Mistake on Your V62 Form? Here's What to Do

Filling in a V62 form by hand can be nerve-wracking — it's one of those official documents where you worry that a single slip of the pen will cause the whole thing to be rejected. The good news is that not every mistake is fatal. The bad news is that some errors will get your application returned, costing you weeks of waiting. This guide explains exactly what DVLA accepts, what to do if you realise you've made a mistake, and how to avoid the whole headache in the first place.

Which mistakes actually matter?

The V62 form asks for information that DVLA will check against its own records — the vehicle registration number, make, model, colour, and your personal details. If the information you write doesn't match what DVLA holds on file, your application may be delayed or returned.

Minor cosmetic issues — a slightly untidy letter, a small ink smudge that doesn't obscure anything — are unlikely to cause problems. What does cause problems is incorrect information, missing sections, or anything that makes the form illegible.

Correcting a mistake before you send

If you spot an error before posting the form, the safest option is always to get a fresh V62 and start again. DVLA does not officially endorse crossing out and rewriting on the form — any correction can raise questions at the processing stage, and it's not worth the risk of having your application returned after a four-to-six-week wait.

Do not use correction fluid (Tipp-Ex or similar) on a V62 form. Any form with fluid applied over text is very likely to be rejected outright. If you've made a mistake and you have correction fluid on the form, treat it as unusable and get a replacement copy.

What if you've already sent the form?

If you've posted the V62 and then realised there's an error, unfortunately you cannot recall the application. Your options depend on how significant the mistake is:

• Minor error — DVLA may process it anyway. Wait four to six weeks. If you don't receive your V5C, contact DVLA on 0300 790 6802.
• Significant error (wrong registration, wrong name) — Your application may be returned with a letter explaining the problem. You'll then need to resubmit with a corrected form and a new £25 fee cheque or postal order.
• Wrong address provided — Contact DVLA as soon as possible on 0300 790 6802 and explain the situation. They may be able to update the address if the V5C hasn't been issued yet.

Most common V62 mistakes

Based on the types of issues that lead to applications being returned, the most frequent errors people make on the V62 are:

• Incorrect registration number — Transposing two characters (e.g. writing "AB21 XZY" instead of "AB21 XYZ") is very easy to do and will cause a mismatch.
• Wrong previous postcode — The form asks for the postcode of the previous registered keeper. If you don't know it, you should leave it blank rather than guess.
• Missing signature — The form must be signed in Section 8. An unsigned V62 will be returned.
• No payment — The DVLA fee is £25, payable by cheque or postal order made out to "DVLA, Swansea". Missing or incorrect payment means your application won't be processed.
• Wrong fee amount — Always check the current fee at GOV.UK before sending — it has been £25 for several years but may change.
• Using the wrong form — The V62 is specifically for replacement V5C logbooks. If you're trying to register a new keeper, you need a different process entirely.

Will DVLA reject my application?

DVLA tends to return rather than outright reject applications — meaning you'll get the form back with a letter explaining what needs to be corrected, and you can resubmit. However, the £25 fee is not automatically refunded. If DVLA determines the application cannot be processed and the error is significant, you may need to pay again when you resubmit.

There's no official appeals process for rejected V62 applications — DVLA's decision on whether a form is acceptable is final. The best approach is to get it right first time.

The easier alternative

If you're concerned about making mistakes on the paper form, CarForms.co.uk offers a fully online service for obtaining a replacement V5C. Rather than filling in a physical V62, you complete a straightforward online form — our team checks the details and submits the application correctly on your behalf.

There's no risk of ink mistakes, missing sections, or illegible handwriting. Our Complete Service costs £49.95, which includes the £25 DVLA fee, and the application is processed quickly with regular updates by email. It's particularly useful if you've been burned by a previous postal application or simply don't want the uncertainty of the paper route.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use correction fluid on a V62 form?

No. Do not use Tipp-Ex or any correction fluid. A form with correction fluid is almost certain to be rejected. Get a fresh copy from your nearest Post Office.

Can I cross out a mistake and write the correct information next to it?

DVLA does not formally allow corrections on V62 forms. While a neatly crossed-out correction might be accepted in some cases, there's no guarantee. To be safe, always start with a fresh form.

What if I don't know the previous postcode?

Leave that field blank. Do not guess — entering a wrong postcode is worse than leaving it empty, as it may trigger a mismatch with DVLA records.

How long does a resubmitted V62 take?

The same as a normal application — four to six weeks by post. There's no priority processing available for corrections.

Will I get my £25 back if my application is rejected?

Not automatically. If DVLA cannot process your application, you will usually need to submit a fresh application with a new £25 payment. Contact DVLA directly if you believe the rejection was in error.

Can I apply online to avoid the paper form altogether?

DVLA does not offer a direct online V62 application. However, CarForms.co.uk provides an online service where we handle the paper process on your behalf, removing the risk of form errors entirely.