Do I need to fill any documents in when scrapping?
As the current registered keeper or owner of the vehicle, it’s your legal responsibility to inform the DVLA that the car is being transferred to a trader or dismantler. The quickest and simplest way to do this is using section 9 of the V5C log book document (or section 4 on V5Cs issued after April 2019).
On this tear-out section of the log book, you’ll need to complete the date of the sale along with the name and address of the dismantler who collects your car. Don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure of these details – the collection driver will be happy to help.
When complete, you’ll need to detach the slip from the rest of the V5C – and post it to the DVLA address you’ll find on the rear. The person recovering your car will take the remainder of the form with them.
What happens if I can’t find the V5C form?
Strictly speaking, you don’t have to use the V5C document to inform the DVLA that you’re selling the car – you can write a letter or, if you happen to have the 11-digit reference number from your V5C, complete the form online instead.
Sending a letter confirming the sale of your car
If you decide to send a letter, you’ll need to make sure that you include all the details the DVLA will need to know, including:
• Your name and address details
• The vehicle’s registration number
• The date of the sale
• The name, address, and VAT number of the scrap yard buying your car
Since you’ll probably need some details from the trader who is buying your car, it’s sometimes worth completing this letter in advance – before adding the scrap yard details at the point of collection.
When complete, you should send your letter to:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BD
Confirming the sale of your vehicle online
If you have the 11 digit reference number from your lost V5C document, you’ll be able to tell the DVLA that you’re scrapping your car using their online service. You cannot use this service if you’ve already returned your V5C by post – and you should note that it’s only available from 7am to 7pm.
What happens if you don’t complete the necessary documents when you scrap your car?
As a driver or vehicle owner, you have a legal responsibility to inform the DVLA of any changes to your car’s ownership. If you don’t, you could be subject to a fine of up to £1,000.
As well as a penalty for not helping the DVLA keep their records up to date, you may also find yourself running into issues relating to taxing and insuring the car – even if it’s been scrapped. Many of the DVLA’s systems run automatically, so, if you haven’t informed the DVLA that your car has been sold to a dismantler, further automatic fines can be issued if the system picks up on lapsed tax or insurance. While this is unlikely, it’s not impossible – so it’s far better to be safe than sorry.
If you have any doubt about the paperwork that needs to be completed, your recovery driver will be happy to assist.
