Instantly Check V5C Online
The DVLA V5C logbook is the official document that proves you are the owner of a vehicle. It’s also sometimes called a registration certificate. The DVLA V5C logbook has a unique reference number, which is also called a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). If you’re buying a car, it’s important to make sure the V5C is genuine.
There are a few things you can do to check if the DVLA V5C is genuine:
- Check that the VIN on the V5C matches the VIN on other documents, such as the car insurance certificate.
- Ask to see the seller’s ID so you can check that their name and address match those on the V5C.
- The logbook must bear a DVLA watermark in the top left corner and elsewhere. If you’ve never seen an original logbook before, it could be difficult to tell the difference.
A V5C Logbook must be genuine, so how can I tell if one is real?
- A document’s watermark and security thread are the best ways to determine their authenticity.
- If the security thread is held up to the light, it should display “V5C” and “UK”.
- The logbook is likely to be fake if either of these items is missing. You can also check by looking at the issue date.
- There is a good chance the logbook is fake if the date is before September 2015. To make sure that the logbook is authentic, you can contact the Department for Vehicles and Road Safety.
- It will be necessary to give them the vehicle registration number and the document reference number from the logbook in order to carry out a check on the vehicle.
- If you follow these steps, you can be sure that you are not being scammed when buying a used car.
Read more on logbook guides : V5C logbook
Why is a logbook check essential?
Buying a used vehicle can be time-consuming and costly without the right information. A logbook check is crucial to ensuring that the vehicle you’re purchasing is not a stolen vehicle. The VIN must match everywhere, such as on the vehicle and the V5C, to verify the vehicle’s authenticity. Due to UK laws that safeguard anonymity for certain safety reasons, we are only permitted to disclose the last five numbers.
How to perform a logbook check to identify a fake V5C?
Knowing the signs of a fake car is important when you buy a used vehicle. It is common for scammers to sell fake cars using V5C log books that have been altered or stolen. Beware of sellers who cannot provide a V5C logbook as you will not be able to check the VIN without one. Another sign of a fake is incorrect or missing paperwork. Make sure that the car has a valid MOT certificate and service history. In cases where something seems out of place, it is best to proceed with caution and walk away. Scams can easily be avoided if you are mindful.
What should I do if my V5C is stolen?
If your V5C has been stolen, you must notify the police immediately. The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) can also be reached at 0300 123 9000. The agency will cancel the document and reissue it to you. If your vehicle is discovered to be using a cloned or fraudulent VIN, it will be seized and crushed.
Is a DVLA V5C logbook check required to buy a used car?
While you perform a logbook check, look for these key things:
- The registered keeper should have the same name and address as you.
- There should be a correct listing of the vehicle’s make, model, VIN and registration number.
- A note should also be made regarding the date of first registration and last sale.
- The “notifications” section should be updated if the vehicle has undergone any changes since it was first registered.
By taking the time to check all of this information, you can be sure that you are buying a car from the rightful owner and that all of the relevant paperwork is in order.
You can do this by post or online, and you’ll need the car’s VIN and the log book. Once you’ve sent off the V5C log book check, the DVLA will update their records and send you a new log book with the new owner’s name on it. The whole process usually takes around six weeks.
