How to Transfer Car Ownership

How to Transfer Car Ownership

When selling or transferring your car, it’s more than just agreeing on the terms and handing over the keys. UK law requires that car ownership is officially registered, regardless of whether money is exchanged (e.g., when gifting a car to a family member). To legally transfer ownership, you must update the details with the DVLA. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Transferring Ownership to an Individual

Transferring a car to someone else may seem complicated, but it’s actually quite simple. Just follow these three steps:

Determine if You Are the Owner or Keeper

Fill Out Section 6 of the V5C Logbook with the New Owner’s Details

Send the Completed V5C Form to the DVLA

Alternatively, you can transfer ownership online using the DVLA website with a straightforward form.

Understanding the Owner vs. Keeper

The owner and keeper of the car may or may not be the same person. The keeper is the individual listed on the V5C logbook and is legally responsible for the vehicle. This includes tasks like insuring the car, paying taxes, ensuring it’s roadworthy, and obtaining an MOT if it’s over three years old.

If the car is involved in an offense (e.g., speeding), the authorities will contact the keeper, even if they weren’t driving at the time.

Completing the V5C Logbook

The V5C logbook is issued by the DVLA when a car is first registered, and it must be updated every time the ownership changes. The current keeper (usually the seller) is responsible for completing and sending the logbook to the DVLA to officially transfer ownership.

If you are the owner, make sure to fill out the V5C with the new owner's details and send it to ensure you’re no longer legally responsible for the vehicle.

Transferring Car Ownership Online

Transferring ownership is now easier than ever with the DVLA’s online service. Simply complete the form on their website, providing the new owner’s details and the 11-digit reference number from the V5C logbook. You will receive an email confirmation, and if you provide the new owner’s email, they will also receive confirmation. The new V5C logbook will be sent to the new owner within five working days.

Transferring Ownership to a Dealer or Scrapyard

If you’re selling your car to a dealership or scrapyard, the process is slightly different but still straightforward. Follow these steps:

Determine if You Are the Owner or Keeper

Fill Out Section 9 of the V5C Logbook

Separate Section 9 from the Rest of the Logbook and Send it to the DVLA

Unlike private sales, when selling to a dealer or scrapyard, you only complete Section 9 of the V5C logbook. The rest of the logbook is given to the buyer.

Selling Your Car on Speedy Auto Buyer

When selling your car through Speedy Auto Buyer, you’re completing a ‘trade sale’ with a verified dealer, which follows the same process as selling to a dealership. After the buyer collects the car and pays for it, complete Section 9 of your V5C logbook with the dealer’s details and send it to the DVLA.

You can also handle this process online. Simply select “Sold to a motor trader,” then fill in the dealer’s details and the 11-digit reference number. Both you and the new owner will receive an email confirmation, and the new V5C logbook will be sent to them within five working days.

Important: Do not transfer ownership to Speedy Auto Buyer, as we are not the purchaser of your vehicle. If you believe you’ve done this in error, please contact us at valuations@speedyautobuyer.co.uk.