Drivers can finally now tax a vehicle online without a V5C

Richard Aucock, Contributor
Wed, 16 Oct 2024

The DVLA has launched a new service that allows motorists to tax a vehicle online even if they have lost the V5C log book and V11 reminder letter.

The long-awaited service is available through GOV.uk and will be a boon for motorists who own a vehicle but can’t find the paperwork to tax it.

Previously, drivers would have to apply for a replacement V5C, and wait up to five days for it to arrive in the post, or phone the DVLA Contact Centre to tax their vehicle.

The new system allows them to apply online for a new V5C and tax their vehicle at the same time.

The change has been facilitated by the DVLA linking the online registration service with the online licensing service. This means drivers can ‘self-serve’ through the two digital channels in one process.

"We are always looking for ways to improve our digital services to provide more convenience for motorists," says DVLA chief executive Julie Lennard.

"This latest enhancement will enable customers who have misplaced or lost their V5C to get a replacement and tax their vehicle quickly and easily."

Motorists will need the registration number of the vehicle, its vehicle identification number (VIN), and the name and postcode registered on the V5C.

As it is currently in beta mode, the new service is only available between 7am and 8pm.

The service costs £25.

Ask HJ

How can we update a V5C if we're in another country?

I currently have my car registered at my address and will transfer it to my wife as new main driver at her address (2 houses). Insurance is in place but I can't tell DVLA in advance online as it won't let me. How do we change the V5C details and re-tax on the sale date as we'll both be in Spain in another vehicle. I'm wary of sending the V5C in case i need it for retaxing the car. Any help gratefully received.

This process is no different to if you were selling the car privately to another party. On the date you wish the transfer to occur, fill in the green sections of the V5/C and complete the transfer online using the DVLA service here: https://www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle. As soon as the transfer has taken place (a matter of hours if you do this between 7am and 7pm) you can use the New Keeper Slip to tax the vehicle online immediately, this way there is no need to send off the V5/C and your wife will receive a new V5/C in the post to the provided address.

Answered by David Ross

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