How to Update Your Vehicle Registration When the Previous Keeper Has Not Notified DVLA

If you have recently bought a vehicle but the previous keeper has not informed the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about the change of ownership, you will need to update the vehicle registration yourself. Until this is done, the DVLA’s records will still show the previous keeper as the registered keeper, which can lead to issues such as receiving tax reminders or fines addressed to the former owner.

Using Form V62 to Register as the New Keeper

The official method to update the vehicle registration in this situation is to complete and post form V62, titled “Application for a vehicle registration certificate (V5C).” This form is intended for cases where the current keeper is not recorded on the DVLA’s system, including when the previous keeper has not notified the DVLA of the sale or transfer.

• Where to get the form: Form V62 is a print-only document and cannot be completed online. You can download and print it from the official DVLA website or obtain a paper copy from certain post offices.
• How to complete it: Fill in the form by hand, providing details about the vehicle (such as make, model, and registration number), your details as the new keeper, and information about the previous keeper if known.
• Submitting the form: Once completed, post the form to the DVLA. There is usually no fee to apply for a vehicle registration certificate using form V62 unless you are requesting a new style V5C or other specific services—check the latest DVLA guidance to confirm if a fee applies.

What Happens Next?

After the DVLA processes your V62 application, they will issue a new V5C registration certificate in your name. This document, commonly known as the log book, confirms you as the registered keeper. You will also be able to tax your vehicle at the same time as applying for the V5C if needed.

Until the DVLA updates their records, the vehicle remains officially registered to the previous keeper. This means that for enforcement or correspondence purposes, the previous keeper might still be contacted. Updating the registration promptly helps to reduce any risk of misunderstandings or penalties.

Important Notes and Exceptions

• If you have lost the existing V5C or never received one, the V62 form is the appropriate way to apply for a replacement or first registration certificate.
• You cannot use the online service to change the registered keeper details if you do not have a valid V5C. The online service is only for cases where no changes to the log book details are required.
• Keep a copy of your completed V62 form and proof of postage when you send it to the DVLA, as the process can take several weeks.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including fees and postal addresses, always consult the official DVLA guidance on applying for a vehicle registration certificate.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-for-a-vehicle-registration-certificate. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.

Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.