Quick Answer
The V5C logbook is the official DVLA document that records a vehicle's registered keeper and key details like make, model, VIN and engine number. It proves who is responsible for the car — not necessarily who legally owns it — and is essential when buying, selling or taxing a vehicle.
What the V5C shows
- The registered keeper's name and address
- Vehicle make, model, colour and engine size
- The VIN and engine number
- Date of first registration and previous keeper count
Keeper vs owner
Importantly, the V5C shows the registered keeper — the person responsible for taxing and running the car — which isn't always the legal owner (for example on a financed or company car). Never assume the person on the V5C owns the car outright.
Spotting a fake V5C
Genuine V5Cs have a watermark and a serial number. Check the serial number isn't in the range of known stolen blank logbooks (a history check can flag this), and be wary of a seller offering only a photocopy or a document where the details don't match the car.
Verify the V5C and vehicle details
Check whether a car's logbook and recorded details raise any flags — check any reg.
Verify the V5C and vehicle detailsFrequently Asked Questions
Does the V5C prove ownership?
No. It proves who the registered keeper is, not who legally owns the car. A financed car, for example, is legally owned by the lender until it's paid off.
What if there's no V5C?
Be very cautious. A missing V5C can indicate a stolen or cloned car. At the very least you'll face hassle re-registering it — treat a missing logbook as a serious warning sign.