When should you update your V5C

Monday 9th February 2026

Your vehicle registration certificate is an important legal document. All drivers need to be aware of the information it contains and understand what it’s used for, as keeping it up to date is a legal requirement. Our guide explains what you need to know about your vehicle registration certificate and when it needs updating. 

What is your Vehicle Registration Certificate? 

Your Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) is a document issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). It contains important information about the vehicle and the person registered as its keeper. 

You need your V5C to tax your vehicle and to obtain an MOT. It also helps identify the registered keeper (although it is not proof of ownership) during the buying and selling process, and it provides a record of the vehicle’s history.  

Are V5C and Vehicle registration certificate the same thing? 

Yes. A V5C and a Vehicle Registration Certificate refer to the same document. However, most people refer to it simply as a logbook. 

When do you need to update your V5C 

You must update your V5C whenever any details about the vehicle or its registered keeper change. Common examples include: 

Change of name or address 

The most common reason to update your V5C is if you move house. The DVLA need your current address if they need to contact you.  

You must also update it if you change your name, whether through marriage or deed poll. You can change your address easily online for free unless you’re updating other personal details at the same time. In this instance you’ll need to provide supporting documents.  

Buying, selling, scrapping or giving a vehicle away as a gift 

A change in ownership is the other most common reason for needing to update your V5C. If you sell, scrap or give your vehicle away notify the DVLA immediately. This is also the case if your car is scrapped or written off.  

The V5C is for the car, not the person, so when you buy a new car, you need to contact the DVLA to register the car with your details.  

Change of vehicle details 

Minor cosmetic changes do not need to be declared, but major modifications do. These include: 

• Colour changes – full resprays or vinyl wraps. If using more than one colour, the primary colour must be listed. 

• Engine changes – including a full engine replacement, a change in engine number, or a new engine capacity (CC). 

• Fuel type changes – although uncommon, switching fuel type affects tax and emissions records. 

• Vehicle function – common with van conversions (e.g., van to campervan or van to minibus). You must inform the DVLA. 

• Historic vehicle status – vehicles over 40 years old that have not been substantially modified in the last 30 years may qualify. This reduces road tax to zero, and once you tax the vehicle, the DVLA updates the V5C automatically.

Who is legally responsible for updating your V5C? 

In the UK, the registered keeper is responsible for keeping the V5C up to date. But what does “registered keeper” mean? 

In practice, the registered keeper is the person named on the V5C (this is not always the person who owns the vehicle). For example, if you drive a company car or have a financed vehicle, the business or finance provider may own it, but you may be listed as the registered keeper. 

If you car?share, the registered keeper should be the person who uses the vehicle most often. You do not need to tell the DVLA when adding a named driver, but you must inform your insurance provider. 

What happens if you don’t update your V5C? 

Not keeping your V5C up to date can result in a costly fine of up to £1,000. It can also mean that you stay legally responsible for a car that you no longer own. If you don’t update the DVLA but go on to sell or scrap your car, you can be chased for unpaid tax and other fines.  

Formula One Autocentres, your one-stop service for automotive care 

Choosing a local garage you can depend on is just as important as keeping your records up to date. You can easily check when you're MOT is due with the Formula One Autocentres MOT check before booking your annual service. 

 Here at Formula One Autocentres, we have over 50 years’ experience at keeping vehicles roadworthy. Whatever your automotive needs, find your nearest Formula One Autocentres branch today.