If your car has been written off, you have a legal obligation to notify the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). Here’s how to do it.
Why do I need to notify the DVLA?
When your car is declared a total loss (also called a write-off), you must inform the DVLA so they can update their records. This ensures:
You’re no longer legally responsible for the vehicle
Road tax and MOT obligations are cancelled
You avoid potential fines
What do I need to do?
You can do this either online at https://www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle or through the post. You'll need your V5C registration certificate (log book) to do this.
Who do I put as the new owner?
E2E
Unity House
Dudley Road
Darlington
DL1 4GG
They should have made arrangements to collect your vehicle by now and will now become the legal owners of the vehicle to enable them salvage the vehicle. If they haven't arranged collection already they will be in contact shortly to arrange this.
What happens next?
The DVLA will update their records
You will receive confirmation by post or email if done online
If due, they may issue a refund for any unused vehicle tax
Make sure to keep any email confirmations for if you need it in the future.
Anything else I should do?
If your vehicle has been sold for salvage or disposed of, you should also inform the DVLA of the change of ownership or disposal using the appropriate section of the V5C.
For more details, visit the official DVLA website at www.gov.uk/dvla