1. Understanding DVLA Car Transfer Problems UK
When selling or buying a vehicle in the UK, DVLA must be informed so their records show the correct registered keeper. If issues occur during transfer, the wrong person may remain liable for tax, insurance, and fines.
2. Registered Keeper vs Legal Owner
- Registered Keeper: The person DVLA records as responsible for the vehicle (tax, MOT, insurance).
- Legal Owner: The person who paid for the car and has proof of purchase.
DVLA records only the keeper, not the legal owner, which can cause confusion in disputes.
3. Common DVLA Car Transfer Problems
Typical issues include:
- DVLA not updating records after sale.
- Seller failing to notify DVLA properly.
- Buyer not registering the vehicle in their name.
- Lost or incomplete V5C logbook (log book).
- Fines and penalties being sent to the wrong person.
4. Problems Sellers May Face
If you sold the car but DVLA records weren’t updated, you may still receive:
- Parking or speeding fines.
- Road tax enforcement penalties.
- SORN (off-road declaration) violations.
- Court summons for offences committed by the new keeper.
5. Problems Buyers May Face
If DVLA doesn’t update the new keeper details, the buyer may:
- Be unable to tax the car.
- Struggle to get insurance in their name.
- Face fines for driving an unregistered vehicle.
- Have difficulty proving legal possession in disputes.
6. How to Notify DVLA Correctly
To avoid transfer problems, always:
- Use the DVLA online service for immediate updates.
- Complete and send the correct section of the V5C logbook.
- Keep the V5C/2 green slip as proof if you’re the buyer.
- Retain written proof of sale (receipt, signed agreement).
7. What to Do If DVLA Hasn’t Updated Records
- Contact DVLA with proof of sale or purchase.
- Provide buyer/seller details, date of transfer, and evidence (receipt or bank transfer).
- Request written confirmation that the records are corrected.
8. How to Deal With Fines After Sale
If you’re still receiving fines:
- Return the notice with evidence of the sale.
- Contact the issuing authority (council, police, or DVLA).
- Appeal formally if fines continue.
9. Lost or Missing V5C Logbook
If the logbook is lost or not handed over:
- Buyers can apply for a replacement using form V62.
- Sellers can still notify DVLA of the sale in writing.
- Both should keep a signed receipt as proof of transfer.
10. Court Proceedings for DVLA Transfer Disputes
If prosecuted:
- Gather all sale or purchase evidence.
- Send it to the court in advance.
- Attend the hearing to explain the DVLA error.
Courts usually dismiss cases if clear proof of transfer is shown.
11. Preventing Future DVLA Transfer Problems
- Always notify DVLA immediately online after buying or selling.
- Keep all receipts and documents.
- Double-check DVLA confirmation of the change.
- Never rely on the other party to notify DVLA on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does DVLA take to update car transfer?
Online updates are instant. Postal updates may take 4–6 weeks.
Q2. Am I responsible for fines after selling a car?
No, but you must prove the sale and that you notified DVLA.
Q3. Can I tax a car without the V5C?
Yes, with the V11 reminder or by applying for a new logbook (V62).
Q4. What happens if the buyer never registers the car?
You remain the registered keeper until DVLA is informed by you.
Q5. Can I be fined for not notifying DVLA?
Yes, up to £1,000 for failing to update records.
Q6. What if I bought a car but DVLA hasn’t updated the record?
Contact DVLA with the V5C/2 green slip and apply for correction.
Conclusion
DVLA car transfer problems UK can lead to fines, legal disputes, and unnecessary stress. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, the key is notifying DVLA immediately and keeping proof of the transaction. By acting quickly and providing evidence, you can resolve disputes, correct records, and protect yourself from penalties.