What happens when your car is scrapped?

Know where your car is going and what paperwork to expect. Before handover, ask who will handle disposal and how the outcome will be confirmed.

Authorised treatment facilities

In the UK, end-of-life vehicles must be scrapped at an authorised treatment facility, often called an ATF. Use the government ATF finder to check a facility.

What is a Certificate of Destruction?

For a car completely scrapped by an ATF, GOV.UK says a Certificate of Destruction should be provided within seven days. A vehicle repaired and resold does not receive one. Confirm which outcome applies and keep the paperwork.

Payment for a scrapped vehicle

Cash payment for vehicles scrapped in England and Wales is prohibited. Payment must be by bank transfer or cheque. Agree the method and timing before handing over your vehicle.

Your handover questions

• Who is collecting the vehicle, and where will it go?
• Is it being scrapped or assessed for another outcome?
• Who supplies the paperwork, and when should it arrive?
• What do I need to do about DVLA notification?

Read the official GOV.UK disposal guidance and our collection checklist.

The journeys may be over, but the memories come home with you.