Documents Needed to Scrap a Car: V5C, ID and What to Do If Yours Is Missing

The V5C logbook

The V5C logbook is the most important document in the scrap car process — but not having it does not automatically prevent collection. The V5C (the registration certificate or logbook) records the registered keeper, the vehicle specification and its registration history. Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs) must record vehicle and keeper information when they accept an end-of-life vehicle, and the V5C is the simplest way to confirm it.

With the V5C, collection can go ahead without extra ownership checks. If you cannot find it, tell the buyer before collection is arranged — not on the day.

What to do if you do not have the V5C

A missing V5C is one of the most common complications, and it is manageable if you deal with it early. You have two realistic options: request a replacement from the DVLA, or proceed without one.

A replacement V5C can be requested online through GOV.UK or with a V62 form from a Post Office. There is a fee, and the replacement usually arrives within a few working days. If you cannot wait, many ATFs will proceed without a V5C provided you can confirm your identity, show you are the registered keeper, and disclose the situation at the quote stage. The buyer may ask for extra ownership confirmation, but collection is usually still possible.

Filling in the V5C/3 yellow slip

If you have the full logbook, you will need to complete the yellow V5C/3 slip before or at handover. This section tells the DVLA that the vehicle has gone to a motor trader or scrap dealer.

Fill in the buyer's details, sign and date the slip, and the driver will take it. Keep the rest of the V5C for your records — you will need it for the online DVLA notification and as evidence if any question about the vehicle comes up later.

Notifying the DVLA

Telling the DVLA when you hand over the vehicle is a legal requirement and takes a few minutes. The quickest way is GOV.UK's "Tell DVLA you've sold, transferred or bought a vehicle" service, which needs only the registration number and the buyer's details.

Do it promptly. Until the DVLA record is updated, you remain the registered keeper on paper and could still receive insurance enforcement notices, tax reminders or parking charges for the vehicle.

ID requirements and the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013

The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 requires licensed scrap metal dealers — including ATFs — to verify the identity of the person handing over a vehicle. The driver may ask for your name and address, and some buyers ask for photo ID such as a passport or driving licence before paying.

This is a legal requirement, not bureaucracy. If a buyer asks for no identification and offers cash, they are almost certainly operating outside their licence. Legitimate dealers pay by bank transfer — cash payments for scrap vehicles are illegal under the same Act.

Certificate of Destruction

Once a licensed ATF has processed the vehicle, it must issue a Certificate of Destruction (CoD). This formally confirms the vehicle has been scrapped, ends your liability as registered keeper and updates the DVLA's records.

The CoD may come by post or email. Keep it: it is your proof the car was properly disposed of if a fine, insurance dispute or DVLA letter arrives later.

Removing personal data and belongings

Before handover, remove everything personal: check the glovebox, seat pockets, boot and storage compartments for documents, charging cables, dashcams, toll tags and navigation devices.

Clear saved addresses from a built-in satnav, Bluetooth pairing history and any garage door remote. If you want to keep a personalised number plate, start the DVLA retention before the car goes — once a CoD is issued, moving the plate to another vehicle may not be possible.

Quick checklist before collection