What documents do you need to sell your car?

If you are selling a car for the first time, it can be a confusing process, and it’s obviously something that you want to get right. Having the correct documents at hand straight away can also speed up the selling process, and as many off this list as possible could help you to get more for your car.

Here at LG Car Sales, we are happy to offer our advice and a helping hand to guide you along the way. If you are concerned as to what documents you will need, here is our list:

V5C Logbook

The V5C is one of the most important documents to have at hand when selling your car, as without it, potential buyers can be put off. This is because it has all the information about your car that the buyer will need to know - including the vehicle identification number, the date it was first registered, the engine size, and lots of other important information. The buyer will want to ensure all these details match the car they’re buying.

As well as this, it shows who is the registered keeper of the vehicle, however this doesn’t prove you own the vehicle.

When you come to sell your car, you need to give the green ‘new keeper’ slip to the buyer, and then inform the DVLA online that you’ve sold your car. 

Service history

While having your car regularly serviced isn’t a legal requirement, having proof of a full service history can give potential buyers extra reassurance that the car has been cared for during ownership, and will help increase its value. 

If you don’t have a service book, then at least try to provide receipts for any servicing you’ve had carried out on the vehicle. 

Previous MOT certificates

Hard copy MOT certificates aren’t a must have anymore, as all MOT history can be found online via the gov.uk website. However, if you’re selling an older or classic car, it’s a good idea to keep or find the physical copies. 

Any receipts for parts

If you’ve had to have repair work carried out on your car while you’ve owned it, having receipts can show buyers what parts have been fitted, and how long ago. Especially if manufacturer approved parts have been used, this will help to increase the value, and put trust in the buyer you’ve cared for the car while it’s been in your ownership.
 

Identification

You’ll also need a photo form of ID, proof of address and your bank details to hand when selling your car too. 

Want to learn more about selling your car? Read some of our related articles:

Tips for selling your car

Sell private or sell to a dealership?