Do I Need to Inform the DVLA When Scrapping My Car?
17th Mar, 2025
Why You Need to Tell the DVLA When Scrapping Your Car
If you’re scrapping your vehicle, you must tell the DVLA to ensure you’re no longer legally responsible for it. Failing to do so could result in fines, continued tax obligations, or even liability if the car is used illegally after disposal.
How to Tell the DVLA When Scrapping Your Car
1. Update Your DVLA V5C Logbook
The DVLA V5C update is an essential step in the scrapping process.
- Locate your V5C logbook (also known as the vehicle logbook).
- Complete Section 9 (or Section 4 in newer versions) to notify the DVLA that your car has been scrapped.
- Provide this section to the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) and send it to the DVLA by post or online.
2. Receive a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)
Once your car is scrapped at an ATF, you should receive a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) within seven days. This confirms that your vehicle has been dismantled legally and is no longer your responsibility.
3. Notify the DVLA Online
The DVLA provides an online service where you can quickly tell the DVLA that your car has been scrapped by submitting details from your V5C logbook and confirming the ATF handling your vehicle.
4. Cancel Your Road Tax and Insurance
After completing the DVLA V5C update, make sure to cancel your road tax and insurance. If you pay road tax by direct debit, the DVLA will automatically stop future payments and issue a refund for any full months remaining.
What Happens If You Don’t Inform the DVLA?
If you fail to tell the DVLA when scrapping your car, you could face:
- Continued liability for tax and penalties.
- Legal action if the car is used illegally.
- Ongoing correspondence regarding a vehicle you no longer own.
To avoid these issues, always ensure you complete the DVLA V5C update when scrapping your car.
Scrap Your Car the Right Way with Scrap Car Network
At Scrap Car Network, we simplify the scrapping process. We work with licensed ATFs to ensure your vehicle is scrapped legally, and we guide you through how to tell the DVLA and complete your DVLA V5C update correctly.
Get a free quote today and scrap your car with confidence! Need help? Contact us for expert assistance.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you must tell the DVLA when scrapping your car to avoid legal and financial consequences. Completing the DVLA V5C update ensures you are no longer responsible for the vehicle. By choosing a trusted service like Scrap Car Network, you can rest assured that your car is disposed of legally and responsibly.
