What a Certificate of Destruction is
The CoD comes from the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulations 2003 regime, which authorises only permitted ATFs to take in and depollute end-of-life vehicles. Brasenoze's yard holds ATF permit JP3129MP, listed on the Environment Agency's public register.
It records the vehicle, the date it was received and the ATF that destroyed it, so that you can show it was scrapped and did not go back on the road.
Why you want one
Without proof, a car recorded in your name can still be linked to you if it is later abandoned, used unlawfully or generates parking and camera penalties. The CoD is your evidence that you disposed of it properly, and insurers and councils commonly ask for it.
CoD versus what an unlicensed dealer gives you
A dealer without an ATF permit cannot issue a CoD, however good the offer. Documents with names such as 'certificate of disposal' are not the CoD issued by an ATF. If a buyer cannot show you a permit number you can look up, do not hand over the car.
How to check an ATF is genuine
Ask for the permit number and search it on the Environment Agency's public register. Brasenoze's is JP3129MP. A genuine ATF will give it straight away.
What you still have to do yourself
The CoD does not replace your duty to tell DVLA. Tell DVLA you have taken the vehicle to an ATF, online with the 11-digit reference number from the V5C or by post to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD. When DVLA has your notification, any full months of vehicle tax left are refunded; if a refund cheque has not arrived within 8 weeks, contact DVLA.
How long it takes with us
We aim to issue the CoD within 7 days of the car reaching our yard. If you have not received it by then, call 07722 935042 with the registration.
Frequently asked questions
Does a CoD cost anything?
It should not. An ATF gives it to you as part of taking the vehicle. If a buyer wants to charge for it, be cautious and check their permit.
Is a Certificate of Disposal the same thing?
No. The CoD is issued by a permitted ATF. Other documents that dealers issue do not carry the same standing, so ask for a Certificate of Destruction and the ATF's permit number.
Do I still have to tell DVLA?
Yes. GOV.UK says the keeper must tell DVLA they have taken the vehicle to an ATF, and that you can be fined £1,000 if you do not.
What if I lose my CoD?
Call 07722 935042 with the registration and we will check our records for the vehicle we processed. We cannot give a time or a fee for duplicates here, so ask when you call.
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