How to Transfer Car Ownership
Transferring car ownership doesn’t have to be complicated. Cazoo’s guide walks you through the process, covering all the essential steps to ensure a smooth and legal transfer.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 17 August 2026 | 5 mins read
Changing the ownership of a car might feel a bit daunting, but it’s far simpler than you might think. Whether you’re selling your car privately, giving it to a family member, or simply updating your information with the DVLA, ensuring the ownership is transferred correctly is essential. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on how to transfer car ownership in the UK. If you just want the quick version: notify the DVLA using the reference number from your V5C, either online in a few minutes or by post, and do it as soon as the sale is agreed so you’re not left liable for the car after it’s changed hands.
Why It’s Important to Transfer Ownership
When you sell or transfer a car, the DVLA needs to know who the new registered keeper is. This helps avoid unexpected fines or penalties landing on your doorstep for something that wasn’t your doing, like unpaid tax or speeding violations.
Failing to notify the DVLA of a change in ownership can lead to a fine of up to £1,000. On top of that, if you’re the seller, you won’t be able to claim a refund on any unused road tax unless the DVLA is informed.
What You’ll Need to Transfer Ownership
The V5C Logbook
Often referred to as the vehicle’s logbook, the V5C is a vital document in any ownership transfer process. It holds crucial information about the car and its current registered keeper. You’ll need this to complete the transfer, whether you’re doing it in person, online, or by post.
If you’ve misplaced the V5C, you can apply for a replacement online through the DVLA. Replacement logbooks cost £25 and typically take around 5 to 7 working days to arrive.
Other Information You’ll Need
- The buyer’s full name, address, and email (if applicable).
- Access to the internet for online submissions or a Post Office location if you’re doing it by post.
Online Car Ownership Transfer
The easiest and fastest way to transfer ownership of a car is online using the DVLA’s digital service. Here’s how to do it:
Steps to Follow:
- Go to the DVLA Website
Head to the official DVLA online service.
2. Fill in the V5C Details
You’ll need the 11-digit reference number on the V5C document. This is used to link the car’s information to your transfer request.
3. Enter Buyer’s Details
Add the full name and address of the buyer, ensuring there are no mistakes. You can also include their email address to send them confirmation of the transfer.
4. Submit the Form
Once all the details are entered and checked, submit the form. You’ll receive an email confirmation right away, and the buyer will receive their updated logbook by post within 5 to 7 working days.
It’s that simple—no stamps, no waiting in queues.
Transferring Ownership by Post
If you prefer the traditional route, you can transfer car ownership by post. It takes a bit longer than the online method but is just as effective.
- Complete the V5C Document
Tear off the green “New Keeper” slip (Section 10 on older versions; Section 6 on newer ones) and fill in the buyer’s details.
2. Send the Remaining Sections to the DVLA
Post the completed V5C to the DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA. Make sure it’s sent promptly to ensure the transfer is processed without delay.
3. Buyer Receives a New Logbook
The buyer’s updated V5C logbook will arrive in a few weeks, confirming them as the new registered keeper.
What if You Don’t Have the V5C?
While it’s always better to have the V5C to hand, you can still transfer ownership without it. Provide the buyer with a detailed bill of sale, including the car’s registration number, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), make, model, and the sale date. The buyer can then use this information to apply for a replacement V5C and register themselves as the new keeper. It’s also worth putting the sale in writing more generally – our guide to buyer and seller contracts explains what a good bill of sale should include and how it protects both parties.
Special Situations
Selling to a Trader or Scrap Yard
If you’re selling the car to a dealer or for scrap, tick the relevant sections on the V5C and send it to the DVLA. Dealers often handle the rest of the process, and you can expect to receive confirmation within a few weeks. If you’d rather not deal with a private buyer, you can also sell your car directly to Cazoo – you’ll still need to notify the DVLA yourself, but it saves the hassle of finding somebody to buy it privately.
Gifting to a Family Member
The process for gifting a car to a relative is the same as selling it. You’ll still need to notify the DVLA by completing the V5C or using the online service.
Tax Matters
Remember, road tax doesn’t transfer to the vehicle’s new owner. Sellers will automatically receive a refund for any full months left on the car’s tax, while buyers must tax the car themselves before driving it away.
Don’t Forget Your Insurance
It’s easy to overlook, but transferring the V5C doesn’t update your car insurance automatically. If you’re selling, cancel or transfer your policy separately – most insurers ask for a few days’ notice. If you’re buying, you’ll need your own cover in place before you drive away, as the seller’s policy won’t cover you. If you’re buying privately, it’s also worth reading our guide on how to avoid car scams before you hand over any money.
What Happens If You Don’t Notify the DVLA?
Failing to officially record a change of ownership can be costly. The DVLA may issue a fine of £55 (reduced to £35 if you pay within 17 days), which could increase to up to £1,000 if the case goes to court. More significantly, you could remain liable for fines, penalties, or parking tickets incurred by the car's new owner.
By ensuring the transfer is completed promptly and correctly, you avoid these headaches and make the process as smooth as possible.
Can You Drive the Car Before the Transfer Completes?
Yes – you don’t need to wait for the new V5C to arrive before driving the car, as long as it’s insured and taxed. It’s telling the DVLA that matters legally, not the logbook physically landing on your doormat. It’s worth keeping a copy of the new keeper slip, or your online confirmation email, as proof of the date the sale went through, just in case there’s ever a dispute.