How to change your car’s address when you move home
Moving home is an exciting time, especially when you’re settling into a brand-new Persimmon property. But alongside the big tasks like packing and redirecting your post, there are smaller admin jobs that are just as important, like updating your car’s address with the DVLA.
If you’re wondering how to change the address on your V5C log book, update your vehicle registration, or notify the DVLA of a change of address, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to keep your car details up to date when you move.
Why you need to update your car’s address
When you move, your car’s registered address must be updated with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). This ensures:
- You receive your vehicle tax reminders and MOT notices
- Your insurance remains valid
- You avoid fines or penalties for incorrect registration details
Whether you’re changing the address on your V5C log book, updating your car registration, or notifying the DVLA online, it’s a legal requirement to keep your vehicle details current.
What is the V5C log book?
The V5C, also known as the log book, is the official document that shows who is responsible for a vehicle. It includes:
- The registered keeper’s name and address
- Vehicle details (make, model, colour, engine size)
- The date the vehicle was registered
If you’ve moved house, you’ll need to change the address on your V5C to reflect your new home.
Online via the DVLA website
This is the quickest and easiest method. You’ll need:
- Your V5C document
- Your new address
Visit the DVLA’s change of address page and follow the instructions. You’ll receive a new V5C in the post within 5 working days.
By post
If you prefer, you can update your address by post:
- Fill in the relevant section of your V5C log book
- Send it to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA
You’ll receive your updated log book within 4 weeks.
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What if you’ve lost your V5C?
If you’ve misplaced your log book, you’ll need to apply for a replacement before you can change your address. You can do this online or by calling the DVLA. There’s a £25 fee for a replacement V5C.
Do you need to update your driving licence too?
Yes! Your driving licence must also show your current address. You can update it online for free via the DVLA website.
What happens if you don’t update your car’s address?
If you don’t update your car’s address with the DVLA after moving home, you could face a range of issues, from missing important vehicle tax and MOT reminders to risking fines or prosecution for having incorrect registration details.
Your car insurance may also be invalid if your address doesn’t match your policy, which could leave you unprotected in the event of a claim. Selling your car could become more complicated too, as an outdated V5C log book can delay the transfer of ownership. In some cases, you might even be held responsible for fines or penalties incurred at your old address, just because your vehicle is still registered there.
What about car tax and insurance?
Once your address is updated with the DVLA, your car tax and MOT reminders will be sent to your new home. But don’t forget to:
- Notify your car insurance provider
- Update your breakdown cover
- Change your address with any finance or leasing companies
Final checklist for updating your vehicle address
Here’s a quick checklist to help you stay on track:
✅ Update your V5C log book online or by post
✅ Change your driving licence address
✅ Notify your car insurance provider
✅ Update your breakdown cover
✅ Inform any finance or leasing companies
✅ Check your MOT and tax reminders are going to the right place
Common questions about changing your car’s address
If you’re moving for a short time (e.g. university or temporary work), it’s still best to update your address to avoid missing important documents.
Yes, the DVLA will send you a new V5C log book with your updated address.
You should update your details as soon as possible after moving to avoid fines or missed correspondence.
