How to Read a V5C Logbook: Understanding Every Section

Summary

• What it is: The V5C proves who the registered keeper is (not necessarily the owner).
• Key sections: Vehicle details, registered keeper, previous keepers, and document reference.
• When buying: Always check the V5C matches the car and the seller.
• Report changes: Update the DVLA when you buy, sell, or change address.

The V5C logbook is one of the most important documents for your car. But many drivers don't really understand what's on it.

This guide explains every section of the V5C and what to check.

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What Is a V5C?

The V5C, also known as the logbook or vehicle registration certificate, is issued by the DVLA. It shows:

• Who the registered keeper is
• Vehicle details (make, model, colour, engine size, etc.)
• The vehicle registration number
• Previous keeper information

Important: The registered keeper is not necessarily the owner. You can legally own a car that's registered to someone else (e.g., a company car or lease).

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V5C Sections Explained

Section 1 - Registered Keeper

Shows the current keeper's name and address. This should be updated whenever the car changes hands or the keeper moves.

Section 2 - Vehicle Details

Field	What It Shows
Registration mark	The number plate (VRM)
Make/Model	Manufacturer and model name
Colour	Registered colour (update if you respray)
VIN	Vehicle Identification Number (chassis number)
Engine number	Unique engine identifier
Cylinder capacity	Engine size in cc
CO2 emissions	Used for tax calculations
Date of first registration	When the car was first registered in the UK
Year of manufacture	When the car was made (may differ from registration)
Type approval	Certification standard

Section 3 - Previous Keepers

Shows how many previous keepers there have been and when ownership changed. Doesn't show names/addresses of previous keepers for privacy.

Section 4 - New Keeper Supplement (Green Slip)

This tear-off section is given to the buyer when a car is sold. It proves the buyer's right to use the vehicle while waiting for the new V5C.

Section 5 - Notification of Permanent Export

Used when taking a car out of the UK permanently.

Section 6/7/8 - Changes and SORN

For notifying the DVLA of changes to the vehicle or taking it off the road (SORN).

Document Reference Number

An 11-digit number used when taxing the vehicle online or making other DVLA transactions.

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Checking the V5C When Buying a Car

Always verify the V5C when buying a used car:

Essential Checks

• ☐ Registration number matches the car's plates
• ☐ VIN on the V5C matches the VIN on the car (check door frame/windscreen)
• ☐ Make, model, and colour match the actual car
• ☐ Seller's name and address match the V5C
• ☐ V5C looks genuine (watermark, red DVLA print)
• ☐ Document isn't a "new keeper supplement" only

Red Flags

• Seller isn't the registered keeper
• V5C was recently issued (could indicate a recent change to hide history)
• Details don't match the vehicle
• V5C is a photocopy
• Seller says V5C is "in the post"

Always run a vehicle history check to verify there's no outstanding finance, write-off history, or stolen marker.

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V5C Colours and What They Mean

Colour	Meaning
Red (burgundy)	Standard V5C for registered vehicles
Green	New keeper supplement (temporary proof)
Blue	Export or temporary registration

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When to Update the V5C

You must tell the DVLA when:

• You buy or sell the vehicle
• You change address
• You change the vehicle's colour
• The engine is replaced
• The vehicle is modified significantly
• The vehicle is scrapped, exported, or written off

Most updates can be done online at GOV.UK or by post.

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Lost or Damaged V5C

You can apply for a replacement V5C:

• Online at GOV.UK (quickest)
• By post using form V62
• Cost: £25

See our guide to replacing lost documents for more.

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V5C and Ownership

A common misconception: the V5C doesn't prove ownership. It proves who is responsible for the vehicle (registered keeper).

Ownership is a separate legal matter. For example:

• A car on finance is owned by the finance company, but registered to you
• A company car is owned by the company, but you're the registered keeper

When buying privately, other proof (receipt, bank transfer, etc.) helps establish ownership.

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Common Questions

How long does it take to get a new V5C after buying a car?

Usually 2-4 weeks. Use the green new keeper supplement as temporary proof in the meantime.

Can I tax a car without the V5C?

Yes, if you have the green new keeper supplement with the document reference number.

What if the V5C has the wrong colour?

Update it via DVLA. The registered colour should match the actual colour.

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Final Thoughts

The V5C is essential for proving keeper status and verifying vehicle details. Check it carefully when buying a car, keep it safe, and update it whenever your details change.

For more on V5Cs, see our complete V5C guide.

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