The Complete DVLA Guide to Scrapping Your Car

Scrapping a car isn't just about getting rid of the vehicle — it involves a legal handover process with the DVLA. If this isn't done correctly, you remain the registered keeper. That means parking fines, toll charges, and any offences committed in the vehicle could come back to you long after the car left your driveway.

Your Legal Obligations When Scrapping a Car

Under the End of Life Vehicles (ELV) Regulations 2003, vehicles must be handed to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). ATFs are licensed by the Environment Agency to legally process end-of-life vehicles. Handing your car to an unlicensed buyer is illegal — for them, and it creates problems for you too.

→ Our DVLA notification service handles everything

→ Frequently asked questions about scrapping

What to Do with the V5C (Logbook)

The V5C is the vehicle registration certificate — the 'logbook'. When you scrap your car, you need to complete and send off the relevant section to the DVLA.

• –Section 9 of the V5C (or the green 'new keeper' supplement if recently acquired) is completed by you.
• –The ATF (scrap dealer) completes their section confirming they've taken the vehicle.
• –You retain the yellow section and send it to the DVLA to confirm the disposal.
• –The ATF is required to issue you a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) within 7 days.

The Certificate of Destruction

The Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is your proof that the vehicle has been legally scrapped. It's issued by the ATF through the DVLA's online system. You'll receive it by email or post — keep it. It confirms your liability for the vehicle has ended.

If a scrap buyer says they can't provide a CoD, walk away. They're either not an ATF, or they're not planning to scrap the car — they may be re-selling it, which creates ongoing liability for you.

Cancelling Your Car Tax

Vehicle tax (road tax) is no longer transferable between owners. When you scrap your car, DVLA will automatically cancel the tax and issue a refund for any full months remaining. You don't need to do anything extra — the notification you submit as part of the disposal process triggers the refund.

What if You've Lost the V5C?

A lost V5C doesn't prevent you from scrapping your car, but it complicates the process slightly. You'll need to complete a V62 application form (available from the Post Office or DVLA website) to notify the DVLA of the change of keeper. Your ATF should be able to process the vehicle, but they may request additional proof of ownership.

Never apply for a replacement V5C just to sell or scrap the car. The replacement takes time and you'll pay a fee. Instead, use the V62 process.

After the Car Is Collected

• –Notify your insurer immediately — you can request a refund of unused premium.
• –Keep your Certificate of Destruction in a safe place.
• –Check the DVLA's online vehicle enquiry service to confirm the car is no longer registered in your name (usually updates within 5 working days).
• –Cancel any direct debits related to the vehicle (insurance, breakdown cover).

When scrapcar.london collects your vehicle, we handle the DVLA notification as part of the service. You receive confirmation once the transfer is complete. The whole process is one less thing to worry about.