What do I do with the V5C when I sell a car?

When you sell a car, complete Section 6 of the V5C logbook (the yellow slip). Give the main V5C document to the buyer. Send the yellow slip to DVLA or notify DVLA online at gov.uk. Keep a record of the date of sale and the buyer's name and address. Road tax is automatically cancelled and you receive a refund for any full remaining months.

What do I do with the V5C when I buy a car privately?

When buying a car privately, the seller should give you the main V5C (not just the yellow slip). Check that the V5C details match the vehicle — VIN, engine number, colour and make. Register the change of keeper at gov.uk or send Section 6 to DVLA. You should also arrange new car insurance and tax before driving.

What if there is no V5C logbook when buying a car?

If there is no V5C, you can apply for a replacement using a V62 form. The DVLA charges £25 for a replacement logbook. CarForms can complete and post the V62 application for you. Always be cautious buying a car without a V5C as it can be a sign of a stolen or seriously modified vehicle.

How long does it take for DVLA to update the V5C after a sale?

DVLA typically updates the vehicle record and issues a new V5C to the buyer within 2–4 weeks of receiving notification. During busy periods it can take up to 6 weeks. If you notified DVLA online, you should receive a confirmation email immediately.

Free Interactive Checklist

V5C Transfer Checklist Buying or Selling a Used Car

Tick off every step when buying or selling a car privately. Don't miss a thing — from pre-purchase checks to DVLA notification and road tax.

Interactive — Tick as You Go

Free, No Sign-Up

Nothing Stored

Progress

Before You Buy — Vehicle Checks

On the Day — Collecting the Car

After Purchase — DVLA & Admin

Before Listing — Preparation

On the Day — Handover

After Sale — DVLA Notification

All done! ✓

You've completed every step. Keep a record of the V5C section you sent to DVLA and the date of sale/purchase.

Need to complete a V62 or V5C form?

CarForms completes, prints and posts your DVLA application for you — from £29.95 including postage.

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Run These Checks Before You Buy

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