If you’ve decided it’s time to scrap your car—whether it failed its MOT, was written off in an accident, or has simply reached the end of its life—there are a few important steps to follow. Proper documentation is key to ensuring a smooth process and avoiding any issues later on. Having the right paperwork to hand not only helps you comply with legal requirements but also allows for a hassle free transaction with the scrap yard. Keep reading to find out which documents you need for a smooth experience!
Documents you’ll need to successfully scrap your car
When scrapping a vehicle, there are specific documents you must provide to ensure the process is legal and environmentally responsible. These requirements help prevent unnecessary environmental damage, as many car parts, if not disposed of properly, can pose serious environmental risks. Only Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs) are legally permitted to scrap vehicles. These facilities are specially equipped to safely manage hazardous materials like oil and batteries, ensuring that your vehicle is disposed of responsibly and in an environmentally friendly manner. Let’s explore the documents you will need to responsibly scrap your car:
Vehicle registration document
Also referred to as a V5C, this vehicle registration document is the most important document required to scrap your car. It confirms who the registered keeper of the vehicle is and prevents an unauthorised sale of your vehicle.
Log book
A log book, also known as the V5C registration document, refers to the same official record of vehicle ownership. If you’re asked to bring your log book or V5C, don’t worry—they’re the same thing, and either one will suffice!
V5C/3
This is the yellow slip from your vehicle registration document that is used to inform the DVLA that you no longer own the vehicle. This must be presented when looking to scrap your car, if for any reason your car is not scrapped straight away, you could be liable for any future penalties it may receive.
Personal identification and proof of address
It is a legal requirement to present a form of ID such as a driving licence or passport when scrapping a car, whether you have a V5C document or not. You must also prove your address to ensure that you are in line with the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.
This legislation was designed to hinder auto-related crime and dishonest dealings happening at scrap yards.
Can I scrap my car without a V5C logbook?
If you have your V5C/2 registration document that proves your ownership of the vehicle, you can still scrap your car without a V5C logbook. If you don’t have a V5C or V5C/2 slip, you can contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to get a copy.
The V5C logbook is not required if you want to scrap a vehicle that is out of date or does not have a current MOT. On top of this, if your car has been declared as ‘off the road’ or SORN then you do not require a V5C logbook to scrap it.
Can I scrap a car that isn’t in my name?
Yes, but only if you have the documents to demonstrate that you have the owners permission to scrap the vehicle. The documents needed are to prove to the scrap collector that the vehicle hasn’t been stolen. They include:
- The relevant section of the V5C document – completed and signed by the owner
- A letter from the owner granting you permission to sell the car for scraps
- Photo ID for the owner
- A utility bill for the owner
How do I declare that my car has been scrapped?
To let the DVLA know that your car has been scrapped, all you need to do is fill in the yellow section in the V5 logbook and send it to them. If you don’t have a V5 certificate, you can write to them by post and include your details along with your car’s make, model and registration. The name, address and date of the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) you used will also need to be detailed. You will then receive a Certificate of Destruction within seven days of your car being scrapped from the ATF.
Get in touch
Our scrap vehicle recycling service is just one of the many recycling solutions we provide. At both out Trowbridge and Warminster Authorised Treatment Facilities sites (ATFs), vehicles are carefully dismantled and recycled in an environmentally responsible manner. Get in touch to find out how we can help with your recycling needs today!
