V62 Form at the Post Office: What You Need to Know

If you need to apply for a replacement V5C logbook, you may have heard that you need to go to the post office to pick up a V62 form. But is the post office still the only option in 2026 — and what exactly can it help you with? This guide explains everything you need to know about using the post office for a V62 application, and whether there's an easier way.

What is a V62 form?

The V62 is the DVLA application form used to request a replacement V5C vehicle registration certificate — commonly called a logbook. You might need one if your logbook has been lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. It's also used when you buy a used car and the seller doesn't have the V5C to pass on.

The DVLA charges £25 for a replacement V5C. Without the original logbook, a V62 is the standard way to apply for one.

What does the post office do with a V62?

Historically, the post office was the main place to pick up a physical V62 form. You could walk in, grab a form, fill it in at home, and either post it to the DVLA or hand it back in at the post office counter.

However, the role of the post office has changed significantly. As of 2026, not all post offices stock V62 forms, and the process of handing forms in at the counter has largely been replaced by direct postal applications to the DVLA in Swansea.

If you do visit a post office, their role is limited to:

• Providing a physical V62 form (where stocked)
• Helping you tax your vehicle at the same time (if you have the right documents)
• Accepting postal applications on behalf of the DVLA (at selected branches)

What to take to the post office

If you decide to apply via the post office, you'll need to bring:

• The completed V62 form — filled in with your vehicle details, including registration number and previous postcode (if known)
• Payment of £25 — payable by cash, card or cheque made out to DVLA
• Photo ID — a driving licence or passport to verify your identity
• Proof of address — if your address doesn't match DVLA records
• MOT certificate — useful but not always required

If you're applying by post directly (without visiting the post office counter), send the completed V62 and a cheque for £25 to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR.

Limitations of applying at the post office

While the post office is a familiar option, it comes with several practical drawbacks:

• Forms not always in stock — branches regularly run out of V62 forms
• Limited opening hours — many post offices only open weekdays
• Queues — especially on lunch breaks or near month-end
• No confirmation — there's no automated receipt or tracking once your form is submitted
• Longer processing time — postal applications can take several weeks

Online alternatives to the post office

In many cases, you don't need to visit the post office at all. There are two main alternatives:

1. DVLA online service

If the previous registered keeper still has the V5C, they can use the DVLA's online service to transfer ownership and the new keeper can request a replacement. However, if the logbook is genuinely lost or was never passed on, the online service won't help — you'll need a V62.

2. CarForms.co.uk

CarForms.co.uk lets you complete the entire V62 process online. You fill in your vehicle details on our website, we prepare the form, and we post it to the DVLA on your behalf — along with the required £25 DVLA fee. There's no need to visit the post office, source a form, or deal with the DVLA yourself.

Our Complete Service costs £49.95 (including the DVLA's own £25 fee), and most customers find it saves time and hassle compared to the traditional postal route.

Cost comparison

How long does it take?

Whether you apply via the post office or directly by post, the DVLA typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to process a V62 application and issue a new V5C. This timeline applies regardless of which route you use to submit the form — the DVLA handles processing at the same speed.

If you haven't received your V5C after 6 weeks, you can contact the DVLA directly on 0300 790 6802.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a V62 form at any post office?

Not necessarily. While post offices have traditionally stocked V62 forms, availability varies by branch. Call your local branch before visiting to save yourself a wasted journey.

Can the post office submit my V62 on my behalf?

Some branches will accept sealed DVLA applications at the counter and forward them via their internal mail service. However, this is not a standard service at all branches. It's usually simpler and more reliable to post it directly to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AR.

Do I need a V62 if I bought the car without a logbook?

Yes. If you've bought a car and the seller didn't have a V5C to pass on, a V62 is the correct form to request a replacement. You'll need to provide your vehicle's registration number and, ideally, the previous registered postcode.

Is the V62 form available to download online?

The DVLA does not offer a printable V62 form on their website for general use. The form must be obtained from a DVLA-approved source — such as a post office, or through services like CarForms.co.uk that handle the entire process for you.

What if my post office doesn't have a V62 form?

Use an online service like CarForms.co.uk — we hold the form on your behalf and submit it to the DVLA, so you never have to source a paper form yourself.