Whether your car has failed a MOT, been written off in an accident, or has just reached the end of its useful life, there is precise paperwork you must show if you want to scrap it.
We've put together a simple guide of the necessary documents to help you save time and guarantee you have everything you need to properly scrap your vehicle.
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Documents you’ll need to scrap your car
If you are looking to scrap your car, there are a few documents you will need:
- Vehicle registration document (V5C)
- V5C/3
- Certificate of Destruction (CoD)
- Photo ID
- Proof of address
Do I need photo ID to scrap my car?
Yes, a valid photo ID is required in order to scrap your car. It might take the form of a passport or a driving licence. Additionally, you will require address verification, such as a current utility bill or bank statement.
Can I scrap a car that isn’t in my name?
Technically, yes, but you must present the relevant documentation before the vehicle can be scrapped. The vehicle doesn't necessarily need to be in your name, but you must demonstrate that you have the owners’ permission to scrap it.
The documents needed include:
- The relevant section of the V5C logbook – completed and signed by the owner.
- A letter from the owner granting you permission to sell the car for scrap.
- Photo ID for the owner.
- A utility bill for the owner.
This is to prove to the scrap collector that the vehicle hasn’t been stolen and that you have permission from the owner to scrap it.
Scrapping cars with personalised registrations
Many people are unsure if they can keep their personalised number plate when they scrap their car. As long as you transfer your licence plate to another vehicle, before scrapping, you can retain your private plate. Simply submit a V317 form (available to download on the the GOV.uk website) to apply to keep your current reg plate.
This service has an £80 cost. The current logbook is required if you want to move the licence plate to a new vehicle.
The application will be accepted so long as the vehicle is:
- Registered in the UK.
- Able to move using its own power.
- The type of vehicle requiring an MOT or HGV certificate.
- Taxed or subject to a SORN for five consecutive years.
- Currently taxed or SORN'd.
If you don't have another vehicle to transfer the private plate to, you can retain it by obtaining a V778 document - or sell it. Selling a number plate is a great way to make some extra money.
Car scrapping regulations (ATF)
For a car to be legally scrapped, certain conditions must be met. These conditions are designed to support the operation of the scrapping industry whilst still minimising environmental harm. If not disposed of properly, certain car parts can damage the environment.
According to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, it is a legal requirement that your vehicle is scrapped by an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
ATF licenses are issued by either the Environmental Agency or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency - and any reputable scrap company will be able to demonstrate their certification.
This legislation was designed to reduce automotive crime and dishonest dealings at scrapyards. It’s important to ensure you use a reputable scrap dealer as copies of your personal documents will be held on file by the ATF for three years. So, you should feel confident that your details are in safe hands.
Can I still scrap my car without a V5C logbook?
Yes, if you have the registration document (V5C/2), you can still scrap your car without a V5C logbook. When you scrap your car, the V5C/2 must be given to the scrapyard.
The V5C logbook is not required if you want to scrap a vehicle that is out of date or does not have a current MOT. Only if you're selling or transferring the vehicle do you need the logbook.
According to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all dealers only require proof of address and photo ID from sellers meaning you don’t need a logbook to scrap your car with an ATF.
You can bring the vehicle to a licenced scrapyard, and they will handle all the paperwork for you.
If your car is subject to a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) you don't need a V5C logbook to scrap it.
To scrap a car that's not SORN, you will need the last V5C registration document (logbook) to prove ownership. If you don't have the V5C, contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to get a copy.
Full article and guide: Can I still scrap my car without a V5C logbook?