V5C Logbook Application – Get Your Vehicle Logbook

V5C logbook is the official proof of vehicle registration in the UK. Whether you’re buying, selling, or already own a car, this document is essential. Issued by the DVLA, it links a vehicle to its registered keeper.

If you’ve misplaced it or never received one, don’t worry—getting a replacement or applying for a new log book is simple. This guide walks you through all the available ways to get your vehicle log book V5C, so you’re never left without the paperwork you need.

How to Get a New V5C Logbook Online

V5C logbook is the most important document proving you’re the registered keeper of your car. If you’ve lost it or never received one, applying online is the quickest way to get a replacement. The process is easy, fast, and handled entirely on the official GOV.UK website.

To use the online V5C service, you must already be the registered keeper of the vehicle. Your personal and vehicle details should match the records held by the DVLA. Otherwise, the system won’t allow your application to go through.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your vehicle registration number
• Your vehicle identification number (VIN) – found on your MOT certificate or the vehicle itself
• A debit or credit card to pay the £25 fee

Once you complete the application for a V5C, you’ll receive your new vehicle log book V5C by post. In most cases, it arrives within 5 working days. If your details are incorrect or outdated, the online option won’t work, and you’ll need to apply by post instead.

Pro Tip: Always double-check that your name, address, and VIN match what’s on file with the DVLA before starting the online application.

Get a New V5C Logbook Over the Phone

If applying online isn’t possible, you can still get your V5C logbook by calling the DVLA. This option is ideal if you’re not comfortable using online services or if your details need confirming manually.

To apply for V5C online by the phone, contact DVLA on 0300 790 6802. Lines are open Monday to Friday, from 8am to 7pm. Make sure you have everything ready before calling.

You’ll be asked to provide:

• Your vehicle registration number
• Your vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number
• Your full name and address, as it appears in DVLA records
• A valid debit or credit card to pay the £25 fee

A DVLA advisor will check your information, confirm your eligibility, and take your payment securely over the phone. If everything is in order, your new vehicle V5C will be sent by post and should arrive within 5 working days.

Note: This option only works if you’re already listed as the registered keeper and your details match what’s on file.

Calling DVLA is a good alternative if your internet access is limited or if you simply prefer speaking to someone directly.

What to Do If You Can’t Apply Online

Not everyone can use the digital route to get a V5C logbook. In some cases, the online system might block your application or not support your specific situation. If that happens, don’t panic—there are still other ways to get your vehicle log book V5C.

You can’t apply online if:

• You’re not listed as the current registered keeper
• You’ve recently changed your name or address
• The vehicle was registered outside the UK
• The DVLA records don’t match your current details
• The car is a classic or imported vehicle with unique records

In these situations, the system won’t process your request. Instead, you’ll need to apply by post using the DVLA V5C form, also known as form V62.

It may seem like a hassle, but postal applications are straightforward. As long as your information is accurate and clearly written, DVLA will process it without issue. You’ll just need to allow a bit more time for processing.

Reminder: If the vehicle was recently purchased and you didn’t get a logbook, wait at least 4 weeks before applying.

Next, we’ll walk you through how to apply for your logbook by post.

Apply for a V5C Logbook by Post

If you’re unable to use the online or phone options, applying by post is your next best step. You’ll need to complete a DVLA form known as V62, which is the application for a V5C. It’s straightforward but takes a bit longer than the other methods.

To apply by post, follow these steps:

• Download or request the V62 form from the DVLA website.
• Fill in all the requested information. You’ll need your:
  • Vehicle registration number
  • Make and model of the vehicle

• Include a £25 payment by cheque or postal order, made payable to DVLA.
• Post the completed form to:
  • DVLA
  • Swansea
  • SA99 1DD

Once DVLA receives your form, your new V5C logbook should arrive within 4 to 6 weeks. It may take longer if they need to check your vehicle details or confirm your identity.

Tip: Always double-check the information you write on the form—errors can delay your vehicle V5C.

This method works even if you’ve never had a V5C before, or your details don’t match DVLA records.

Bought a Vehicle but Didn’t Get a V5C Logbook?

If you recently bought a vehicle and didn’t receive a V5C logbook, don’t worry—it happens more often than you’d think. Whether the seller forgot to hand it over or claimed it was “in the post,” you’ll still need to make sure the DVLA knows you’re the new keeper.

Before you apply for a new vehicle log book V5C, give the seller a chance to send it. If you haven’t received it within 4 weeks, it’s time to take action.

Here’s what to do:

• Wait 4 weeks from the date of purchase
• If it doesn’t arrive, complete a V62 form
• Attach a signed bill of sale or receipt as proof of purchase
• Post it with the £25 fee to the DVLA

If the seller did send the log book and the DVLA processes it, you’ll receive the updated version without needing to apply. But if not, your application for a V5C ensures the vehicle is correctly registered to you.

Important: Never rely on just a verbal agreement. Always get a written receipt when buying a used car—it can help speed things up with the DVLA.

Left the UK Without Your V5C Logbook?

If you’ve taken your vehicle abroad and forgot or lost your V5C logbook, you won’t be able to apply for a replacement while outside the UK. That’s because the DVLA only sends the vehicle V5C to UK addresses.

This situation is common for people who export their vehicle, go on long road trips in Europe, or move temporarily with their car. Unfortunately, DVLA doesn’t offer a digital copy or international delivery.

Here’s what to do:

• Wait until you’re back in the UK
• Once home, apply online, by phone, or by post
• Make sure to update your UK address with DVLA

If your vehicle is staying abroad permanently, you’ll need to notify DVLA of the permanent export instead. In this case, don’t apply for a replacement V5C—you’ll need to complete a different form or fill in the export section of the original log book if you still have it.

Tip: Always travel with your original V5C logbook when driving abroad. It proves ownership and avoids issues at borders or during police checks.

If You Also Need to Tax Your Vehicle

If you’re missing your V5C logbook and also need to tax your car, you can do both at once—but you’ll need to apply by post.

When applying for a replacement V5C using the V62 form, you can request road tax at the same time, provided your vehicle has:

• A valid MOT certificate
• Proof of insurance

Here’s what to do:

• Complete the V62 application for a V5C.
• Include the £25 fee by cheque or postal order (payable to DVLA).
• Bring your MOT certificate and insurance documents.
• Visit a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax services.
• Submit everything in one go.

The Post Office will handle both the taxing process and forward your V5C logbook application to the DVLA.

Tip: If you’ve received a V11 reminder, you can use the reference number on it to tax your vehicle—even without the V5C.

This is the most efficient way to get your car taxed legally while waiting for your new vehicle V5C to arrive.

Conclusion

Getting a V5C logbook doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’ve lost it, never received one when buying a car, or took your vehicle abroad without it, there’s a clear path to getting a replacement.

You can:

• Apply online if your details are correct and DVLA holds your record
• Call DVLA for a quick replacement over the phone
• Use the postal V62 form if online services aren’t available to you
• Apply at the Post Office and sort your vehicle tax at the same time
• Always provide accurate details like your vehicle identification number to avoid delays

Each route leads to the same goal – a new vehicle logbook V5C that proves you’re the legal keeper of your vehicle.

Source / Ref.: Gov.uk  Contains public sector information licensed under Open Government Licence v3.0.

Written by [Ketan Borada / British Portal Team] – Founder of British Portal, dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on UK public services and benefits.