Prior to putting your car up for sale make sure that you have the original V5C document
, without it most people will not buy your vehicle. If you have lost the original you can apply for a replacement from the DVLA using a V62 application form or by calling 0300 790 6802.
Do not leave anyone alone with the vehicle when showing it to potential buyers, or allow them to take a test drive without you in the vehicle, thieves sometimes pose as buyers. Do not hand over your car unless you are sure that what you are being paid with is genuine, cash, bankers drafts or checks can all be forged.
Provided you made it clear when you advertised the car for sale or the buyer agrees you can get a refund on your road tax from the DVLA. Remove the tax disc from the vehicle and apply for a refund from the DVLA by post, enclosing a completed V14 form and the tax disc.
If you have a number plate on your car that you want to keep for your next vehicle make sure that you fill out the correct paperwork to retain the right to continue to use that number plate. Send a completed V317 form to the DVLA to do this. Do not advertise or sell the vehicle until you have received final confirmation of your right to retain usage of that number plate from the DVLA. This is also necessary even if you have previously brought your personalised number plate.
Inform the DVLA when you sell your vehicle. Not doing so can lead to your being held responsible for motoring offences committed by its new owner and any related fines. The easiest way to inform the DVLA is to fill out your portion of the V5C document and send it to the DVLA. If you no longer have the V5C document you can write a letter to the DVLA instead. Once you have told the DVLA that you have sold the vehicle you will get a letter from them within 4 weeks, which will confirm that they are aware of the change of ownership. If you do not receive the letter within 4 weeks it is important that you contact the DVLA to find out why you have not received it.