The V5C registration certificate — commonly called the logbook — is one of the most important documents for any UK vehicle. It proves who is the registered keeper and is required for selling the car, taxing it, and transferring ownership. Losing it is inconvenient, but replacement is straightforward. In 2026, here is how to replace a lost V5C.

What Is the V5C?

The V5C registration certificate is the DVLA's official record of the vehicle's keeper and key details. It contains:

  • Vehicle registration number
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Make, model, colour and year of first registration
  • Engine size and fuel type
  • Current keeper's name and address
  • CO2 emissions figure
  • Tax class and current road tax status

The V5C is not proof of ownership — ownership is established through the purchase receipt and the DVLA's keeper record — but it is essential for all official vehicle transactions.

How to Replace a Lost V5C

Online Application

The fastest way to replace a lost V5C is online at gov.uk/replace-vehicle-registration-certificate. You will need:

  • A valid UK driving licence
  • Access to a credit or debit card for the GBP 25 fee
  • The vehicle's registration number and VIN

Postal Application

Complete a V62 application form — available from post offices or downloadable from gov.uk — and send it with a GBP 25 cheque or postal order to DVLA, Swansea SA99 1AR. Processing takes longer than the online method.

How Long Does Replacement Take?

DVLA aims to despatch replacement V5C documents within 5 working days of receiving a valid application. Online applications are typically faster. Postal applications can take 4 to 6 weeks. If you have not received your replacement V5C within these timeframes, contact DVLA directly.

What If You Need to Tax or Sell While Waiting?

If you need to tax or sell the car before your replacement V5C arrives, you have options:

Taxing Without the V5C

You can tax your vehicle using the V11 reminder letter or by using the DVLA vehicle tax service at gov.uk/tax-vehicle with just the registration number. The DVLA system will verify the keeper's identity and process the tax.

Selling Without the V5C

Selling a car without the V5C is problematic. The new keeper needs the V5C to register the vehicle in their name. Options:

  • Wait for the replacement V5C to arrive before completing the sale
  • Apply for the replacement urgently and delay the sale
  • If urgently required, contact DVLA customer services to check whether a temporary V5C/1 certificate can be issued

V5C/1 — Temporary Registration Certificate

In some circumstances, DVLA can issue a V5C/1 temporary registration certificate as a matter of urgency. Contact DVLA directly to request this if you have an urgent need for vehicle registration documentation.

Fees for Replacement

The standard DVLA fee for a replacement V5C is GBP 25. This fee applies regardless of whether the original was lost, stolen or damaged. If the V5C was stolen, also report the theft to the police and obtain a crime reference number.

What If Someone Else Has Your V5C?

If you believe your V5C has fallen into the wrong hands — for example, if you suspect a rogue trader has a copy — you should notify DVLA immediately. DVLA can flag the document and issue a replacement. Also report to the police if you suspect the V5C may be used fraudulently.

Preventing V5C Loss

Keep the V5C in a safe but accessible location — not in the car. Many owners store it with other important documents at home. Taking a photograph of the V5C — both sides — provides a backup record of all the information, which can be useful when applying for a replacement or when selling the car and the original is misfiled.

Check the details on the V5C periodically to ensure they remain accurate. Errors on the V5C — incorrect colour, fuel type or emissions — can cause issues when taxing or selling the vehicle.