Scrapping a car: the current UK process

Use the current GOV.UK process when disposing of an end-of-life vehicle. Procedures and document layouts can change, so follow the instructions on the live service and on the V5C you actually hold rather than relying on an old section number.

Choose the correct facility. GOV.UK says an end-of-life vehicle must be taken to an authorised treatment facility, often called an ATF. Check the facility that will receive the vehicle and agree what is being collected. A collection agent and the treatment facility may not be the same business.

Deal with the registration and V5C correctly. If you want to retain or transfer a personalised registration, complete that process before the vehicle is scrapped. Give or retain the V5C sections exactly as the current GOV.UK instructions and document require, and tell DVLA that the vehicle has been transferred or scrapped. Keep confirmation and collection records.

Understand the Certificate of Destruction. For eligible vehicles accepted for complete destruction, the ATF should issue a Certificate of Destruction within the period stated by GOV.UK. Not every vehicle or transaction produces that certificate, so check the official eligibility rules and contact DVLA if expected confirmation does not arrive.

Before collection. Remove personal property and only remove equipment or parts agreed with the facility. Record the vehicle, mileage, keys and paperwork handed over. Contact your insurer and any finance provider about the change; cancellation, refunds and outstanding obligations depend on their terms and must not be assumed.

No inspection can guarantee the remaining life of a used part. Confirm identity, condition evidence, fitting requirements and written supplier terms for the individual item.