How to Change Your Address on Your V5: Step-by-step Guide

V5C is a registration document that proves who is responsible for a vehicle. It includes information about the car, such as make, model, engine size, colour, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), along with details of the registered keeper. In case your address changes, it is a legal requirement to update it. 

Failing to do so could result in missed fines, important notices, or even the loss of your vehicle if it is stolen or subject to enforcement action.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of updating your address on your V5C and why it’s important to do so.

Why is Updating Your V5 Address Important?

Updating your V5 address is necessary for several reasons:

1. Legal Requirement: It is a legal obligation to keep your V5C information accurate. Driving with incorrect details could result in fines of up to £1,000.

2. Receive Important Documents: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) uses the address on your V5C to send crucial information, such as vehicle tax reminders, penalty notices, or any updates about your vehicle.

3. Avoid Penalties: If you are caught speeding or receive any other motoring fine, the notice will be sent to the address listed on your V5C. Failure to receive these notices can lead to further penalties or even legal action.

4. Sell or Buy a Car: When selling your vehicle, the V5C is used to transfer ownership. An outdated address could slow down this process or result in paperwork going to the wrong place.

Steps To Change Your Address On Your V5

1. Locate Your V5C Logbook

Before you can begin the process, you’ll need to have your V5C logbook on hand. This is a document that was sent to you when you registered your vehicle. If you’ve misplaced your V5C, you will need to apply for a replacement before proceeding. 

You can request a new logbook online through the DVLA’s website or by post, using form V62. It costs £25 to get a replacement logbook.

2. Fill Out Section 6 or Section 3

The V5C has several sections, but for a change of address, you’ll only need to complete Section 6 if you have the older version of the log book. For the new style log book with multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front cover, you’ll need to complete Section 3. 

• Enter your new address in the appropriate fields.

• Double-check for accuracy to ensure no errors.

If you're changing your name as well as your address, you can update both at the same time by providing your new details in Section 6 or Section 3 and attaching a letter explaining the name change (with any supporting documents, like a marriage certificate).

3. Sign the Declaration

Once you've completed Section 6/Section 3, sign the declaration at the bottom of the page. Your signature confirms that the information you’ve provided is accurate.

4. Send the V5 to the DVLA

Once you’ve updated Section 6 and signed the declaration, you need to send your V5C log book to the DVLA. The address is provided on the V5C itself.

You don't need to include a stamp if you’re posting it from within the UK. Simply drop it into a postbox, and you're good to go.

5. Wait for Your Updated V5

The DVLA will process your change of address and send you an updated V5. This typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks. If you don’t receive it within this timeframe, you can contact the DVLA for an update on your application.

6. Notify Other Relevant Agencies

While you’re updating your address with the DVLA, it’s also a good time to notify other organisations. For instance, you’ll need to update your driving licence and vehicle tax if applicable. The process for updating your driving licence address can be done online, and it’s free of charge.

Changing Your Address on Your V5 Online

You can change your address on your log book online on the DVLA website. The service is free and available from 7am to 8pm. You'll need:

• The registration number of your vehicle

• Your log book reference number

• Your new UK address

• To ensure that your vehicle doesn’t need taxing in the next 4 weeks

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Address?

If you forget or neglect to update your address on your V5C, it can lead to several issues. Not only could you miss important notices or penalties, but it can also result in:

• Fines: You could be fined up to £1,000 for failing to update your vehicle's details.

• Missed Renewal Notices: You might not receive vehicle tax or MOT reminders, leading to penalties.

• Increased Risk in Legal Proceedings: If your vehicle is involved in an incident and the authorities send legal paperwork to the wrong address, it could result in more serious legal complications.

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FAQs 

1. How much does it cost to update my address on the V5C?

Updating your address on the V5C logbook is completely free. The only cost you’ll incur is for a replacement V5C logbook if you’ve lost the original, which is £25.

2. Can I update my V5C address online?

No, the DVLA does not currently allow changes to the V5C logbook to be made online. The only way to update your address on the V5C is by posting the physical document to the DVLA.

3. What should I do if I lose my V5C logbook?

If you’ve lost your V5C logbook, you’ll need to apply for a replacement before you can change your address. You can do this online or by post, using form V62. The cost for a replacement is £25.

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