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Buying & Selling Used Cars

What documents should I get when buying a used car?

At minimum, check the V5C and keep the green new-keeper slip, plus the sales receipt; also collect service history, MOT information and any warranty or finance-settlement evidence that applies.

GOV.UK says the seller should give the buyer the green 'new keeper' slip when a used vehicle changes keeper. The seller then tells DVLA about the change, either online or by post.

The V5C details should match the vehicle, including the registration and VIN. Ask for service records, invoices, manuals, spare keys and evidence for any major repairs or claimed recent work.

If the car had finance, obtain proof it is cleared. If sold by a dealer, keep the order form, advert, invoice and warranty paperwork because they can help show what was represented at the point of sale.

For 'What documents should I get when buying a used car?', keep a written record of the exact vehicle, seller details and checks you relied on before payment. That evidence is far more useful later than relying on memory or verbal promises.

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Information checked: 25 September 2026
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