What Is a Vehicle Logbook?
A vehicle logbook is a document used to keep records of every detail about a vehicle. It applies to both private and commercial vehicles. The recorded details include the brand of the vehicle, the engine number, the chassis number, the year it was bought, every insurance information, fuel reports, activity reports, and other expenditures carried out on the vehicle.
The vehicle logbook is also regarded as a V5C. It is always requested by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In essence, the logbook acts as a connection between a vehicle and its owner based on who maintains it. The logbook is a hard copy of what is in the licensing agency’s directory. A vehicle log is necessary for every automobile owner.
Importance of a Vehicle Logbook
As earlier stated, a vehicle logbook is vital for every car owner. This section outlines the importance of having a vehicle logbook.
Vehicle Activity Summary
The vehicle logbook aids in revealing details of every activity that happens with the vehicle. Little details like a change of vehicle paint, tire replacements, and engine replacement are added to the logbook. Also, the DVLA must receive reports about each change.
Log of Expenditures Record
Vehicle owners can comfortably input every expense they make on their vehicles. From servicing to component replacement and other activities like battery change, wheel alignment, field receipts, and others. These reports are necessary for filing for tax removals or repayments.
Hint on Purchase
A vehicle’s logbook hints at details about the vehicle when you want to purchase it. It tells you the health status of the vehicle and its efficiency. This information will let you know if the vehicle is worth buying or not. Other information like its routes, fuel quality, gas stations, expected expenditures, and others are included in its logbook.
Your Legitimacy on Resale
Your vehicle’s logbook serves as proof of your legitimacy over the vehicle. In other words, it proves to your buyer that you have a license to sell the vehicle and that what you are selling is authentic.
How to Obtain a Vehicle Logbook?
When you purchase a vehicle, you will be given a logbook. For new cars, your car dealer will register the car on your behalf at the department of motor vehicles or a private agency like Swifttags. After the registration, you will be given your logbook within six weeks.
If your dealer does not register it for you, you can choose to register the car by yourself online at Swifttags. Swifttags will aid you in registering your vehicle with ease. Usually, fairly used vehicles are registered by the sellers.
How to Know an Original Logbook?
The DVLA often advises that individuals should not buy a vehicle if it does not have a logbook. As a result, some sellers manipulate or create fake logbooks.
Follow these steps to know if a logbook is original or fake.
- Check if the logbook has the DVLA watermark. You can do this by holding up the logbook against a source of light
- Ensure that the actual name of the seller is written on the “registered keeper” section.
- Ensure that the address written in the logbook is the same as that of the seller.
- Compare the VIN and engine number on the logbook with that of the vehicle.
How to Replace a V5C?
If your V5C is missing, you must request a new document with the DVLA. However, you will pay a token for the services.
Can I Discard My Vehicle Logbook?
As long as you have your vehicle, your V5C should remain with you. But if you dispose of or sell the auto and have informed the DVLA, you can do away with your logbook.
Vehicle Registration with Swifttags
You must register your vehicle for you to obtain your vehicle logbook. Listed below are steps to registering your vehicle on Swifttags.
- Submit your vehicle information like the vehicle name, number plate, and other necessary details.
- Submit your data like your full name, SSN, birth month, day, year, and other required information.
- Review your application and pay.
Driver’s License Florida
Even if you have a logbook and you do not get a driver’s license, you will not be allowed to drive your car. On Swifttags, you can obtain a new license or replace the one you had.
Getting a New Driver’s License
If you want to obtain a new driver’s license in Florida, you need to provide the following information:
- Evidence of your identity.
- Proof of your place of abode.
- Evidence of fulfillment of a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education Course or authorization from a different region.
- Evidence of SSN
Replacing Your Driver’s License
If you want to replace your driver’s license online, you must submit every required detail correctly. The details include your name, birth date, social security number (SSN), license permit number, and number plate.
After submitting the details correctly on Swifttags, your records will be checked, and your application will be processed.
Importantly, note that if you previously replaced your license online, you will have to replace it now at the office with some documents. The documents are listed below.
- A valid means of identification that bears your details. You can use your passport or certificate of birth.
- A means of identification that carries your SSN. You can use your social security card, paycheck, W-2 form, or SSA 1099).
- Evidence of your place of residence. You can use your voter’s card, W-2 form, loan document, or health card
