Do You Get a V5 with a Leased Car?

If you’re considering leasing a car, you might be wondering about the V5C registration document - commonly referred to as the V5 or logbook. In this blog, we’ll explain what a V5C is, its role in car ownership, and what you need to know as a car lessee. We’ll also cover important FAQs, such as changing your address on a V5C, getting a replacement, and transferring ownership. Let’s dive in!

What Is a V5C Document?

The V5C document, issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), is the official record of a vehicle’s registered keeper. It contains details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, and colour, as well as the name and address of the registered keeper. The V5C proves that the vehicle is registered with the DVLA but does not indicate legal ownership.

When leasing a car, the V5C will be held by the finance company, as they are the vehicle’s registered keeper. While you’ll have the right to use the car, the finance company retains ownership throughout the lease term.

Do Lessees Receive a V5C with a Leased Car?

No, as the registered keeper is the leasing company, the V5C document stays with them. This arrangement is standard for both personal and business car leases. If you need specific details from the V5C, you can contact your leasing provider, who may be able to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions About the V5C

How Do I Change the Address on My V5C?

If you’ve moved house, it’s essential to update the address on your V5C to avoid fines or missing important correspondence. For leased cars, this process must be handled by the finance company, as they hold the V5C. Contact your leasing provider and provide your updated address details; they will liaise with the DVLA to make the change.

What Should I Do If I’ve Lost My V5C?

If you’ve lost your V5C document, the process for obtaining a replacement depends on whether you own or lease the car. For leased cars, inform your leasing provider immediately. They will arrange for a replacement through the DVLA. For privately owned vehicles, you can apply for a replacement yourself using the DVLA’s online service.

How Do I Apply for a V5C Document?

If your vehicle has never been registered before (e.g., it’s brand new), the dealership or leasing company will typically handle the initial registration. If you’ve purchased a used car and need to register it in your name, you’ll need to complete the relevant section of the V5C and send it to the DVLA.

Can I Sell a Car Without a V5C?

Selling a car without a V5C can complicate the process but isn’t impossible. If you’re the vehicle owner and have misplaced the V5C, you should apply for a replacement before selling the car. Buyers are often hesitant to proceed without the logbook, as it’s a key document that proves the car’s history and registration. For leased vehicles, you cannot sell the car, as it remains the property of the leasing company.

How Do I Transfer or Change Ownership of a Car Using a V5C?

When transferring ownership of a car, both the buyer and seller need to fill out the relevant sections of the V5C. The seller must then notify the DVLA of the change, either online or by posting the completed document. For leased cars, ownership cannot be transferred, as the leasing company retains legal ownership. If you’re ending your lease, the vehicle will be returned to the finance provider.

Understanding the V5C Document When Leasing a Car

The V5C document plays a key role in car leasing, even though you, as the lessee, won’t receive it. Instead, your leasing company takes care of all V5C-related matters, including vehicle registration and ownership paperwork. This means you can enjoy the benefits of your leased car without worrying about administrative tasks.

Have questions about how car leasing works, the latest leasing deals, or the role of the V5C? Get in touch with our expert team today. We’re here to make leasing a car straightforward and stress-free for you!