What you need to know about V5C costs
The standard fee for a replacement V5C log book (vehicle registration certificate) is £25. This charge applies whether you apply online through the DVLA portal or send a paper application by post.
If you are buying a vehicle from a private seller, the V5C should be handed over at the point of sale at no extra cost. The seller is responsible for completing the "new keeper" section and sending it to the DVLA; you will receive a new V5C/2 (new keeper) slip for free.
When the £25 fee applies
The £25 replacement fee is required in the following situations:
- Lost, stolen or damaged V5C
- Incorrect details that need a full replacement
- Requesting a duplicate after the original has been sent to the DVLA
For a simple change of address or name, the DVLA will issue a free V5C/2 slip – you do not need to pay the £25.
How to apply for a replacement
Online application (fastest)
Visit the official DVLA website, fill in the vehicle details, pay the £25 by card, and you will receive a digital confirmation. The new V5C will be posted within 4‑6 weeks.
Post application (traditional)
Complete the V62 form, include a cheque or postal order for £25, and send it to the DVLA address shown on the form. Processing times are similar to the online route.
Free alternatives and common misconceptions
There is no legitimate way to obtain a V5C for free unless you are the original owner receiving the first certificate from the DVLA. Be wary of third‑party websites promising a "cheap" or "free" log book – these are often scams that sell forged documents, which can lead to legal trouble and invalidate any insurance.
When a vehicle is sold, the seller must give you the V5C (or at least the green "new keeper" slip). If they refuse, you should treat the transaction with caution and consider walking away.
Other costs to consider when checking a used car
While the V5C price is straightforward, a thorough used‑car check involves additional checks that may have separate fees:
- DVLA MOT history – often free online via the official MOT history service.
- Insurance write‑off status (MIAFTR categories A, B, S, N) – free checks are available on many comparison sites.
- PNC stolen marker – a small fee may apply for a detailed check.
- Outstanding finance – specialist services charge a modest fee to confirm if the car is still under a loan.
All these checks help you avoid hidden problems that a cheap V5C cannot reveal.
Why you should verify the registration on motorpeek.com
Motorpeek offers a comprehensive vehicle history report that pulls data from the DVLA, MOT database, insurance write‑off records and finance registries. By entering the registration number, you get a single, easy‑to‑read report that confirms the V5C details match the official record, saving you time and protecting you from fraud.
Before you finalise any purchase, run a quick check on motorpeek.com – it’s fast, reliable and designed for UK used‑car buyers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a V5C log book for free if I lose it?
No. If the original V5C is lost, stolen or damaged, the DVLA charges a standard replacement fee of £25, whether you apply online or by post.
Is the £25 fee the same for all vehicles?
Yes. The replacement fee is a flat £25 for any vehicle class, from cars to motorcycles, as long as you are applying for a full V5C replacement.
Are there any legitimate sites that sell cheap V5C certificates?
No. Only the DVLA can issue a valid V5C. Third‑party sites offering cheaper or free log books are usually scams and may provide forged documents that are illegal to use.