Lost your logbook? You’re not alone. Thousands of UK drivers misplace their V5C every year and while it complicates things, it won’t stop you from selling.
Here’s what you need to know about selling a car without a V5C logbook and how we can help.

• • What Is the V5C Logbook?
    The V5C is the official vehicle registration document issued by the DVLA.
    It confirms who the registered keeper of the vehicle is but not legal ownership. You’ll need it (or a replacement) to:
    • Sell the vehicle legally
    • Notify DVLA of the change of ownership
    • Avoid delays or issues post-sale
  • Can I Still Sell My Car Without It?
    Yes but there are some things to note:
    • Many private buyers and dealers will refuse the car
    • You’ll need to prove ownership and identity
    • You’ll still need to complete DVLA notification online or by post
  • We only buy cars with the logbook but we’ll help you with the replacement admin.
  • What To Do If You’ve Lost Your Logbook
    You can apply for a replacement V5C via form V62:

• • • Available at the Post Office or online
    • Costs £25
    • Can take up to 6 weeks
  • What You’ll Need
    To sell a your car, we’ll need:

• • Proof of ID (driver’s licence or passport)
  • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
  • V5 & Service history or MOT certificate (if available)
• Our experts will review what you’ve got and advise on the smoothest route to sale.
• How No V5 Affects Your Valuation
  
  • Cars with no logbook tend not to sell
  • There’s a perceived risk for buyers, especially for newer or high-value vehicles
  • You’ll often get a better price by replacing the V5C first  but if time matters
  • we can talk to dealers in our verified trade network and let them know
• Final Tip: Be Honest Upfront
  Disclose that the logbook is missing when you request a valuation. It avoids wasted time, surprises, and lets us tailor your sale route properly.

Selling your car in the UK? Make sure you’ve got the paperwork sorted before you start. Missing documents can delay the sale or stop the sale entirely. Here’s what you need to know.

Documents You’ll Need to Sell Your Car

• V5C Logbook (Vehicle Registration Document)
  This proves you’re the registered keeper
  • Required by law
  • You’ll need to fill in the new keeper section or notify the DVLA online
  • If you’ve lost it, apply for a replacement via V62 (cost: £25)

• MOT Certificate
  
  • A valid MOT (if the car is over 3 years old) shows the car is roadworthy
  • Buyers often check this before committing
  • You can download a copy online if needed
• Service History
  
  • Not mandatory but hugely valuable
  • A full or even partial service book builds trust and often improves your price
  • Include invoices for work done (brakes, tyres, cambelt, etc.)
• Proof of Identity
  
  • A valid UK driving licence or passport
  • This helps prevent fraud and is expected in any direct sale or part-exchange
• Proof of Address
  
  • A utility bill or bank statement (dated within the last 3 months)
  • Some buyers may ask for this to confirm you’re the legal owner
• Spare Keys & Owner’s Manual
  
  • These aren’t legal requirements but they boost your final offer
  • Mention them upfront to get the most accurate valuation
• Selling Without a Logbook?
  It’s still possible but expect:

• • A lower offer
  • Longer processing time
  • More paperwork (you’ll need to prove ownership through other means)
• We buy cars with or without logbooks. Speak to your dedicated buyer and we’ll walk you through it.

Final Checklist Before You Sell

• • V5C logbook
  • MOT certificate
  • Service history (if you’ve got it)
  • ID and proof of address
  •  All keys and paperwork ready