1. Why the Car is Still Registered in Your Name After Sale
In the UK, selling a car doesn’t automatically transfer DVLA records. If the buyer doesn’t update details, or if you fail to notify DVLA, the car remains registered in your name. This means you may still receive fines, tax reminders, or even prosecution notices.
2. Registered Keeper vs Legal Owner
- Registered Keeper: The person recorded with DVLA as responsible for the vehicle (tax, insurance, MOT).
- Legal Owner: The individual who paid for and legally owns the car.
DVLA only keeps records of the registered keeper, not the legal owner.
3. Common Problems If Car Still Registered in Your Name
If DVLA records aren’t updated, you may face:
- Parking and speeding fines
- Road tax enforcement penalties
- SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) violations
- Uninsured vehicle penalties
- Court summons for offences committed by the new owner
4. Your Legal Responsibility When Selling a Car
As the seller, you must:
- Complete the V5C logbook with the buyer’s details.
- Notify DVLA immediately online or by post.
- Keep the V5C/3 (green slip) as proof of sale.
Failure to notify DVLA could result in fines of up to £1,000.
5. Evidence to Prove You Sold the Car
To remove liability, you’ll need evidence such as:
- Copy of the V5C/3 green slip
- DVLA confirmation of sale (email or letter)
- Bill of sale or receipt signed by buyer and seller
- Bank transfer or proof of payment
- Messages or written agreement confirming sale
6. How to Correct DVLA Records
If the car is still registered in your name after sale:
- Contact DVLA with proof of sale.
- Submit the buyer’s details and date of sale.
- Request written confirmation that records have been updated.
- Keep all correspondence as evidence.
7. What to Do If You’re Fined for the Car
- Do not ignore the fine.
- Respond to the issuing authority (council, police, DVLA).
- Provide proof of sale and the date you transferred the car.
- Appeal formally if the fine is upheld.
8. Court Proceedings for Sold Cars
If you receive a court summons, prepare by:
- Collecting all sale evidence.
- Sending copies to the court in advance.
- Attending the hearing and explaining you are no longer the keeper.
Courts often dismiss cases if proof of sale is clear.
9. Preventing Future Issues
- Always notify DVLA immediately online after selling.
- Keep proof of sale for at least several years.
- Double-check that DVLA has removed your name as the registered keeper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Am I still liable if the car is registered in my name after sale UK?
Yes, until DVLA updates records, you may be liable for fines and penalties.
Q2. Can I be fined if I didn’t notify DVLA?
Yes, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.
Q3. What if I lost the logbook?
You can still notify DVLA in writing with buyer details.
Q4. Can I use a handwritten receipt as proof of sale?
Yes, especially if signed by both parties and supported by other evidence.
Q5. What happens if the buyer refuses to update DVLA?
It is your responsibility as the seller to notify DVLA. If you don’t, you remain liable.
Q6. How long does DVLA take to update records?
Online notifications update instantly, while postal applications can take 4–6 weeks.
Conclusion
If a car registered in my name after sale UK, you must act quickly to correct DVLA records and stop liability for fines. By providing proof of sale and notifying DVLA properly, you can protect yourself from prosecution and financial penalties. Always notify DVLA immediately after selling to avoid future problems.