New DVLA online system means drivers can now tax a car WITHOUT key documents including the log book

The DVLA has launched a new service to make taxing a car easier.

For the first time, the DVLA has linked its online registration service with its online licensing service.

This allows motorists to tax their vehicle even if they don’t have their V5C (log book) and vehicle tax reminder letter (V11).

Previously, drivers who’ve lost their log book or tax reminder letter have been faced with a headache when trying to tax their vehicle.

Making life easier for drivers, those who’ve lost key documents can now apply for a new V5C and tax their vehicle at the same time, as part of a new service which allows motorists to tax their vehicle even if they don’t have these documents to hand. 

Prior to the update, customers who had lost these documents would have had to wait up to five days for a replacement V5C to arrive, or phone DVLA’s Contact Centre to tax their vehicle.

The DVLA’s latest update – linking its online registration service with its online licensing service – should make it easier to tax a car.

Prior to the update customers who had lost these documents would have had to wait up to 5 days for a replacement V5C to arrive, or phone DVLA’s Contact Centre to tax their vehicle

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’.

This new system follows on from the DVLA’s launch of its driver and vehicles account in 2023, which enables motorists to view and manage their driver and vehicle details in one place.

The drivers and vehicles account allows people to use digital services including receiving reminders via text or email or renewing a photocard driving licence and view MOT notices.

How does the new online tax registration work?

Motorists will need to visit the DVLA website.

Motorists who have lost both their V5C and V11 documents can tax their vehicle using the enhanced providing they are the registered keeper and there are no changes to the keeper details (name or address).

Motorists will need to apply for a new V5C to be able to tax their vehicle using the service.

Once they have applied, they will be able to tax immediately and won’t have to wait for the V5C to arrive in the post.