Can I sell a car without a V5C logbook?

It is possible to sell a car without a V5C, but it’s not recommended.
The V5C records the registered keeper of the car. If you don’t have the document, you might put off potential buyers and you risk getting a much lower valuation for your car. But if you’ve lost the V5C form or don’t have it, it is possible to sell a car and transfer ownership.

What is the V5C and why does it matter?

The V5C, also called the logbook, is a document issued by the DVLA that records the registered keeper of the car. It doesn’t record the legal owner, so it doesn’t technically prove ownership, but it's a key part of the selling process because it links you to the vehicle in official records.
The logbook shows the car’s history, confirms you’re the registered keeper, and helps prove there's no outstanding finance or disputes over ownership. This can reassure buyers and speed up the sale. Without a V5C, many buyers will walk away from a sale.

What if you’ve lost your V5C?

If your V5C is missing or damaged, the best course of action is to get a replacement from the DVLA. It only costs £25 and can be done either online, by phone, or by post.
If your details haven’t changed, you can apply online via the official GOV.UK website or by phone. If your name, address, or other details have changed, you’ll need to complete a V62 form and post it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DD. The form is available to download from the DVLA website. You’ll need to include your car’s registration number, VIN, and the name and postcode referenced on the original logbook. If your replacement hasn’t arrived after four weeks, it’s a good idea to contact the DVLA.

If you can't wait for a replacement to arrive, you can still legally try to sell your car, just expect buyers to be cautious. Without a V5C, you’ll need to provide a detailed bill of sale that includes:
The car’s make, model, registration number, and VIN Your name and the buyer’s name and address The date of the sale The agreed price and payment terms Both signatures A statement that the vehicle is sold as seen Be clear in any listings or conversations with buyers that the logbook is missing. It’s also important to inform the DVLA in writing after the sale. You’ll need to send a letter to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DD Include the vehicle’s registration, make and model, the date of the sale, and the new keeper’s name and address. Once this is done, allow up to four weeks for confirmation that you’re no longer the registered keeper. If you don’t receive anything after that time, follow up with the DVLA. The buyer will also need to fill in a V62 form to apply for a new V5C. Without this, the vehicle won’t be correctly registered in their name.

Buyers, especially dealerships, often avoid cars without a V5C due to concerns over theft, write-offs, or outstanding finance. In some cases, sellers may have taken out a logbook loan, which means a third party could legally own the car until a debt is repaid. If a buyer unknowingly purchases a car with this type of finance still active, they risk losing both the car and the money they paid for it.
Even if no finance is involved, missing documentation makes it harder for buyers to trust that the sale is legitimate and many will either walk away or offer far less than the car is worth.

Yes, you can legally scrap your car without a V5C. However, it must be taken to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), and you’ll still need to notify the DVLA that the vehicle has been scrapped. Many scrapyards prefer to see a logbook to ensure they are dealing with the correct registered keeper, so having the V5C makes life easier.

Selling a car without a V5C isn’t impossible, but it makes the process harder, slower, and potentially more costly. Many buyers will see the missing logbook as a red flag, and even those who are still interested may try to negotiate a lower price. To get the best value and avoid delays, it’s worth ordering a replacement and keeping your details up to date.
If you’re ready to sell your car, explore your options with Autotrader.