5-minute guide

Scrapping the car of someone who has died

Dealing with a relative’s car is often one of many jobs after a death. If the car is not needed, scrapping it is straightforward once you know who can arrange it and what paperwork helps.

Who can arrange it

Usually the executor named in the will, or the administrator of the estate if there is no will. The buyer may ask to see a copy of the death certificate and something showing your role.

Telling the DVLA

The government’s Tell Us Once service can notify the DVLA and other departments of the death. When the car is scrapped, the DVLA must also be told it has gone to an ATF.

Tax and insurance

Any refund of vehicle tax goes to the estate. The insurance policy may end on the policyholder’s death; check with the insurer before anyone drives the car.

If the car is in a care home car park or at a relative’s house

Give the buyer the postcode of wherever the car is, and agree access with whoever looks after the property.

In short

The executor or administrator can arrange it
Have the V5C and death certificate if possible
Tell Us Once can notify the DVLA
Any tax refund goes to the estate
Cancel insurance only once the car has gone

Facts last compared with GOV.UK: October 2026.

FAQs

Two more questions

The follow-ups people usually have after reading this.

Can a family member who is not the executor arrange it?

Possibly, with the executor's written agreement. Tell the buyer at the start.

There is no V5C. Can it still be scrapped?

Usually, with suitable proof. Our guide to scrapping without a V5C explains more.

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