How to transfer car ownership – a simple guide

Selling your car is exciting, but what about the paperwork? Transferring ownership is just one thing you’ll need to think about. If you don’t do it properly, it can lead to a messy situation for both you and your buyer.

Thankfully, with over 7 million used cars being sold each year in the UK, there’s a pretty streamlined process in place. In this blog, we’ll go through everything you need to know about transferring car ownership so that you can sell your car with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Who is responsible for the ownership transfer of your car?
• How do I transfer ownership of a car?
• Can you transfer ownership of a vehicle online?

Who’s Responsible for Transferring Car Ownership?

The responsibility for transferring ownership depends on how you’re selling your car:

Transferring Ownership: Private Sale

In this scenario, you, the seller, are entirely responsible for notifying the DVLA about the transfer. Don’t delay this process! If you don’t transfer ownership quickly, you could be held responsible for any fines or penalties the new owner gets while driving the car.

Transferring Ownership: Selling to a Dealer

When selling your car to a dealership (like BigWantsYourCar.com!), the responsibility typically falls on them. We handle the entire transfer process online for a quick and hassle-free experience, saving you valuable time. However, if you prefer to complete the transfer yourself, you can keep the yellow slip of the V5C document and notify the DVLA directly.

Transferring Ownership: Part Exchange

If you’re trading your car in for a new one at a dealership (part exchange), they might handle the transfer, but it’s not always guaranteed. Make sure you confirm with the dealership that they will complete the transfer on your behalf.

How Do I Transfer Ownership of a Car?

Transferring ownership of your car is pretty straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what’s involved:

• Gather your documents: Locate your V5C (Vehicle Registration Certificate). If you’ve lost it, you can order a replacement from the DVLA website.
• Complete the transfer section: Find the “notification of sale or transfer” section in your V5C.
• Get the buyer’s details: Fill in section 6 (“New keeper or new name / new address”) with the new owner’s DVLA information.
• Separate and send the slip: Detach the completed section 6 (green “New Keeper” slip) from the V5C and send it directly to the DVLA. Keep the remaining portion (V5C) for your records.
• Sign and declare: Review and sign the declaration in section 8, confirming the sale and accuracy of the information.
• Wait for confirmation: The DVLA will be notified and send you a confirmation letter once the transfer is complete.

Sell my car without a V5C

Can you transfer ownership of a vehicle online?

Yes, absolutely. The DVLA has an online transfer system that makes transferring ownership of your vehicle really simple. Using your VC5, you can follow the steps on the government website.