V5C logbook: ultimate guide
The V5C logbook is one of the most important documents you’ll encounter when buying or selling a car in the UK. Often called the registration document, it contains details about the vehicle’s registered keeper and is crucial for proving legal ownership, organising tax, and transferring the car from one owner to another.
Understanding what the V5C logbook is, how it works and what to check can protect you from fraud, incorrect ownership and costly mistakes. This guide covers everything you need to know before you commit to a used vehicle purchase.
What is a V5C logbook?
The V5C logbook is a document issued by the DVLA that shows the registered keeper of a vehicle. It’s not proof of legal ownership in the same way a title deed is, but it does record who is responsible for taxing and keeping the vehicle.
The V5C includes key information such as:
- Vehicle registration number
- Registered keeper’s name and address
- Vehicle make, model and colour
- Engine size and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Date of first registration
- Previous keeper details
In the UK, keeping the V5C up to date is a legal requirement and an important step when a car changes hands.
Why the V5C logbook matters
Confirming the keeper
A V5C logbook helps confirm the person selling the car is the listed keeper. While the keeper isn’t always the legal owner (for example, in cases of finance), a matching name and address give you confidence that the seller is legitimate.
Tax and legal responsibilities
The registered keeper is responsible for taxing the vehicle, and until the V5C is updated after sale, tax remains in their name. Ensuring the V5C is correctly updated protects both buyer and seller from unnecessary tax liabilities.
How to check a V5C logbook
When you inspect a car you’re considering buying, always ask to see the original V5C logbook — not a photocopy — and check that:
- The VIN on the document matches the VIN on the car
- The registered keeper’s details match the seller’s ID
- The registration number and engine details are correct
- There are no signs of tampering or alterations
A fraudulent or incorrect V5C is one of the easiest ways for a stolen, cloned or financed vehicle to be misrepresented — and a thorough check can protect you from these issues.
Transferring the V5C after sale
When you buy a car, the seller must use the V5C to transfer the registered keeper details to you. In practice:
- The seller completes the ‘new keeper’ section of the V5C
- Both you and the seller sign the relevant sections
- The seller sends the V5C to the DVLA
- You receive a new V5C with your details
Until the new V5C arrives, you are legally responsible for taxing the vehicle if you use it on the road.
Common mistakes and pitfalls
Even experienced buyers and sellers can make errors with the V5C logbook. Some common pitfalls include:
- Accepting only a photocopy rather than seeing the original
- Not checking that the VIN on the logbook matches the vehicle’s chassis stamp
- Forgetting to update the logbook promptly after sale
- Assuming the V5C proves ownership without checking finance status
Combining a V5C check with a full vehicle history report and finance check gives you the clearest picture of a car’s background.
Conclusion
The V5C logbook is an essential document in every UK used car transaction. Knowing what it shows, how to check it and how to complete a transfer correctly helps you avoid fraud, tax issues and legal complications. You should never skip a V5C check when inspecting a car before buying — it’s a fundamental step in safeguarding your purchase.
How Rooster supports safer buying
The Rooster app helps you stay informed and confident throughout the used car buying process. With Rooster you can:
- Check vehicle history including past keepers and VIN consistency
- Get an estimated valuation before you commit
- Compare prices and book services, repairs and MOTs for up to 50% less
- Store all car documents including the V5C securely
- Check CAZ and ULEZ compliance easily
- Access flexible insurance options and breakdown cover from £2.99 per month
Download the Rooster app today to make your next car purchase safer, smarter and more efficient.
