V5 document refers to the UK vehicle registration certificate, officially called the V5C logbook. Issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), it records important information about a vehicle and its registered keeper. Understanding the V5C is essential when buying, selling, or owning a car in the UK, as it helps confirm registration, prevent fraud, and ensure all changes are properly recorded with the DVLA.
What is the V5 Document?
The V5 document, formally known as the V5C logbook is not proof of ownership but identifies the registered keeper, who is responsible for taxing and registering the vehicle. In some cases, such as cars on finance, the legal owner may be different from the registered keeper. The V5C ensures that the DVLA knows who is responsible for the car at all times.
Run a Total Car Check to get the full keeper history of any UK registered vehicle.
Why the V5 Document is Important
The V5C logbook is essential for several reasons:
- Proves the car is registered with the DVLA
- Required when buying or selling a vehicle
- Needed to record changes like colour, engine size, or address updates
- Helps prevent fraud by verifying vehicle details such as VIN, registration number, make, and model
Without a valid V5C, selling a car becomes difficult, and buying one carries significant risks.
What the V5 Document (V5C) Looks Like
The V5C is a red, blue, and pink document divided into sections for different purposes, including ownership transfers, changes to keeper details, and vehicle modifications.
V5C Logbook Sections Explained
Vehicle Details
Contains registration number, VIN, make, model, body type, fuel type, engine size, colour, and first registration date. Always check these details against the car before purchasing.
Section 1 – Change My Vehicle Details
Provides the vehicle’s registration number and a document reference number. This section is for notifying the DVLA of any material changes to the vehicle’s wheelplan, VIN or chassis, weight, cylinder capacity, seats, colour, fuel type and tax class.
Section 2 – Selling or Transferring to a New Keeper
Used when selling privately. Fill in the buyer’s details and send it to the DVLA. The new keeper will receive a V5C in their name.
Section 3 – Change My Name and / or address
Shows the current keeper’s name and address and allows them to update their name and address details.
Section 4 – Selling, Transferring or Part Exchanging to a motor trader
Used when selling to a dealership, scrapping, or if the car has been written off.
Section 5 – Permanently exporting
For informing the DVLA that the vehicle is being taken out of the country for more than 12 months or sold to a foreign buyer.
Section 6 – New keeper slip
Provided to the new keeper upon selling the vehicle.
V5 Document Sections at a Glance
| Section | Purpose | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – Change My Vehicle Details | Notify the DVLA of changes to the vehicle itself. | Shows the registration number and document reference number. Used to report changes to wheelplan, VIN/chassis, weight, cylinder capacity, seats, colour, fuel type, or tax class. |
| 2 – Selling or Transferring to a New Keeper | Used when selling privately. | Fill in buyer’s details and send to DVLA. The new keeper gets a V5C in their name. |
| 3 – Change My Name and/or Address | Allows updates for the current keeper. | Current keeper’s name and address, with option to update details. |
| 4 – Selling, Transferring or Part Exchanging to a Motor Trader | For sales to dealers, scrapping, or insurance write-offs. | Notifies DVLA when ownership is passed to a trader or if the car is written off. |
| 5 – Permanently Exporting | For vehicles leaving the UK for 12+ months. | Used if selling abroad or exporting the car permanently. |
| 6 – New Keeper Slip | Proof of purchase for the buyer. | Given to the new keeper when the vehicle is sold. |
FAQs About the V5 Document (V5C)
Is the V5 document proof of ownership?
No. The V5C logbook shows the registered keeper but does not prove legal ownership.
Can I sell a car without a V5C?
It is possible but makes the sale harder and riskier. Most buyers avoid cars without a V5C.
How do I get a replacement V5C logbook?
You can request one from the DVLA online or by phone. A fee may apply.
What’s the difference between a V5 and V5C?
V5 is the general name; V5C is the official title of the document.
Final Thoughts
The V5 document or V5C logbook is essential for every car owner in the UK. It ensures the vehicle is properly registered, tracks the registered keeper, and records any changes with the DVLA. Always check the V5C carefully when buying a used car to confirm that all details match the vehicle and the seller’s information.
Related Blogs:
- Cancel Road Tax: A Complete Guide for UK Car Keepers
- Car Tax Changes in the UK: What Drivers Face Now and What Could Come Next
