How to Replace Lost Car Documents

How to Replace Lost Car Documents – The Ultimate Guide

Losing car documents, such as your driving license, car registration, insurance documents, MOT certificate, or logbook, can be frustrating. However, it’s not the end of the world. There are simple ways to replace these documents if they are lost or damaged, especially if you're in the process of selling your car. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the replacement process.

Replacing a Lost V5C Logbook

If your car’s logbook (V5C) is lost, you can apply for a duplicate online via the gov.uk website. However, it’s important to note that the duplicate will not include any updated details. If you need to update any information such as:

• Your name or address
• Vehicle details
• Ownership

Then, you must fill out the V62 form and apply for an updated version of the logbook.

For a straightforward duplicate, follow these steps:

• Requirements:
  • Vehicle registration number
  • VIN/chassis number
  • Name and postcode from the logbook
• Cost: £25
• Processing time: Usually 5 working days

Replacing a Lost Vehicle Insurance Certificate

To replace your insurance certificate, contact your insurer directly. If you can’t find your insurer, check your bank statements or visit the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) website. You can request a replacement certificate by completing a Data Subject Access Request.

• Replacement fee: Typically ranges between £7.50 and £30, depending on the insurer.

Replacing a Lost Driving Licence

To replace a lost driving license (either full or provisional), visit the gov.uk website. If your license has been stolen, report it to the police to prevent identity theft.

To replace your license, you will need:

• Your previous address details for the past three years
• Driving license number (if possible), National Insurance number, and passport number
• Cost: £20
• Processing time: A few days (photo will remain the same unless appearance has changed)

If you find your lost license after requesting a replacement, return the old one to the DVLA.

Replacing a Lost MOT Certificate

If you lose your MOT certificate, you can request a replacement for free via the gov.uk website. You will need:

• The vehicle’s registration number
• The 11-digit number on the V5C logbook

MOT certificates cannot be replaced for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), trailers, or public service vehicles (PSVs) via the online service. For these, fill out a document replacement form for HGVs (VTG59) or PSVs (VTP6).

Alternatively, visit any MOT center (not necessarily the one where your car was tested) and request a replacement MOT certificate. They may charge up to £10 for the service.

Costs for Replacing Car Insurance Documents

If you're unsure about your car insurer, you can check your bank statements for payments. Alternatively, visit the MIB website to find your insurer's details.

• Replacement cost: £7.50 to £30, depending on your insurer.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement V5C Logbook?

In 2020, the DVLA introduced an improved online service for replacing lost V5C logbooks, reducing the wait time to just 5 working days.

Previously, replacements took up to 6 weeks. If applying by post, you can expect the replacement logbook in about 6 weeks.

• Cost: £25
• Method: Online or via V62 form (available at the Post Office)

Can You Get Your V5C Logbook Number Online?

Unfortunately, you cannot retrieve your V5C logbook reference number online. If you've lost your logbook, you must apply for a duplicate through the DVLA’s online service or via the V62 form.

What Documents Do You Need for Car Tax?

To tax your car, you'll need the following documents:

• V5C logbook (in your name)
• New keeper slip
• V11 reminder (if you have one)

Alternatively, you can tax the car by phone or at certain Post Offices. If doing so, ensure you have the necessary documents on hand.