Buying a used car from a private seller means completing the V5C's new keeper section — this is free. A new V5C typically arrives within around 4 weeks; a replacement for a lost one costs £25. First registration of a brand-new or newly imported vehicle uses a different form (V55) and involves DVLA assigning your registration number.
At a glance
| Situation | What to do & cost |
|---|---|
| Buying used from a private seller | Complete V5C new keeper section — free |
| Buying from a dealer | Dealer usually handles DVLA notification for you |
| Lost/damaged V5C | Apply for a replacement — £25 |
| New or newly imported vehicle | First registration via V55 form |
| Personalised/private plate transfer | Separate DVLA process and fee applies |
Buying a used car privately
When you buy from a private seller, the seller completes the 'new keeper' section of the V5C with your details and the sale date, then posts it to DVLA — this notification is free. You keep the green new keeper supplement slip as interim proof of registration while DVLA processes the change and posts out a new V5C in your name, which typically takes around 4 weeks. You're legally the registered keeper from the sale date, so tax the car before driving it away — vehicle tax does not automatically transfer with the car.
Buying from a dealer
Dealers usually handle DVLA notification as part of the sale, either electronically or via the same V5C process. Confirm this has actually happened and ask for evidence, rather than assuming — you remain liable for the vehicle (including any fines) until DVLA's records show you as keeper.
Replacing a lost, stolen or damaged V5C
- Apply to DVLA for a replacement V5C — this costs £25 and can be done online or by post.
- You'll need to confirm details matching DVLA's existing record (registration, make, chassis/VIN number).
- Processing typically takes a few weeks; DVLA also offers ways to check basic vehicle details online in the meantime.
Registering a new or imported vehicle
A brand-new vehicle from a dealer is normally registered by the dealer directly with DVLA, and you receive your V5C shortly after. For imported or previously unregistered vehicles, the process uses form V55/4 (new vehicles) or V55/5 (used imports), and DVLA assigns a UK registration number once required documentation — including proof of type approval or IVA where relevant, and evidence of tax status — is provided.
Personalised and private number plates
- Transferring a private plate onto a vehicle, or retaining one when you sell a car, is a separate DVLA process from standard keeper changes, with its own fee.
- You can hold a private registration 'on retention' for a fee if you're not ready to assign it to a vehicle immediately.
- Always complete plate transfers through DVLA directly (or a reputable registered dealer) — plates aren't legally transferred just by fitting new physical plates to the car.
You are legally responsible for a vehicle — including parking and speeding fines and untaxed-vehicle penalties — until DVLA's records are updated, regardless of who's actually driving it. Don't delay notifying a sale or purchase.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to register a change of keeper with the DVLA?
How long does it take to get a new V5C after buying a car?
How much does it cost to replace a lost V5C?
Do I need to tax a car myself after buying it privately?
Can I transfer a private number plate myself without DVLA?
Sources & further reading
- GOV.UK – buying or selling a vehicle
- GOV.UK – V5C registration certificate
- DVLA – vehicle registration services
Figures, prices and policy details were current at the last-updated date above. Automotive pricing, incentives and regulations change frequently — verify time-sensitive details with the linked primary sources. Read our editorial policy and fact-checking standards.
