What documents do I need to sell my car?

The essentials

You'll struggle to sell without these four.

• The V5C registration certificate, also called the logbook. It shows who the registered keeper is. You need the 11-digit document reference number on it to tell the DVLA you've sold the car online. It isn't proof of ownership, but every buyer will want to see it and check it matches the car.
• Photo ID. A driving licence or passport with the same name and address as the V5C. Trade buyers ask for this to guard against fraud.
• Proof of address. A recent utility bill or bank statement, especially if your licence still has an old address on it.
• All the keys, including the spare. A missing key lowers the price because replacements for modern cars are expensive.

Can't find the V5C? Read our guide to selling a car without a V5C logbook.

Paperwork that adds value

• Service history. A stamped book, printed invoices or the manufacturer's digital record. A full history is one of the biggest things buyers look for.
• MOT records. You don't need the paper certificate any more. Every MOT since 2005 is online and anyone can check it on GOV.UK. Receipts for work done to pass an MOT are still worth keeping.
• Receipts for big jobs. A clutch, cambelt, tyres, brakes or battery tell the next owner what they won't have to pay for.
• The owner's manual and handbook pack.
• The locking wheel nut key. Check it's in the car.

If there's finance on the car

With hire purchase (HP) or personal contract purchase (PCP), the finance company owns the car until you've paid it off. You'll need a settlement figure from your lender showing exactly what it costs to clear the agreement. A private buyer will want proof it's been paid before they hand over money. Our guide to selling a car on finance explains your options.

Private number plates

If the car has a private plate you want to keep, take it off before you sell. You can do this online through the DVLA. There's a fee, and you'll get a retention document so you can put the number on another car later. Once the car has been sold with the plate on, getting it back is very hard.

On the day of the sale

• Tell the DVLA. It's a legal requirement, and the quickest way is online with the V5C reference number. Our DVLA guide covers private and trade sales.
• Give the buyer the right part of the V5C. A private buyer gets the green new keeper slip. For a motor trader, follow the instructions on the V5C or use the online service.
• Vehicle tax doesn't transfer. Once the DVLA knows, you get a refund for any full months left and your Direct Debit is cancelled.
• Cancel or move your insurance once the car has gone.
• Take the car off any manufacturer app, TfL Auto Pay, Dart Charge, your residents' parking permit and your breakdown cover.
• Unpair your phone, clear saved addresses from the sat nav and sign out of any in-car apps.
• Check the boot, glovebox, door pockets and under the seats.

Quick checklist

Put these in one folder before the buyer arrives:

• V5C logbook, or proof you've applied for a new one
• Photo ID and proof of address
• Service book and invoices
• Receipts for recent work
• Finance settlement letter, if you have finance
• Both keys, the locking wheel nut key and the manuals
• Retention document, if you've taken off a private plate

With all that ready, a buyer has no reason to knock money off the agreed price.