Scrap metal licence

You need a licence to:

• run a scrap metal dealership or scrapyard
• recover parts from motor vehicles for re-use or sale
• buy written-off vehicles to repair and resell them
• collect scrap metal to sell to a scrap metal business

You can use our application forms to apply for a new licence or make a variation to an existing licence.

It is a criminal offence to carry out unlicensed activities and, if convicted, you could be given a £5,000 fine.

Apply for a new licence (PDF)

Apply for a variation on an existing licence (PDF)

If your application is unsuccessful, you may appeal to a magistrates' court within 21 days of the decision.

For more information visit:

• our fees page for the relevant fee
• our online Licence Register where all applications and licences are recorded 
• GOV.UK for the rules about scrap metal licences