April 12, 2026 in United Kingdom — Every vehicle on UK roads must be registered with the DVLA and display a valid registration number. The V5C registration certificate — commonly called the log book — is the most important vehicle document a keeper holds. It proves who owns or is responsible for the vehicle, and without it, you cannot tax, sell, or transfer ownership of a car. This guide covers everything about DVLA vehicle registration in 2026: how to register, how to transfer, what the V5C sections mean, and what to do if your log book is lost or delayed.
What Is the V5C Registration Certificate?
The V5C is the Vehicle Registration Certificate, also known as the log book. It contains the vehicle's registered details including:
- Vehicle registration number (number plate)
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Make, model, colour, and body type
- Engine size and fuel type
- CO2 emissions figure
- Date of first registration
- Registered keeper's name and address
- Vehicle's current tax status
There is only one V5C for each vehicle. It cannot be photocopied and used as a valid document. If your V5C is lost, you must apply for a replacement from the DVLA.
Registering a Vehicle for the First Time in the UK
If you're registering a brand new vehicle, the dealership usually handles registration on your behalf. The DVLA issues a new registration number and sends the V5C to the registered keeper within 5 working days of registration. You'll also receive a temporary registration document to use while waiting for the V5C.
For imported vehicles, the process is more complex:
- New import (left-hand drive from EU): Must pass an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test, then register with DVLA using form V55/5
- Used import: Requires an MoT, IVA or MSVA test, then register with DVLA using form V55/4
- From Northern Ireland: Different rules apply; check with DVLA for cross-border transfers
The V5C Log Book: Understanding Each Section
The V5C is split into several sections, and it's important to understand which section to use for what purpose:
| Section | Colour | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Front page | Blue | Vehicle details, keeper details, keep for reference |
| Section 6 | Yellow | New keeper details — fill in and send to DVLA when buying |
| Green slip | Green | New keeper notification — give to buyer when selling |
| Section 9 | — | Sold or part exchange — fill in when selling |
| Lost V5C section | — | Declaration when applying for a replacement |
Transferring Ownership — How to Notify the DVLA
When you sell a vehicle, you must notify the DVLA of the change of keeper. You have two options:
Online (Fastest)
Use GOV.UK sell your vehicle and enter the 11-digit V5C reference number plus the new keeper's details. This takes about 5 minutes and the seller receives any road tax refund within 5 working days.
By Post
Fill in section 9 (or the green slip) of the V5C and send it to the DVLA. Processing takes up to 4 weeks. The seller should keep the yellow copy as proof of notification.
Do not simply hand over the V5C to the buyer and assume they'll register it. Until the DVLA processes the notification, the vehicle remains in your name and you remain liable for it — including any fines or penalties incurred.
What the Buyer Needs to Tax the Vehicle
The buyer of a vehicle needs to tax it immediately — before driving on any public road. They'll need one of:
- The green slip (new keeper slip) — the buyer gets this from the seller on the day of purchase. The 21-digit reference on the green slip lets them tax immediately online.
- The full V5C — arrives by post within 5 working days of the DVLA processing the seller's notification. The 11-digit reference on the V5C also works for taxing.
If the seller hasn't notified DVLA yet, the buyer can still tax the vehicle using the green slip. The DVLA system will cross-reference the new keeper details against the seller's notification when it arrives.
What Happens If the V5C Is Lost?
Apply for a replacement V5C using GOV.UK's V5C replacement service or by post using form V62. The fee is £25 online or £30 by post. The replacement takes 5 working days to arrive online, or up to 4 weeks by post.
You cannot tax or sell a vehicle without a V5C. If you need to tax urgently, the green slip from the new keeper process can bridge the gap for the buyer.
Changing Name or Address on the V5C
If your name changes (e.g., marriage) or you move house, you must notify the DVLA. You can update your address online using the GOV.UK change of address service. There's no charge for this.
You must also update your driving licence address separately. The DVLA recommends notifying within 28 days of moving house. Failing to update the V5C with your current address can cause issues with vehicle-related correspondence and potential penalties.
Vehicle Registration and Number Plates
Your vehicle's registration number is assigned by the DVLA when the vehicle is first registered. You can:
- Transfer a private plate — assign a personal number to your vehicle via the DVLA portal
- Retain a plate — take a plate off a vehicle and keep it for future use
- Buy a private plate — from a dealer or from the DVLA's assigned numbers service
Number plates must meet British Standards (BS AU 145e) and be fitted legally — the top of the number plate must be at least 2.5cm above the surface, and plates must not obscure any part of the vehicle's VIN.
First Registration Tax Implications
When you first register a vehicle in the UK, vehicle excise duty (VED) is calculated based on the vehicle's CO2 emissions. The first-year rate is paid at the time of first registration and included in the initial tax payment. After year one, the standard £195/year rate applies (for post-April 2017 vehicles).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a V5C?
A new V5C for a first registration arrives within 5 working days of the DVLA processing the application. A replacement V5C takes 5 working days online or up to 4 weeks by post.
Can I tax a car with just the green slip?
Yes. The green slip (new keeper notification) contains a 21-digit reference number that allows you to tax the vehicle immediately online at GOV.UK. You don't need to wait for the full V5C to arrive.
Who keeps the V5C when selling a car?
The seller fills in the 'sold or part exchange' section and either notifies the DVLA online or posts it. The green slip is given to the buyer. The seller should keep the yellow copy for their records as proof of notification.
Can I register a car without a MoT?
Yes — brand new cars don't need an MoT. However, vehicles over 3 years old require a valid MoT before they can be taxed and driven on public roads. You cannot tax without an MoT.
What if the vehicle I'm buying is registered to someone else?
The green slip proves the seller is authorised to sell. If you're buying from a dealer, they'll handle registration. If buying privately, always check that the V5C name matches the seller's ID and that the vehicle isn't stolen or subject to outstanding finance.
Conclusion
DVLA vehicle registration is straightforward: the seller notifies DVLA on the day of sale, the buyer gets the green slip to tax immediately, and the new V5C arrives by post within 5 working days. Keep your V5C safe — it's your proof of vehicle ownership and is required for every subsequent transaction involving the vehicle.
Use our UK car tax calculator to budget for your vehicle's first-year VED based on its CO2 emissions figure shown on the V5C.