Preparing the paperwork

Once you’ve sealed the deal, you’ll need to write a receipt acknowledging the following information:

• The date
• The amount paid
• The make and model of car sold
• The car’s registration
• The names and addresses of buyer and seller

Make two copies of the receipt; one for you and one for the buyer. The most important thing for you to do next is to fill out the tear-off portion of your car’s registration document (its V5C) and send it off to the DVLA; give the top part of the V5C to the new owner. Telling the DVLA that the car has a new owner means you won’t be liable for any fines racked up after the sale.

Finish off by handing over any other useful documentation such as:

• The car’s handbook and service records
• The MOT certificate (if it’s over three years old)
• Any paperwork that relates to the car’s warranty, if it still has one

Inform your insurance company and return the tax disc to the DVLA for a refund (unless it’s part of the deal).