How to Get a Replacement V5C Log Book If It Is Lost, Stolen or Damaged

If your vehicle log book has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed, you can apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for a replacement V5C. In most straightforward cases, you can apply online or by phone, provided you are the registered keeper and your details have not changed.

This guide explains how to get a replacement V5C log book, how much it costs, what information you need, and what to do if you cannot apply online.

What Is a V5C Log Book?

A V5C is the vehicle registration certificate issued by the DVLA. It records key information about a vehicle and identifies its registered keeper.

A V5C is not the same as a driving licence. Your driving licence confirms your entitlement to drive, while the V5C records the vehicle’s registration and registered keeper details.

You may need your V5C when selling a vehicle, updating certain vehicle details, or completing other vehicle-related administrative tasks.

Read our guide to changing the address on your V5C log book if your document is available but your address needs updating.

When Do You Need a Replacement V5C?

You should apply for a replacement V5C if your original log book has been:

• Lost or misplaced.
• Stolen.
• Damaged and no longer usable.
• Destroyed.

You may also need to apply for a new log book if you need to update certain details. However, changing your name, address or vehicle information may require a different process.

Before applying, check that you are following the correct DVLA procedure for your circumstances.

How Much Does a Replacement V5C Log Book Cost?

The standard fee for a replacement V5C is usually £25.

If you apply online, you can generally pay by credit or debit card. Postal applications may require a cheque or postal order, depending on the type of application.

The fee and application method can depend on why you need the document. Check the official GOV.UK replacement V5C service before applying.

How to Apply for a Replacement V5C Online

Applying online is usually the simplest option if you are the registered keeper and none of the details on the missing or damaged V5C need to change.

Step 1: Visit the official DVLA service

Go to the GOV.UK vehicle log book service. Make sure you are using the official government website rather than an unofficial service.

Step 2: Prepare the required information

You will generally need:

• Your vehicle registration number.
• The vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number.
• The name and postcode recorded on the V5C.

Check that the details match the DVLA’s records before submitting your application.

Step 3: Complete the application

Follow the online instructions and provide the requested vehicle and registered keeper information.

You must be the registered keeper to use the online replacement service. You cannot normally use it if your personal details or vehicle details need to be changed.

Step 4: Pay the fee

The standard replacement fee is usually £25. Review the payment details shown in the official service before completing the application.

Step 5: Wait for the replacement log book

The DVLA says you will usually receive an online replacement V5C within 5 to 7 working days. If it has not arrived after two weeks, contact the DVLA for advice.

These delivery times can change, so check the latest official guidance when you apply.

Can You Apply for a Replacement V5C by Phone?

Yes. You may be able to apply by phone if you are the registered keeper and the details on the missing or damaged log book remain unchanged.

You will need the vehicle registration number, VIN or chassis number, and the name and postcode recorded on the V5C.

If your name, address or vehicle details have changed, you may not be eligible to use the phone service. Follow the relevant DVLA procedure instead.

You can find the current contact details and eligibility requirements on the official GOV.UK vehicle log book page.

How to Get a Replacement V5C by Post

You may need to apply by post if you need to change vehicle details, did not receive a V5C after buying a vehicle, or took a vehicle out of the UK without its log book.

For the situations covered by the postal application process, you may need to complete form V62 and send it to the DVLA with the required documents and payment.

The form, supporting documents, fee and postal address depend on your circumstances. Read the official instructions before sending your application: How to get a V5C if you cannot apply online.

Allow extra time for postal applications. The DVLA says these usually take around four weeks. Contact the DVLA if your log book has not arrived after four weeks.

What If Your Address Has Changed?

If you have moved house since your previous V5C was issued, do not assume that a standard replacement application will update your address.

You must tell the DVLA about the address change and follow the relevant procedure. The replacement service normally sends the document to the address held in the DVLA’s records.

Read our separate guide on how to change the address on a V5C log book for more information.

If your driving licence address also needs updating, see our guide to changing the address on a UK driving licence.

What If Your V5C Was Stolen?

If you believe your log book was stolen, take steps to protect your personal and vehicle information.

Apply for a replacement through the official DVLA service and check that your vehicle details and registered keeper information are correct. If you suspect the theft is connected to attempted fraud or another crime, consider reporting it to the police.

Do not use a replacement document from an unofficial source. A V5C must be issued through the proper vehicle registration process.

Can You Tax Your Vehicle Without a V5C?

In some circumstances, you may still be able to tax your vehicle while applying for a replacement log book.

The available options depend on whether you are the current registered keeper, whether you have the relevant reference information, and your vehicle’s circumstances.

Check the official guidance on getting a replacement V5C and taxing a vehicle without a tax reminder before proceeding.

Do not assume that applying for a replacement log book automatically resolves every vehicle tax or registration requirement.

What Should You Do If the Replacement V5C Does Not Arrive?

The waiting period depends on how you applied.

• Online or by phone: The DVLA says the replacement usually arrives within 5 to 7 working days. Contact the DVLA if it has not arrived after two weeks.
• By post: The DVLA says postal applications usually take around four weeks. Contact the DVLA if it has not arrived after four weeks.

If six weeks have passed and you have not notified the DVLA that the document has not arrived, you may have to pay £25 for another replacement. Check the current official instructions if your application is delayed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a replacement V5C log book?

The standard replacement fee is usually £25. Check the official DVLA service for the applicable fee and payment method.

Can I replace my V5C online?

Yes, if you are the registered keeper and the details on the missing or damaged V5C do not need to change. You will need your vehicle registration number, VIN or chassis number, and the registered keeper’s name and postcode.

How long does a replacement V5C take?

An online or phone application usually takes 5 to 7 working days. A postal application usually takes around four weeks, depending on the circumstances.

Can I apply for a replacement V5C if I have moved house?

If your address has changed, you should follow the DVLA’s address-change procedure rather than assuming a standard replacement will update your records. The new document is normally sent to the address held by the DVLA.

Is a V5C the same as a driving licence?

No. A V5C is a vehicle registration certificate, while a driving licence relates to your legal entitlement to drive. They serve different purposes.

Where can I apply for an official replacement V5C?

Use the official GOV.UK vehicle log book service to check eligibility, apply and review the current requirements.

Final Thoughts

If your V5C log book is lost, stolen or damaged, start by checking whether you qualify for an online or phone replacement. Prepare your vehicle details, confirm the fee, and apply through the official DVLA service.

If your address, name or vehicle details have changed, check the relevant procedure before applying. Using the correct route can help prevent delays and avoid paying for an application that does not fit your circumstances.

For more information, read our guides to changing your V5C address and changing your UK driving licence address.

Official source: GOV.UK – Get a vehicle log book (V5C)