If you have lost your car’s documents, it can be a major hassle trying to get everything sorted out. However, there are ways to minimize the damage and make the process as painless as possible.

Here are six things that you can do to manage if you’ve lost your car documents.

Get in touch with the DVLA

If you have lost your car registration document, you will need to contact the DVLA as soon as possible. This is especially true if you cannot find the vehicle’s certificate of ownership (title) as well. The DVLA will be able to help you replace these documents so that you can continue to drive your car legally.

On the other hand, if you have lost your car tax disc, you can simply order a replacement from the DVLA. However, you will need to have your vehicle registration number on hand to do this.

Inform your insurance company

As soon as you realize that you have lost your car documents or the car insurance ones, you will need to inform your insurance company. Your insurer will then be able to update their records and ensure that you are still covered in the event of an accident.

You will need to provide them with your car registration number, as well as the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Once you have done this, your insurer will be able to send you a new insurance certificate.

However, do keep in mind that you may have to pay a fee for the replacement document.

Report the loss to the police

If you have lost your car documents and you suspect that they have been stolen, you will need to report the incident to the police. This is important as it will help to deter thieves from targeting other vehicles. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that the police are aware of the situation.

When making a report, be sure to have the following information on hand:

• Your car registration number

• The make, model, and year of your vehicle

• The date and time when the documents were lost or stolen

• A description of the documents (if possible)

Obtain the replacement documents

Once you have reported the loss of your car documents to the relevant authorities, you will need to obtain the necessary replacement documents. While you wait for the new documents, you can use a temporary document or an electronic version of the document.

Temporary documents are available from the DVLA and can be used for 21 days. These documents are free of charge.

If you cannot obtain a temporary document, you can use an electronic version of the document. This can be done by downloading the document from the DVLA website or by using the DVLA app.

For car registration documents, you will need to fill out a V5C form and send it to the DVLA. For car insurance documents, you can request a replacement from your insurer.

Be sure to keep track of the replacement documents so that you can update the authorities when they are received.

Update your details with the DVLA

If you have moved house or changed your name, you will need to update your details with the DVLA. This is important as it ensures that your car documents are up-to-date and accurate.

To do this, you will need to fill out a Change of Address form and send it to the DVLA. You will also need to provide proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

If you have changed your name, you will need to fill out a V62 form and send it to the DVLA. You will also need to provide proof of your new names, such as a marriage certificate or deed poll.

How long do I need to keep my car documents?

You will need to keep your car documents for as long as you own the vehicle. This is because you will need to provide the documents when selling or transferring ownership of the vehicle.

You should also keep your car insurance documents safe as they can be used as proof of your coverage in the event of an accident.

On the other hand, new documents you can expect to get from the DVLA will have an expiry date. Car tax discs generally last for 10 years, while car registration documents are valid for as long as you own the vehicle.

While it can be a hassle to replace lost car documents, there are a few steps that you can take to minimize the damage. By reporting the loss to the police and obtaining replacement documents, you will be able to continue driving legally.

Be sure to update your details with the DVLA so that your records are up-to-date.

Finally, remember to keep track of your replacement documents so that you can update the authorities when they are received.