At a Northern Ireland car handover, the V5C log book should be treated as part of the transaction, not as an afterthought to post later. It identifies the registered keeper for vehicle records, but it is not by itself proof of legal ownership. Check the document against the car’s registration and VIN, and record the buyer, seller, date and agreed price on a receipt.
Notify DVLA and give the buyer the new-keeper slip
The seller must tell DVLA that the vehicle has been sold. The official online service allows the registered keeper to notify the change; the buyer should receive the green new-keeper slip (V5C/2) when the log book is completed. If the V5C is missing, the normal online change service cannot be used, and DVLA says the new keeper may need to apply for a registration certificate using form V62. Resolve this before payment if possible, rather than accepting “the log book is on its way” without evidence.
Tax the car in the new keeper’s name
Vehicle tax does not move to the buyer. The buyer must tax the car or declare it off the road before using it. That is why a valid-looking tax disc or the seller’s direct debit is not enough. Check tax status and vehicle details, then complete the new tax transaction under your own reference.
Keep the transfer record with the sale documents
Keep the change-of-keeper confirmation and proof of payment. The seller should retain their confirmation too: DVLA says the registered keeper remains responsible until the sale is recorded. If buying from a trader, make sure the business records the purchase correctly. If the car is being exported to the Republic of Ireland, keeper transfer is only one step; the NI import checklist covers the separate process.
