The short answer
When you sell your car, tell the DVLA straight away using the online service on GOV.UK. You need the 11-digit document reference number from your V5C. Give the new keeper the green V5C/2 slip. You will receive an automatic refund for any full months of car tax left, and you stop being responsible for the car — including fines and speeding tickets — from the moment the DVLA is notified.
Key points
- Use the GOV.UK "Tell DVLA you have sold a vehicle" service — it is free and instant.
- You need the 11-digit document reference number from your V5C.
- Give the buyer the green V5C/2 new keeper slip.
- Vehicle tax does not transfer — any full months remaining are refunded automatically.
- Until the DVLA is told, you can be held responsible for fines on the car.
Why it matters
Until the DVLA is notified, you remain the registered keeper. That means parking fines, speeding tickets, congestion or clean air zone charges and unpaid tax penalties can be sent to you — even after the car has gone.
What happens to my car tax?
Car tax is not transferable. When you tell the DVLA you have sold the car, any Direct Debit is cancelled and you are refunded for any full calendar months remaining. The new keeper must tax the car before driving it.
Selling to a car buying service
When you sell to a motor trader or buying service, the process is the same: the sale is notified to the DVLA and you receive confirmation by email or post. Always keep a copy of the confirmation.
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See also: Sell My Car — Fast, Free & No Obligation