V5C Logbook Change of Keeper Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to notify DVLA of change of vehicle keeper or ownership details, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong v5c logbook change of keeper should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• State the vehicle registration number, make, model and VIN
• Describe the specific issue
• Request the appropriate correction or replacement document
• Reference the DVLA's V5C process
• Include any relevant reference numbers

Why keeping the V5C up to date matters

The V5C (logbook) records the registered keeper of a vehicle — not necessarily its legal owner, but the person the DVLA considers responsible for it. Failing to update it promptly after buying, selling, or otherwise changing keepers can leave you liable for fines, tickets, or correspondence relating to a vehicle you no longer own or haven't yet legally taken responsibility for.

What to include before you send it

• The vehicle registration number and current V5C reference
• Details of the change — new keeper's name and address, and the effective date
• Confirmation of whether this is a sale, gift, or other change of keeper
• A request for a new V5C to be issued to the correct current keeper

What to do if you've already sold the vehicle

If you've sold a vehicle and correctly notified the DVLA using the relevant section of the V5C at the time, but continue receiving correspondence or fines related to it, this letter can serve as a formal follow-up confirming the change should already have been processed, and requesting urgent correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly should I notify the DVLA of a change of keeper?
You should notify them as soon as possible after the change — delays can result in you remaining liable for the vehicle in the DVLA's records even after you've genuinely parted with it.

Is there a fee for updating the V5C?
Standard changes of keeper are generally free to process, though replacement V5C documents for other reasons (such as a lost logbook) may carry a fee.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
DVLA
[Address - as shown on form V62]
[Date]

Dear Sir or Madam,

Subject: New keeper - no V5C logbook for vehicle registration [Registration Number, e.g. AB12 CDE]

I am writing to tell you that I am the new keeper of the vehicle with registration number [Registration Number]. The vehicle is a [Make, e.g. Ford] [Model, e.g. Focus], vehicle identification number (VIN) [VIN, if known].

I took the vehicle on [Date you got the vehicle] from the previous keeper, [Previous Keeper's Name, if known]. The previous keeper did not give me the V5C registration certificate [or: the online transfer could not be completed].

I have enclosed a completed form V62 (Application for a vehicle registration certificate) and the fee shown on the form, by [payment method shown on the form].

Please update your records and send a new V5C to me at the address above.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]