What is the V5C?
The V5C is the vehicle registration certificate issued by DVLA. It records the registered keeper of the vehicle — not necessarily the legal owner, but the person responsible for taxing and insuring it. When you sell your car, the V5C must be updated to reflect the new keeper.
What to do with the V5C when you sell
When selling to us, we guide you through this in person. Here is the standard process:
- Complete Section 6 (New Keeper Details) with the buyer's information
- Keep the yellow Section 10 (New Keeper Supplement) — this is your proof of sale until the new V5C arrives in the buyer's name
- We send the main V5C to DVLA on your behalf and notify them of the change of keeper
What if I do not have the V5C?
You can still sell a car without the V5C, but it is more complicated and may affect the value. You can apply for a replacement V5C from DVLA for a small fee. We can still proceed without it in many cases — call us to discuss your specific situation.
What about road tax?
Road tax (VED) is no longer transferable between keepers. From the moment you sell the car, the road tax is cancelled and you are entitled to a refund on any full remaining months. The new keeper must tax the vehicle separately before driving it.
Keeping your yellow slip
Do not throw away the yellow Section 10 slip (New Keeper Supplement). This is your proof that you transferred the vehicle. Keep it until you receive written confirmation from DVLA that the keeper has changed — usually within four weeks.
What happens if something goes wrong after the sale?
If you complete the sale correctly and notify DVLA, you should not be liable for anything that happens after the handover. If you receive fines or letters after the sale, contact DVLA with your proof of transfer. This is exactly why keeping the yellow slip matters.