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When someone else can collect your vehicle
Most impound pounds in the UK expect the registered keeper to attend in person, but there are situations where that’s not possible — for instance, if you’re unwell, away, or unable to drive. In those cases, a family member or another trusted person may be allowed to collect the vehicle on your behalf. The pound will only agree to this if strict conditions are met and the right paperwork is shown.
The key rule: written permission from the keeper
The essential document is a clear, signed letter of authority from you, the registered keeper. It must confirm that you’ve given permission for your relative to collect the car and should include your full name, address, and contact details, as well as theirs. Many pounds will also ask for the vehicle registration number and a short line such as “I authorise [name] to collect my vehicle from [pound name] on my behalf.” Always sign and date the letter, and ideally include a copy of your photo ID with it.
Proof of ID and relationship
The person collecting the car must bring original photo ID, such as a driving licence or passport, to prove who they are. Some pounds may also ask for proof of address. If the pound queries the arrangement, a brief explanation — for example, that the keeper is in hospital or out of the area — usually helps confirm the reason. It doesn’t matter whether they’re a family member or friend; what matters is that the authority is clear and genuine.
Documents they’ll need to show at the pound
Alongside the signed letter of authority, the collector will normally need:
- Your original V5C logbook, new keeper slip, or other proof of ownership
- A valid insurance certificate covering the vehicle for the journey, if it’s to be driven away
- A current MOT certificate if the car is being driven, or proof of a pre-booked MOT if not
- Proof that all release and storage fees will be paid on collection
- Their own driving licence or passport as ID
If the car is uninsured or unroadworthy, the collector will need to arrange recovery using a professional transporter. Pounds will not release vehicles to be driven away illegally, even if fees are paid in full.
Verification and checks by pound staff
Pound staff will check every document carefully and may phone the keeper using the number on the authorisation letter to confirm permission. If they can’t verify it, they may refuse release until they’ve spoken to the registered keeper directly. Some police pounds also require the letter to be witnessed or accompanied by copies of the keeper’s photo ID and signature. Always ask ahead, as local rules vary.
Insurance and liability considerations
The person collecting the car takes full legal responsibility for it once they drive or transport it off the site. That means they must have proper insurance in place and ensure the car’s roadworthy. If the car’s untaxed but being driven to a pre-booked MOT, they’ll need proof of that appointment. Without it, the pound can refuse release or require recovery instead.
Paying and collecting the vehicle
Once all documents are verified, the collector can pay release and storage fees, normally by card. Pounds rarely take cash. After payment, they’ll be escorted to the vehicle and asked to sign the release paperwork. They should inspect the car carefully before leaving, check for damage, and confirm that any personal belongings are still inside. Once the car leaves the site, responsibility passes fully to the collector.
When the keeper must still attend in person
In many areas, if the car was seized for no insurance, the registered keeper may still need to attend personally with their ID and insurance documents. That’s because police checks must confirm the keeper’s new insurance before release. Some pounds will only permit a third party to handle the payment or recovery in that situation, not the full release. Always confirm by phone before sending someone on your behalf.
Making sure everything matches up
Before the collection day, check that every name, address, and registration number on your documents matches exactly. Mismatched details or unsigned letters are among the most common reasons for delays. Clear, consistent paperwork makes the process smoother and avoids an unnecessary return visit.
After the car’s collected
Once the vehicle’s safely back home or at a garage, double-check that any outstanding conditions — tax, MOT, or insurance — are sorted straight away. Keep copies of all paperwork from the pound for your records. If you plan to keep the car on the road, make sure it’s fully legal before driving it again. A small bit of preparation before release can save a lot of time, money and frustration later on.
Impound processes, time limits and costs vary widely across the UK, and authorities can amend their rules at any time. Information on this site is intended as a general overview and should not be relied on as definitive for any specific impound location.