Log Book Keeper Change: Simple Guide to Updating V5C
So, you’ve just bought or sold a car — now what? One of the most important things you need to do next is update the log book, officially known as the V5C registration certificate. This isn’t just paperwork — it’s how you tell the DVLA who’s now responsible for the car. Whether you’re buying, selling, moving house, or just updating your name, here’s a quick and easy guide to how log book keeper change works in the UK.
First, What Is the Log Book (V5C)?
The log book (or V5C) is a document from the DVLA that tells them who the registered keeper of a car is. That’s the person responsible for taxing it, keeping it insured, and being contacted if there’s a speeding ticket or a parking fine.
📝 Important: It’s not proof of ownership — just proof of who’s responsible for the vehicle on paper.
When Do You Need to Change It?
You’ll need to update the log book if:
- You sell or buy a car
- You gift your car to someone else
- You’ve moved house
- You’ve changed your name
- The car is being scrapped, written off, or exported
Basically, any time the keeper (that’s you) or their details change.
Selling or Buying a Car? Here’s How to Change the Keeper
✅ If You’re the Seller
The easiest way is to do it online:
- Go to gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
- Enter the 11-digit number from your V5C (log book)
- Add the buyer’s details
- Click confirm — and you’re done!
🎉 The DVLA will send the buyer a new log book within about 5 working days.
Don’t forget to give the buyer the green slip (V5C/2) — that’s their proof of being the new keeper while they wait for the full log book.
✅ If You’re the Buyer
Just make sure the seller does the online bit, and hold onto that green slip. If your new V5C doesn’t show up within a couple of weeks, give the DVLA a call.
Prefer Doing It by Post? Here’s What You Need to Do
If you’re old-school or just don’t want to do it online, you can update the keeper by post:
- Fill in Section 6 of the log book with the buyer’s name and address
- Both you and the buyer sign Section 8
- Post the whole log book to:
📮 DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA - The buyer keeps the green slip
It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to get the new log book through the post.
Lost Your Log Book?
No worries — it happens. If you’ve lost your V5C, you can apply for a new one.
- Go to gov.uk/vehicle-log-book
- It costs £25
- You’ll need your car’s registration number, VIN, and your name/address
Once you get the replacement, you can then go ahead and change the keeper.
Changing Your Name or Address?
If you’re not selling or buying, but you’ve changed your name or moved house, it’s still important to let the DVLA know.
- Write your new name or address in the right section of the log book
- Send it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA
- You’ll get an updated log book in a couple of weeks
A Few Final Tips
- Do it ASAP after selling or buying a car — waiting can cause problems (and fines)
- Never hand over a blank log book to a buyer — always do it properly
- If you’re scrapping a car, let the DVLA know through their website
- Keep a copy of the buyer’s details just in case there’s a mix-up
Final Thoughts
Changing the log book keeper sounds like a chore, but it’s actually pretty simple — and really important. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just updating your details, getting the V5C sorted keeps everything legal and hassle-free.
So don’t put it off. Take five minutes, go online or fill out the form, and you’ll be all set.
Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani