V5C Documentation · UK Guide
What Is a V5C Logbook?
The V5C is the UK's official vehicle registration certificate — but it is commonly misunderstood. It is not proof of ownership. Here is what it actually is, what to check on it, and how to spot a forgery.
Official UK dataFree to useInstant resultsNo account needed
The registered keeper document — not proof of ownership
A V5C (Vehicle Registration Certificate) is the DVLA document recording who is the registered keeper of a vehicle. It is NOT proof of ownership — the legal owner and registered keeper can be different people (common on finance). When buying a used car, always verify: VIN matches physical car, vehicle details match the car, seller's address matches the V5C address, and no signs of alteration. Always run an HPI check alongside it.
Critical: V5C is NOT proof of ownership
This is the most commonly misunderstood fact about the V5C. If a car has outstanding PCP or hire purchase finance, the finance company is the legal owner — not whoever holds the V5C. The registered keeper (V5C holder) is simply responsible for tax and MOT. Always verify with an HPI check that no finance is outstanding before handing over money.
What the V5C Contains: Section by Section
| Section | What it records |
|---|---|
| Front page header | Registration mark (number plate), VIN/Chassis No., Make, Model, Colour |
| Technical details | Engine size (cc), fuel type, body type, number of seats, CO2 emissions |
| Keeper history | Number of former keepers (not their names — those are withheld) |
| Current keeper details | Name and address of the registered keeper — should match who is selling |
| Section 6 (new keeper supplement) | Detachable section given to buyer at point of sale — proves recent keeper transfer |
| Section 8 | Used to register a change of keeper with DVLA |
| DVLA security features | Watermarks, embossed text, serial number — verify against known genuine examples |
V5C Checklist: What to Verify When Buying
VIN on V5C matches the VIN stamped on the dashboard, door sill, and bonnet
Make, model, and colour match the physical vehicle in front of you
Engine size matches what's visible on the engine bay label and DVLA records
Current keeper's address is where you're viewing the car (or explanation provided)
Number of former keepers is consistent with what the seller has told you
No corrections, whiteout, or ink inconsistencies anywhere on the document
Document feels like genuine DVLA paper — no lamination, no colour printing of watermarks
Section 6 (new keeper supplement) is still attached — if not, ask where it is
V5C Forgery: Red Flags
Photocopied or laser-printed document — genuine V5Cs are printed on DVLA security paper
Laminated V5C — genuine documents are never laminated
Inconsistent fonts or typeface on different sections
Whiteout or corrections on any field
Seller 'doesn't have' the V5C but shows a photocopy or image on phone
V5C address is clearly a business address on a private sale
Check MOT History Before Buying
Free DVSA official data — every mileage reading, advisory, and failure. Takes 30 seconds.
Check MOT History Free →Frequently Asked Questions
What is a V5C logbook?
A V5C (Vehicle Registration Certificate) is the official DVLA document that records the registered keeper of a vehicle and its key technical details. It is sometimes called the logbook. It is not proof of ownership — it records the registered keeper, which may differ from the legal owner (for example, on a finance agreement). The V5C is issued by DVLA and must be kept updated whenever keeper details change.
Is the V5C proof of ownership?
No — this is a common and important misunderstanding. The V5C records the registered keeper, not the legal owner. If a car is on PCP or hire purchase finance, the finance company is the legal owner until the final payment. If you are sold a car by someone claiming a V5C proves they own it outright, this is not legally accurate. Always run an HPI check to confirm there is no outstanding finance before buying.
What should I check on a V5C when buying a used car?
Check: (1) The VIN/chassis number matches the physical VIN on the car. (2) The colour, engine size, and make match the physical vehicle. (3) The address shown for the current keeper matches where you're viewing the car — or there is a credible explanation if not. (4) The number of former keepers (listed on the front). (5) No signs of alteration — consistent ink, no corrections, no whiteout.
How do I transfer V5C ownership when selling a car?
Section 6 of the V5C (the 'new keeper supplement') should be completed and given to the buyer at the point of sale. The seller retains the rest of the V5C and sends it to DVLA. DVLA will then issue a new V5C to the new registered keeper within 6 weeks. Both parties should notify DVLA of the sale using the V5C or via gov.uk. This protects the seller from future liability for the vehicle.
What if a V5C is in a different colour to normal?
Standard V5C documents are buff/cream coloured. DVLA issued a revised format (with more security features) in 2019. Green V5C logbooks are sometimes seen — these are the 'new keeper supplement' (section 10) given to a recent buyer to prove registered keeper status while the full V5C is being transferred. Red V5C documents do not exist officially — a claimed 'red logbook' is either a forgery or refers to an older foreign document.
What should I do if I've lost my V5C?
Apply to DVLA for a replacement V5C using form V62, available at the Post Office or downloadable from gov.uk. There is a £25 fee. You will need the vehicle's registration number and your details. A replacement V5C is usually issued within 6 weeks. While you are waiting, you can still drive, tax, and MOT the car — but selling it without a V5C is more difficult as buyers are (correctly) cautious.
Related Tools & Resources
Buying Without V5C
Risks and steps explained
OpenWhat Is a VIN Number
Decode the vehicle identity code
OpenRegistered Keeper Guide
Keeper vs owner explained
OpenStolen Car Check
Verify stolen status
OpenUsed Car Checks Hub
Full pre-purchase process
OpenMOT History Checker
Free DVSA official data
OpenVehicle Report
Full DVLA vehicle details lookup
OpenVehicle Records Hub
All records guides
OpenThe V5C is issued by DVLA. MotR is not affiliated with DVLA, DVSA, HPI or GOV.UK. Always verify the V5C against the physical vehicle and run an HPI check before purchase. Last reviewed 13 June 2026.
Keep reading
Open Buying a Car Without a V5C
The risks, legal position, and practical steps when a car has no logbook.