Documents, Paperwork & Payment to Accept When Selling a Car

Once you have agreed on the car sale it’s time to arrange payment terms. Only accept a BACS transfer into your bank account. Do not release the car to the new owner until you have proven the cash in your account.

A BACS transfer really is the best way to secure a genuine payment. I am sceptical on any other method. BACS is simple, safe and secure. You may even want to mention your accepted payment method during the initial phone call with the prospect or within the first few minutes of them arriving to view your car.

Acceptable payment is bank transfer only.

Selling a car privately – receipt

Always produce a receipt that includes:

Name address and phone number of existing and new owners
Vehicle make and model
Colour
Vehicle registration number
Mileage
Date of transaction
Transaction type (BACS etc)
Confirmation that the V5C logbook will be sent to DVLA for a change of ownership
Signature from both parties

Also, ensure there is a copy of the receipt for yourself and the new owner.

A receipt is not a legally binding contract but is best practice and a part of every car I sell.

What to do with car documentation when you sell your car privately

Ensure the log book (V5C) is filled out correctly by including:

New owner’s details (Section 6)
Signature declaration (Section 8) from both parties.
Small green slip (“new keeper’s supplement” or Section 10 V5C2) that also contains the new keeper’s name, address and date of sale/transfer

Important – As the registered keeper You retain the rest of the logbook and send it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA. The new keeper is permitted the green slip, like the one below.

document to sell a car privately in the UK

Do NOT allow the new owner to drive away with the log book else you will most likely get a fine from the DVLA because you didn’t personally notify them. Also, should your old car receive a parking or speeding fine you will be liable unless you can prove you no longer owned the vehicle.

I hope this post helps you secure your sale for the price you really want. If you haven’t sold your car yet and are planning to use Autotrader check out my guide to selling a car privately, packed with tips to help you make a quick sale at a reasonable price.

Marcus Rockey
Used Car Guy