What documents do I need to scrap my car?
Whether your motor has failed an MOT, been written off in an accident, or has just reached the end of its useful life, you’ll need to produce the right paperwork if you want to scrap your car.
We’ve put together a simple guide covering all the documents you’ll need when scrapping your car. We’ll also explain what to do when the V5C logbook is missing and when scrapping a car on behalf of someone else.
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Documents you’ll need to scrap your car
When scrapping your car, you may be asked for the following documents and details:
- Vehicle registration document (V5C logbook).
- V5C/3.
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence).
- Proof of address (bank statement or utility bill).
- Your bank details (to receive payment).
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?
Yes, you can scrap a vehicle that isn’t in your name, but you may be asked to present the following paperwork:
- A letter from the owner granting you permission to sell the car for scrap.
- Photo ID for you and the owner (passport or driving licence).
- A utility bill for the owner.
Although this is not a strict requirement, it’s also beneficial to present the relevant section of the V5C logbook, completed and signed by the owner.
This is Section 4 in the new style logbooks (issued from April 2019) and Section 9 in the older style (issued prior to April 2019).
These documents help to prove to the scrap dealer that the vehicle hasn’t been stolen and that you have permission from the owner to scrap it.
Can I scrap my car with a personalised registration?
Yes, you can scrap your car with a personalised registration.
Want to retain your private plate? You’ll need to take it off your car before scrapping it.
If you scrap your car without removing the plate, you’ll lose the rights to the registration. However, if you’re happy to lose the private plate when you scrap it, no action is required.
Scrapping a car with a personalised registration
The easiest way to retain your private plate is via the ‘Take a private number off a vehicle’ service on the DVLA website.
Alternatively, you can submit a V317 form to the DVLA by post. Whichever option you choose, a charge of £80 will apply.
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 number plate retention certificate.
Do I need a V5C logbook to scrap my car?
If you are scrapping through an ATF (Authorised Treatment facility) or scrapyard, you can scrap your car without a V5C logbook, although having this document makes the process easier.
According to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all dealers only require proof of address and photo ID. So, you don’t need a V5C logbook to scrap your car at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
Car scrapping regulations (ATF)
- When scrapping your car, you should bring valid photo ID and proof of address.
- You should bring your car to a licenced ATF and they will handle all the paperwork for you.
- Since 2013, it has been illegal for scrap yards to pay for scrap metal in cash.
Can I scrap my car with webuyanycar?
Yes, you can also ‘scrap’ your car through webuyanycar, but we will require the following documentation:
- V5C logbook.
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence).
- Bank details (to receive payment).
- Settlement letter (if the car has outstanding finance).
Please note: If you bring passport ID, we’ll also need proof of address from the last 9 months (e.g. utility bill, council tax bill, or bank statement.) This is not required if you bring your driving licence.
You can apply to the DVLA for a replacement V5C logbook at a cost of £25 if this document is missing.
What happens after I’ve scrapped my car
After scrapping your car, it’s your responsibility to notify the DVLA. If you fail to do so, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.
The easiest way to do this is via the DVLA website. You’ll need the 11-digit reference number from the most recent version of the V5C logbook.
If you don’t have this, you should write a letter to the DVLA including the following details:
- Your name and address.
- The car’s registration, make, and model.
- The date of the sale.
- The name and address of the ATF.
Post the letter to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD.