How to Change or Transfer Car Ownership: A Complete Guide

Whether you've bought a new car or sold your old one, there are a few things you'll need to do. From notifying the DVLA about the new keeper using their online service, to changing the vehicle on your insurance – it's important to get the admin sorted quickly so you're properly covered and legal on the road.

Transferring ownership starts with the V5C logbook. The seller fills in their section with the buyer's details, then tears off the green slip (V5C/2) and hands it to the new keeper as proof of transfer. The seller keeps the yellow slip (V5C/3) as their record of sale.

Next, notify the DVLA. You can do this online at gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle using the 11-digit reference number from your V5C. You'll get instant confirmation by email. Alternatively, post the rest of the logbook to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.

If you're selling to a motor trader or scrapyard, the process is similar. Many traders will complete the online form themselves with your consent, removing your details from the vehicle record straight away.

Complete the transfer within 14 days to avoid penalties and ensure you're no longer responsible for the vehicle.

How to tell the DVLA and change keeper details online

You can notify the DVLA immediately at gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle using the 11-digit reference number from your V5C logbook. 

Alternatively, you can post the completed V5C to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA (keep proof of postage).

When you notify the DVLA online, both you and the new keeper will receive an email confirmation. The new keeper will also receive their new V5C logbook within five working days. Your vehicle tax is automatically cancelled, and you'll receive a refund for any full remaining months sent to your address.

What do you need to know about selling or transferring your car?

Before you hand over the keys, there are some important steps to tick off. Run a HPI (vehicle history check) on the vehicle registration number to confirm there's no outstanding finance – settling any debt with the finance company is essential before the sale. If you don't have your logbook, apply for a replacement using a V62 form at gov.uk or online for £25, which typically arrives within five working days.

On the day of sale, complete the V5C transfer sections properly and give the new keeper the green slip. Create a receipt with both signatures, the vehicle registration number, mileage and sale price. Then notify the authorities straight away – you can do this online at gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle.

Make sure the new owner knows they need to arrange their own insurance before driving away and tax the vehicle in their name. Keep your yellow V5C/3 slip as proof you've sold the car.

If you're an Allianz customer, changing the car on your policy is straightforward. Log in to your Allianz account and select 'your car, make changes'. On the next page, choose 'change this car' and enter your new vehicle's registration number. The system will pull up the details automatically, so check everything looks correct before reviewing your quote and confirming.

You can schedule the change up to 7 days in advance, and your current car stays covered until the changeover date. On that day, both vehicles are covered until 23:59, giving you time to make the switch. The best part? There are no admin fees.

If your new vehicle doesn't appear when you enter the registration (common with newly registered cars), you can enter the details manually using your V5C logbook.

Whether you're passing a car to a family member, adjusting details like engine size, or declaring SORN on another vehicle, remember to update your insurance accordingly to keep everything legal and covered.