Free Traffic Legal Advice

The police have 14 days to send the NIP to the registered keeper. So who is the registered keeper?

Many people swear blind that they’re the registered keeper but aren’t. Have you checked the V5C (and are the details correct)?

Many people swear blind that they’re the registered keeper but aren’t. Have you checked the V5C (and are the details correct)?

I’ve just asked the question and my employer has said that we are the registered keeper and have a V5C with there details on

If I was going to stick two fingers up at the cops (and forego the chance of a course or fixed penalty) I’d want to see the V5C myself. But you do you.

Leaving aside that you’re not appealing… yes, if the NIP to the RK was over 14 days. Otherwise no.

Next time you are in/with the van, check the glove box for anything from the lease company, any text at the bottom of the number plates and any stickers on the windows.

Not as definitive as the V5C, but might give an early heads-up.

If the V5C does materialise, what you need to check is that the details (particularly the address) are correct and current, and the issue date. The issue date can be found at the bottom of page 2, after the Doc.Ref.No. Alternatively, the date the latest V5C was issued can be found on the DVLA's website if you perform a vehicle check. If the V5C was issued after the offence date, then chances are the original NIP went elsewhere. If it was issued before your company got the vehicle, that's pretty much conclusive that your boss won't be showing you a V5C with their name and address on.

As regards whether you have a viable defence - you said it was a lease van, the timing of the NIP is consistent with that, and what your company said is inconsistent with the other two, Unless and until this V5C materialises, the answer is a flat no (on the "late NIP" front at least).

Next time you are in/with the van, check the glove box for anything from the lease company, any text at the bottom of the number plates and any stickers on the windows.

Not as definitive as the V5C, but might give an early heads-up.

If the V5C does materialise, what you need to check is that the details (particularly the address) are correct and current, and the issue date. The issue date can be found at the bottom of page 2, after the Doc.Ref.No. Alternatively, the date the latest V5C was issued can be found on the DVLA's website if you perform a vehicle check. If the V5C was issued after the offence date, then chances are the original NIP went elsewhere. If it was issued before your company got the vehicle, that's pretty much conclusive that your boss won't be showing you a V5C with their name and address on.

As regards whether you have a viable defence - you said it was a lease van, the timing of the NIP is consistent with that, and what your company said is inconsistent with the other two, Unless and until this V5C materialises, the answer is a flat no (on the "late NIP" front at least).

Definitely no stickers under the plates or in the van or the glove box, I’ve also asked both directors separately and have both said the same thing, they are going to provide me with the V5C tomorrow