When you scrap your car you’ll usually need your V5C logbook? proof of ID and a receipt or Certificate of Destruction from the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). The V5C proves you’re the legal keeper, and the CoD shows the DVLA that the car has been recycled properly and you’re no longer responsible for it.

See our ‘What documents do I need to scrap my car? full information page

To get the best price when you scrap your car, keep it as complete as possible, be honest about its condition, compare offers from multiple scrap buyers and make sure you only deal with an Authorised Treatment Facility. Removing parts, hiding faults or accepting the first offer can all reduce what you’re paid.

How to scrap a car for the most money.

You don’t always have to declare SORN before scrapping, but you must make sure the DVLA knows your car is off the road or has been scrapped. In many cases the DVLA record is updated when the ATF issues a Certificate of Destruction, but if the car is off the road for a while first, putting it on SORN can stop you paying unnecessary tax and insurance.

Do I need to SORN my car before I scrap it?

When you scrap your car through an Authorised Treatment Facility, they’ll collect or receive the vehicle, de-pollute it by safely removing fluids and hazardous parts, strip any reusable components and then recycle the remaining metal. Once the car has been processed they’ll issue a Certificate of Destruction and the DVLA will update their records and refund any unused road tax.

Find out how easy it is to scrap your car.

Yes, you can scrap a car without the V5C log book – it’s not illegal – but it can make the process a bit more awkward. You’ll need to prove your identity and ownership, and you must still tell the DVLA in writing that you’ve sold the car for scrap so they can stop taxing it and remove you as the keeper.

Click below to see our full page information;

Can I scrap my car without a V5C (log book)?