From 4th September 2011, when a vehicle is taxed or decla
red off the road (SORN), the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) will automatically send the registered keeper a new red V5C (Vehicle Registration Certificate) if they haven’t already been issued with one. Registered keepers will be advised to destroy their blue V5C and to use the new document in any future dealings with DVLA or the Post Office.
The DVLA introduced a new red V5C in August 2010. The new red V5C is more secure, customer friendly and highlights the need for buyers to check the legitimacy of the vehicle presented for sale. More information can be found at www.direct.gov.uk/buyerbeware.
Questions on the changes
Q. Why have I been sent a new V5C?
A. The DVLA are replacing all existing blue V5Cs. The new certificate is being introduced following the theft of a number of blank blue V5Cs. The aim is to reduce the risks to motorists of buying a stolen or cloned vehicle. For tips and advice go to www.direct.gov.uk/buyerbeware
Q. What do I do with my old blue V5C?
A. You must destroy the blue V5C for this vehicle now. Do not return it to DVLA. You must use the new red V5C in future dealings with DVLA or the Post Office.
Q. What if I have more than one vehicle and I have not received a new red V5C for all my vehicles?
A. If you have more than one vehicle and have not yet received a new red V5C for each of them, there is no need to contact DVLA. They will issue a new red V5C for all vehicles by November 2012. In the meantime, if you need to tell the DVLA about any changes to your vehicle details or need to sell the vehicle and don’t have a new red V5C, fill in the changes on your existing blue V5C and send it to DVLA. A new red V5C will then be issued.
Q. What if I no longer have the vehicle?
A. If you don’t have the vehicle any more and haven’t told DVLA, fill in the relevant sections on the new red V5C and return it to them. Once they know about these changes, you should receive an acknowledgement letter within four weeks to confirm you are no longer the registered keeper.
For general information about the V5C go to: www.direct.gov.uk/v5c or phone 0300 123 1344.
Find out about DVLA’s online services at: www.direct.gov.uk/onlinemotoringservices
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