Lost your V5C: When do you need a V62 form?

If you’ve lost your V5C vehicle registration certificate (also known as the log book), you might wonder when you need to use the DVLA’s V62 form to apply for a replacement. Whether you need to use form V62 depends on if you need to update any details or if you are already the registered keeper of the vehicle.

What is form V62?

Form V62 is the official paper application used to request a vehicle registration certificate (V5C) from the DVLA by post. It is sometimes called an application for a vehicle registration certificate.

When should you use the V62 form?

• If you do not have a V5C for your vehicle – for example, if you bought a vehicle but never received a log book, or if your vehicle was previously registered abroad and you are now registering it in Great Britain.
• If you need to change any of the details on the V5C – such as correcting vehicle information or keeper details. The online replacement service cannot be used if you want to update information.
• If you are not yet registered as the keeper of the vehicle and need to apply for a V5C in your name.
• If your original V5C was lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed and you cannot use the online or phone service because you need to update details or are not the registered keeper.

When can you replace your V5C without using form V62?

If you have simply lost your V5C but all the details remain the same and you are the registered keeper, you can apply for a replacement log book online or by phone. This is usually quicker and allows you to tax your vehicle at the same time.

However, if any details have changed or you cannot confirm your registered keeper status, you must use the V62 paper form and send it by post along with any applicable fee.

Practical example

Imagine you bought a used car and lost the V5C that the previous owner gave you. If you are now the registered keeper and the details on the V5C have not changed, you can apply online or by phone for a replacement. But if you want to update your address or correct vehicle details, or if you never received a V5C at all, you will need to complete form V62 and post it to the DVLA.

Important points to remember

• The V62 form must be completed on paper and posted; it cannot be submitted online or by email.
• You may have to pay a fee when applying for a replacement V5C using the online or phone service, usually £25 if you do not receive your V5C within 6 weeks and have not contacted the DVLA.
• You do not need to wait for a new V5C to tax your vehicle if you have other valid proof of registration or use the online services.
• If your vehicle is registered outside Great Britain (including the Channel Islands or Isle of Man), different rules apply, and you cannot use the V62 form.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official DVLA guidance or the GOV.UK website.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-for-a-vehicle-registration-certificate. Topic-specific official guidance. 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.