Certificate of Destruction explained

The Certificate of Destruction is the single most important piece of paper when you scrap a car. It's your proof the car is gone for good — and your protection against anything coming back on you. Here's what it is and why it matters.

What it is

A Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is the official confirmation that a vehicle has been permanently destroyed at an Authorised Treatment Facility and can never legally return to the road. It's issued under the End-of-Life Vehicle regulations, and at the same time the facility notifies the DVLA that the car has been scrapped.

Why it protects you

Once a CoD is issued and the DVLA is notified, the car is no longer your legal responsibility. Without one, the vehicle can stay registered in your name — which means you could keep getting tax reminders, penalty charges or even liability if someone misuses the car or its plates. The CoD is what closes that door.

Who can issue one

Only a SEPA-licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) can issue a valid Certificate of Destruction in Scotland. A general scrap dealer or an unlicensed operator cannot — which is exactly why it's worth checking the yard is a licensed ATF before you hand the car over.

• Issued only by a SEPA-licensed ATF
• Confirms the car is permanently destroyed
• Sent alongside the DVLA notification
• Keep it with your records

When you'll get it

You should receive your CoD shortly after the car is collected and processed — typically within a few days. We issue one for every vehicle we take, whether it's broken for parts or scrapped whole.

FAQs