Do I need to fill any documents in when scrapping?

To transfer your car to a dismantler, fill in the section 9 tear-out section of your V5C using the information above and send it to the address on this document. DVLA will then issue a new V5C to the dismantler at the address you’ve given. The dismantler will then return your old log book.

Tearing this section out of the V5C log book can be done any time before you hand the car over. However, as it’s important that the DVLA is notified of your change of use, it’s recommended that you provide the new keeper or owner with a copy.

You’ll need to give the new keeper or buyer your old log book (V5C) if you were the registered keeper at the time of disposal. If you disposed of a commercial vehicle, you must also fill in section 24 V5C and give this to the new keeper – this section includes details about when and how to tax the vehicle.

Sending a letter confirming the sale of your car

If you opt to submit a letter, please be sure to include all of the information the DVLA will require, including:

•    Your name and address details

•    The vehicle’s registration number

•    The date of the sale

•    The name, address, and VAT number of the scrap yard buying your car

Since you’ll probably need some details from the trader who is buying your car, it’s sometimes worth completing this letter in advance – before adding the scrap yard details at the point of collection.

When complete, you should send your letter to:

DVLA

Swansea

SA99 1BD

Confirming the sale of your vehicle online

Well before selling, selling or disposing of your vehicle, you should contact the DVLA. The Post Office or DVLA will give you a V5C/4 document (not all Post Offices can issue this). By completing the section called ‘change of circumstances’, you are notifying the DVLA of any change in circumstances that affect the ownership records. This includes selling or scrapping your vehicle.

Once your vehicle has been declared roadworthy, it’s important that you complete the correct forms and send them to DVLA. This helps the DVLA keep track of your vehicle details. If you don’t, you could be subject to a fine of up to £1,000.

As well as a penalty for not helping the DVLA keep their records up to date, you may also find yourself running into issues relating to taxing and insuring the car – even if it’s been scrapped. Many of the DVLA’s systems run automatically, so, if you haven’t informed the DVLA that your car has been sold to a dismantler, further automatic fines can be issued if the system picks up on lapsed tax or insurance. While this is unlikely, it’s not impossible – so it’s far better to be safe than sorry.

If you have any doubt about the paperwork that needs to be completed, your recovery driver will be happy to assist.