal to scrap your car without a V5C. However, you must scrap it at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), pay by cheque or bank transfer (in England and Wales) - and then notify the DVLA that the vehicle has been scrapped.

V5Cs and logbook loans

A logbook loan is a credit agreement, which allows you to transfer ownership of your car as collateral for a loan. You can typically borrow up to 70% of your vehicle’s trade-in value from a logbook loan lender.

As part of the loan agreement, you will usually give the lender your V5C logbook, sign a credit agreement and a bill of sale. The lender should return the logbook (and ownership of the vehicle) once you have fully paid off the loan.

However, you cannot sell the vehicle until the outstanding debt has been paid off. If you wish to sell a car that is subject to a logbook loan to webuyanycar, you will need to ask the lender to release the V5C logbook. From here, we can help you settle any outstanding finance.

Replacing your V5C logbook

While it is possible to sell your car without a V5C logbook, this can make the process more difficult. Therefore, we would advise applying to the DVLA for a replacement logbook.

There are two ways to apply for a replacement V5C - and the correct method will depend on your circumstances:

If your details have not changed

If you don’t need to change any details, you can apply for a replacement V5C logbook online via the gov.uk website – or by telephone. You’ll need to supply the following details:

• The vehicle’s registration number.
• The VIN/chassis number.
• The name and postcode referenced on the missing V5C.

The fee for this service is £25 - and you can make payment by credit or debit card.

If your details have changed

If you need to update any details in your replacement logbook, you will need to submit a V62 form by post.

Firstly, download and complete a copy of form V62 from the DVLA website. There is a £25 fee for this service, which must be made payable to ‘DVLA, Swansea’. Send your completed form by post, together with a cheque or postal order to the following address:

DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1 DD.

Please note: You should contact the DVLA if you have not received your replacement logbook within four weeks. If you have not received your logbook after six weeks (and have not notified the DVLA), you will have to pay an additional £25 for a replacement.

Selling a car?

Most private dealers and car buying services will not buy cars without a V5C. Here at webuyanycar, we cannot purchase your car if you do not have a valid V5C logbook. However, if you do replace your missing logbook, we will be happy to purchase your car.

Want to know how much your car could be worth? Use our free car valuation tool to get a quote in 30 seconds or less!