Transferring car ownership means legally changing the registered keeper of a vehicle to another person. This process is essential when gifting or selling a car to a family member or anyone else. It ensures that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has the correct details for the new owner and avoids complications with taxes, fines, or insurance.
Steps to Transfer Your Car to a Family Member
Transferring a car to a family member in the UK is a straightforward process. However, it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure everything is done legally and efficiently. Here’s how you can do it:
- Obtain the vehicle’s V5C logbook.
- Complete the necessary sections of the V5C form.
- Inform the DVLA about the new keeper.
- Follow up to ensure the transfer is processed correctly.
By completing these steps, you’ll avoid any penalties or legal issues.
Find the V5C Logbook
The V5C logbook, also known as the vehicle’s registration document, is a crucial document required for transferring ownership. This document contains all the details of the registered keeper and vehicle. If you can’t find the V5C, you’ll need to request a replacement from the DVLA before proceeding with the transfer.
Fill Out the V5C
Once you have the V5C logbook, you’ll need to fill out specific sections of it to transfer ownership. The process involves:
- Filling out Section 6 with the new keeper’s details.
- Both the current keeper and the new keeper signing Section 8 to confirm the transfer.
- Detaching and giving the new keeper slip (V5C/2) to the new owner.
Inform the DVLA
It is mandatory to inform the DVLA whenever vehicle ownership changes. This ensures the agency has accurate records and helps avoid issues related to vehicle tax and fines.
Give the New Keeper Slip
The new keeper slip, also known as V5C/2, is a small detachable section of the V5C document. This slip serves as proof that the new owner has acquired the vehicle. It’s vital to hand this over to the new keeper during the transfer.
How to Tell the DVLA About the New Keeper
You can notify the DVLA about the new keeper either online or by post. This step officially completes the transfer process and updates the DVLA’s records.
Online Method
Transferring ownership online is the fastest and most convenient method. To do this, you’ll need:
- The V5C document.
- Internet access.
- The new keeper’s details.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official DVLA website.
- Enter the 11-digit reference number from the V5C.
- Provide the new keeper’s details.
- Confirm the transfer.
Once completed, the new keeper will receive an email confirmation, and the DVLA will send a new V5C to their address.
By Post
If you prefer the traditional method, you can transfer ownership by post. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fill out the relevant sections of the V5C form.
- Sign the form along with the new keeper.
- Mail the completed form to the DVLA at the address provided on the document.
The new keeper slip (V5C/2) should still be handed to the new owner. The DVLA will process the transfer and send the updated V5C to the new keeper’s address.
What Happens After the Transfer?
After transferring ownership, there are a few things you should be aware of:
New V5C Issued
The DVLA will issue a new V5C logbook to the new keeper. This document typically arrives within a few weeks of the transfer being processed.
Tax and Insurance
Vehicle tax does not transfer to the new owner. The previous keeper will receive a refund for any unused months, and the new keeper must tax the vehicle immediately. Additionally, the new owner must update the insurance policy to reflect the change in ownership.
Important Things to Remember
- Always ensure the DVLA is informed to avoid legal penalties.
- Keep proof of the transfer for your records.
- Verify that the new keeper taxes and insures the vehicle promptly.
Private Number Plates
If the vehicle has a private number plate, it’s essential to address this before transferring ownership. You can either retain the number plate or transfer it to the new owner. This process can be done through the DVLA online or by post.
The Bottom Line
Transferring car ownership to a family member in the UK is a simple process if you follow the proper steps. Ensure you have the V5C logbook, complete the necessary sections, and notify the DVLA. By doing so, you’ll avoid complications and ensure a smooth transition for the new keeper. Whether you choose to transfer ownership online or by post, taking the time to do it correctly will save you from potential issues later.
