New system lets drivers renew car tax without a logbook
You can now renew your vehicle tax without your logbook
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has announced that drivers will be able to renew their vehicle tax without their logbook (V5C) and tax reminder letter (V11).
The move means that motorists can tax their vehicle while waiting for a duplicate logbook, which could be particularly useful when buying a new car.
Convenience for motorists
Previously, customers who had lost documents would have to wait up to five days for a replacement logbook to arrive in the post, or phone the DVLA’s Contact Centre to tax their vehicle.
The new digital service has been made possible by linking DVLA’s online registration service with their online licensing service.
Providing there are no changes to keeper’s details, drivers can use the DVLA website to pay for and have their new vehicle tax approved on the spot. A new logbook will still arrive in the post.
Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, said: “We are always looking for ways to improve our digital services to provide more convenience for motorists. This latest enhancement will enable customers who have misplaced or lost their V5C to get a replacement and tax their vehicle quickly and easily.”
Digital-first DVLA
The DVLA’s digital focus has gathered momentum since August 2023, when the Agency launched Driver and vehicles accounts, a way for drivers to check their penalty points, renew their photocard licence and manage their vehicles’ details in one place.
The accounts also allow users to choose to receive vehicle tax reminders by text or email, rather than by post and even change the photo on their licence photocard at any time.
By September 2024, more than two million motorists have signed up for a Driver and vehicles account.
The service is available to anyone with a driving licence issued in England, Scotland or Wales; or if you have a vehicle logbook in your name.
It only takes five minutes to set up an account, which you can do on the gov.uk website.
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