What Is a V5C Logbook? (UK Guide 2026)
Check vehicle details from your reg
Free, instant lookup. No signup needed.
The V5C is the official paper document the DVLA issues to the registered keeper of every UK vehicle. Most people call it the "logbook". It records who is responsible for the vehicle and lists its key details.
Quick answer: The V5C identifies the registered keeper - the person legally responsible for the vehicle (tax, MOT, fines). It is not proof of legal ownership. A financed car is legally owned by the finance company, even though the driver holds the V5C.
What the V5C contains
- Registration number, make, model, body type, colour
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) - a unique 17-character code
- Engine size, fuel type, CO2 output, tax class
- Date of first registration, number of previous keepers
- Current registered keeper's name and address
- Sections for notifying the DVLA when something changes
Two versions are valid
Both designs are legally valid:
- Old style (blue-green, pre-2012): 12 sections, new-keeper slip in Section 10
- New style (red-pink, 2012 onwards): 11 sections, new-keeper slip in Section 6
DVLA recommends updating to the newer style but it's not a legal requirement.
Key sections explained
| Section | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Section 1 | Vehicle details (make, model, VIN) |
| Section 2 | Registered keeper name and address |
| Section 3 | Where to record a change of address or name |
| Section 6 (new) / 10 (old) | The green "new keeper" slip you tear off when selling |
| Section 8/9 (new) / 9/10 (old) | Notifying DVLA of a sale or trader transfer |
When you must update the V5C
- You change address or name
- You sell, transfer, scrap or export the vehicle
- You make a significant modification (colour change, fuel conversion, change in number of seats)
- You import a vehicle into the UK
How to update your address
Fastest way: update online at gov.uk/vehicle-log-book. A new V5C arrives within five working days.
By post: write your new address in Section 3 (Section 6 on old-style), send the whole logbook to the DVLA address shown. Allow 4-6 weeks. Both methods are free.
How to update your name
Name changes can only be done by post. Complete the relevant section and include evidence of the change (marriage certificate, deed poll, etc.). Send the whole logbook to DVLA.
Selling your car: what to do with the V5C
Private sale:
- Complete the new-keeper section (Section 6 on new-style)
- Tear off the green slip and give it to the buyer
- Send the rest of the V5C to DVLA, or do it online
- DVLA confirms the transfer and refunds any unused tax
Selling to a motor trader: they complete Section 9 (new-style) and notify DVLA directly.
Buying a used car: what to check
- Registered keeper's name and address match the seller
- VIN on the V5C matches the VIN stamped on the vehicle (typically dashboard or door pillar)
- Number of previous keepers is reasonable for the car's age
- Document watermark: hold the V5C up to the light. You should see the DVL watermark
- The seller hands you the green new-keeper slip
An HPI check covers what the V5C cannot: outstanding finance, theft, write-off status and mileage discrepancies. See our used car buying checklist.
Lost your V5C?
Apply for a replacement using a V62 form. £25 fee. Options:
- Online at gov.uk/vehicle-log-book - fastest, replacement in 5 working days
- By post with a V62 form and cheque to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA - 4 to 6 weeks
- By phone on 0300 790 6802 - only if no personal details are changing
Common confusions
- V5C vs HPI: V5C confirms identity. HPI confirms finance, write-off and theft. Both needed for a safe used car purchase.
- V5C vs ownership receipt: keep your sales receipt as proof of legal ownership. The V5C alone is not enough.
- Old logbook still works: yes, blue-green V5Cs from 2004 onwards remain legally valid.
Keep your vehicle docs in one place
MotifyMe lets you store a digital copy of your V5C, insurance, service history and MOT alongside your reminders. Free trial, no card needed.