It’s Not Actually Called a Log Book Anymore
Well, the short answer is that you don’t — it’s not actually called a log-book in Ireland anymore. In fact, since 2004 what we used to call the log-book is now known as the Vehicle Registration Certificate.
It’s most likely a document that you haven’t actually looked at since you bought your current car, and you probably won’t look at it again until you come to sell the car. As with all rarely-used documents, it’s a pretty easy one to lose — house moves and home reorganisations are the common culprits for a lost log-book… sorry, Vehicle Registration Certificate.
Here’s How the Replacement Process Works
If you’ve lost your Vehicle Registration Certificate, the good news is that the process to get a replacement is straightforward. Here’s how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Get the Right Form (RF134)
So, to go about getting a replacement log book in Ireland, the first thing that you’ll need is a form, and specifically form RF134. It’s available from your local motor tax office, but it’s probably easier these days to just download it from motortax.ie.
Step 2: Get It Witnessed by the Gardaí
Once you’ve filled it in, you’ll need to get the form witnessed and stamped by your local Garda station, so be prepared and make sure you have photographic identity, proof of address, and your social services card. You may also be asked by the Garda on duty to provide some sort of proof of ownership of the vehicle, so as ever make sure you have all of your paperwork in order before heading down to the station.
Step 3: Send the Form Off with Payment
Once that’s all done, you’ll need to enclose a cheque or postal order for €12 (you’re asked not to send cash) and then that can be sent to your local motor tax office (again, check out motortax.ie to find out where your nearest branch is) where it will be processed.
Replacement Log Books for Older Vehicles (Pre-2004)
Incidentally, if your car is a pre-2004 registration, then you will have the older Vehicle Licensing Certificate, and this will be replaced with the new Vehicle Registration Certificate when you complete the process.
Why It’s Worth Sorting Early
Given that all of this paperwork can take time, it’s a good idea, if you have a car you currently want to sell and can’t find the Cert, to get all of this done well ahead of time, as you’ll need the Vehicle Registration Certificate to change ownership of the car. Equally, anyone buying the car from you may well become, justifiably, suspicious of your motives if you can’t show them a current Cert when they come to view the car.
Thinking of Buying a New Car?
If you’re planning to buy another car, it’s worth doing a quick background check first.
A report from MotorCheck.ie will tell you if a car has:
- Outstanding finance
- Been written off or imported
- Mileage discrepancies
- Or other hidden issues
It’s a small step that can save you a lot of time, money, and trouble later on.
FAQs About Replacement Log Books in Ireland
How much does it cost to replace a log book in Ireland?
It costs €12 to replace a Vehicle Registration Certificate in Ireland. Payment must be made by cheque or postal order. Cash isn’t accepted.
Where can I get Form RF134?
You can download Form RF134 from motortax.ie or pick one up from your local motor tax office.
How do I get a replacement log book in Ireland?
To get a replacement, complete Form RF134, have it witnessed and stamped by a Garda, include a €12 payment, and post it to your local motor tax office. You’ll receive your new Vehicle Registration Certificate by post once processed.
Can I apply online for a replacement?
Not at the moment. The RF134 form must be filled out manually and witnessed by a Garda before being sent in.
What if my vehicle was registered before 2004?
If your car was registered before 2004, you might still have the old Vehicle Licensing Certificate. When you apply for a replacement, it will automatically be updated to the new Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC).
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