Car Paperwork Checklist UK: Every Document You Need (2025)

Car ownership in the UK involves more paperwork than most first-time buyers expect. Miss a critical document and you could face fines up to £1,000, uninsured driving charges, or be unable to prove ownership.

This complete checklist covers every document you need when buying a car, what to complete and when, what to carry in your car, and what to store safely at home.

Quick Stats:

• £1,000 - Fine for no MOT certificate
• £300 + 6 points - Penalty for driving uninsured
• £1,000 - Fine for not notifying DVLA of ownership change
• 2 weeks - Legal deadline to register ownership

Reading Time: 10 minutes (save and reference throughout ownership)

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Documents You Must Receive When Buying a Car

These are the essential documents the seller MUST provide. Missing any of these is a major red flag.

1. V5C Registration Certificate (Logbook) - MANDATORY

What it is:

• Official DVLA document
• Shows registered keeper (not legal owner)
• Contains vehicle details and history
• Pink/red A4 document with watermark

Why you need it:

• Proves keeper registration
• Required to tax vehicle
• Required to sell vehicle
• Needed for DVLA notifications
• Verify vehicle legitimacy

What to check:

• ✅ Original document (not photocopy)
• ✅ Seller's name matches current keeper
• ✅ Address matches where viewing
• ✅ Registration matches vehicle
• ✅ VIN matches vehicle
• ✅ No obvious forgery signs (watermark, hologram)
• ✅ Sections 6 & 8 to be completed at sale

Red flags:

• ❌ No V5C available ("lost it", "in the post")
• ❌ Seller not registered keeper
• ❌ Recently issued V5C on old car
• ❌ Photocopy or damaged beyond reading
• ❌ Details don't match vehicle

What happens at purchase:

• Seller completes Section 6 (new keeper details)
• Seller signs Section 8
• You receive V5C/2 green slip (keep safe!)
• Seller posts main V5C to DVLA or notifies online
• New V5C arrives at your address in 2-4 weeks

NEVER buy without seeing original V5C.

Read our detailed guide: V5C Logbook Complete Guide

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2. MOT Certificate (If Vehicle 3+ Years Old) - MANDATORY

What it is:

• Annual roadworthiness test certificate
• Required for all vehicles 3+ years old
• VT20 certificate (blue/white document)
• Valid for 12 months from test date

Why you need it:

• Legal requirement to drive
• Shows vehicle roadworthy
• Reveals mileage history
• Required for road tax
• Reveals previous failures/advisories

What to check:

• ✅ Valid (not expired)
• ✅ Registration matches vehicle
• ✅ Mileage consistent with claimed mileage
• ✅ Issued by valid test center
• ✅ Readable and genuine

Red flags:

• ❌ Expired MOT
• ❌ Mileage doesn't match seller claim
• ❌ No MOT certificate for 3+ year old car
• ❌ Recent test just before sale (suspicious timing)

How to verify:

• Check online: gov.uk/check-mot-status
• View full MOT history (free)
• Check mileage consistency
• Review failure/advisory history

If MOT expires soon:

• Negotiate who pays for new MOT
• Factor £55 + potential repairs into price
• Consider pre-purchase inspection

Penalty for no MOT:

• £1,000 fine
• Insurance may be invalid
• Prosecution if accident occurs

Read more: How to Check MOT History

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3. Service History Book and Receipts - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

What it is:

• Manufacturer service book with stamps
• Service invoices and receipts
• Record of maintenance performed
• Shows care and regular servicing

Why you need it:

• Proves regular maintenance
• Increases vehicle value (£500-1,500)
• Shows potential future issues
• Warranty requirements
• Resale value

What to check:

• ✅ Service book with stamps at regular intervals
• ✅ Invoices match service book entries
• ✅ Services at manufacturer intervals (12 months or 10k-15k miles)
• ✅ Major services completed (40k, 80k miles)
• ✅ Recent service (within last 12 months)
• ✅ Reputable garages/dealerships

Full vs Partial Service History:

Type	What It Means	Value Impact
Full Service History (FSH)	Every service documented with stamps/invoices	Standard value
Partial Service History	Some services documented, gaps exist	-£300-800
No Service History	No documentation of maintenance	-£500-1,500

Red flags:

• ❌ No service book at all
• ❌ Large gaps in servicing (2+ years)
• ❌ Services missed at critical intervals
• ❌ Stamps but no matching invoices
• ❌ Stamps from unknown/dubious garages
• ❌ Handwritten entries without supporting docs

If service history missing:

• Assume major services needed
• Budget £500-1,000 for catch-up maintenance
• Negotiate price reduction
• Consider walking away (especially on premium cars)

Can sometimes verify:

• Contact franchised dealer with VIN
• They may have records from dealer services
• Won't show independent garage work

Read more: Understanding Service History

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4. Vehicle Keys - MANDATORY (At Least 2)

What you need:

• At least 2 working keys (ideally)
• Remote key fobs (if applicable)
• Spare key (critical)

Why it matters:

• Replacement keys: £100-£500 each
• Some cars require main dealer (very expensive)
• Keyless entry cars particularly expensive
• Security concern (only 1 key = previous owner kept one?)

What to check:

• ✅ Both keys work (test in locks and ignition)
• ✅ Remote fobs work (central locking)
• ✅ Keys match vehicle
• ✅ Spare key included

Red flags:

• ❌ Only 1 key ("lost the spare")
• ❌ Keys don't work smoothly
• ❌ Generic/replacement key (not original)
• ❌ Damaged key or fob

Negotiation leverage:

• Missing spare key: -£100-300
• Both keys non-original: -£200-500

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5. Owner's Manual and Wallet - RECOMMENDED

What it includes:

• Owner's manual (operating instructions)
• Service book (may be separate)
• Radio/stereo code
• Locking wheel nut key

Why useful:

• Operating instructions
• Maintenance schedule
• Troubleshooting guide
• Radio code if battery disconnected
• Resale value (completeness)

Not critical but nice to have:

• ✅ Complete manufacturer pack
• ✅ All manuals present
• ✅ Service book included
• ✅ Radio code noted

If missing:

• Can often download manuals online
• Radio code can be retrieved (dealer/online services)
• Minimal impact on value (£50-100)

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6. Locking Wheel Nut Key - ESSENTIAL (If Alloy Wheels)

What it is:

• Unique key to remove locking wheel nuts
• Prevents wheel theft
• Usually in glove box or boot

Why critical:

• Can't remove wheels without it (tyre changes, repairs)
• Replacement: £50-150 + time
• May need dealer involvement

What to check:

• ✅ Locking nut key present
• ✅ Fits the locking nuts on car
• ✅ Test it works

Red flags:

• ❌ Missing locking nut key
• ❌ Seller doesn't know where it is
• ❌ Key doesn't fit nuts

If missing:

• Negotiate £100 off
• Will need replacement or nut removal/replacement

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7. HPI/Vehicle History Check Report - ESSENTIAL

What it is:

• Third-party vehicle history report
• Checks finance, stolen status, write-offs
• YOU should obtain this (don't rely on seller)

What it reveals:

• Outstanding finance (HP/PCP)
• Stolen vehicle status
• Insurance write-off (Cat S/N/A/B)
• Mileage discrepancies
• Number plate changes
• Previous keepers
• Specification check

Cost: £10-30 Providers: Car Sorted (includes £10k-£50k data guarantee), HPI, AA, RAC, Auto Trader

NEVER skip this check:

• 1 in 3 cars has outstanding finance
• Finance company can repossess
• You lose car AND money

Read our guide: Complete HPI Check Guide

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8. Proof of Sale Receipt - MANDATORY

What it should include:

• Seller's full name and address
• Buyer's full name and address
• Vehicle registration
• Make, model, VIN
• Sale date
• Sale price
• Mileage at sale
• Both signatures
• "Sold as seen" clause (if applicable)

Why you need it:

• Proof of purchase
• Legal protection
• Price verification
• Ownership proof (until V5C arrives)
• Dispute resolution
• Tax records

Create your own if seller doesn't provide:

Vehicle Sale Receipt

Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]

Seller Details:
Name: [Full name]
Address: [Full address]
Signature: __________

Buyer Details:
Name: [Full name]
Address: [Full address]
Signature: __________

Vehicle Details:
Registration: [XX00 XXX]
Make/Model: [e.g., Ford Fiesta]
VIN: [17-digit VIN]
Mileage: [Exact mileage]
Colour: [e.g., Silver]

Sale Price: £[amount]

Condition: Sold as seen

Additional notes: [Any agreements, e.g., "MOT included", "2 keys provided"]

Keep this permanently - you may need it for warranty claims or disputes.

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9. Finance Settlement Letter (If Applicable)

What it is:

• Letter from finance company confirming finance is settled
• Shows no outstanding balance
• Clears car for sale

When needed:

• Seller recently paid off finance
• Seller buying on finance settlement

What to verify:

• ✅ Letter from legitimate finance company
• ✅ Correct vehicle registration/VIN
• ✅ States finance fully settled
• ✅ Recent date (within 1-2 weeks)

Red flags:

• ❌ "Finance being settled after sale"
• ❌ No settlement letter when recently financed
• ❌ Vague documentation

Protection:

• Still get HPI check (confirms settlement recorded)
• Keep copy of settlement letter

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10. Warranty Documents (If Applicable)

What you might receive:

• Manufacturer warranty (new/nearly new cars)
• Extended warranty paperwork
• Dealer warranty documents
• Third-party warranty policies

What to check:

• ✅ Warranty still valid
• ✅ Transferable to new owner
• ✅ Terms and conditions
• ✅ What's covered/excluded
• ✅ Claims process
• ✅ Expiry date

Keep these safe:

• May need for warranty claims
• Some warranties valuable
• Transfer process may require documentation

Read more: Car Warranties & Consumer Rights

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Documents YOU Must Complete After Purchase

After buying, you must complete these within specific timeframes to avoid fines and legal issues.

Timeline: What to Complete When

Timeframe	Document/Task	Legal Requirement	Penalty
BEFORE driving	Insurance certificate	Yes	£300 fine + 6 points + seizure
BEFORE driving	Road tax (VED)	Yes	£80 fine (up to £1,000)
Day 1	V5C notification (online)	No (but recommended)	N/A
Within 14 days	Post V5C/2 to DVLA	Yes	£1,000 fine
Within 14 days	Notify insurance of collection	Recommended	Policy may be void
2-4 weeks	Receive new V5C	Automatic	Contact DVLA if not received

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1. Insurance Certificate - COMPLETE BEFORE DRIVING

Legal requirement:

• Must have insurance BEFORE driving on public roads
• Even 1 meter requires insurance
• Certificate of insurance or cover note

What you need:

• Full insurance policy
• Certificate of insurance (motor insurance certificate)
• Proof of cover

Steps:

1. Get quotes BEFORE buying car (know cost)
2. Purchase policy before collection
3. Arrange start date/time for collection
4. Receive certificate instantly (email/download)
5. Bring proof to collection (digital or printed)

What's on the certificate:

• Your name
• Vehicle registration
• Policy number
• Start and end dates
• Level of cover (Third Party/Comprehensive)
• Insurer details

Types of cover:

• Third Party Only - Cheapest, others' damage only
• Third Party, Fire & Theft - Adds fire and theft cover
• Fully Comprehensive - Covers everything including your car

Digital vs Physical:

• Most insurers provide instant digital certificate (PDF)
• Acceptable as proof
• Police can check Motor Insurance Database (MID)
• Print copy for glove box (recommended)

Cost: £300-3,000/year (varies by age, car, location, history)

Penalty for no insurance:

• £300 fixed penalty notice
• 6-8 penalty points
• Car seized (£150+ release fee)
• Court prosecution (up to £5,000 fine)
• Driving ban possible

Read more: Car Insurance Requirements

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2. Road Tax (VED) Confirmation - TAX BEFORE DRIVING

Legal requirement:

• Must tax vehicle before driving
• Road tax doesn't transfer with vehicle
• Previous owner's tax automatically refunded

How to tax:

Option 1: Online (Fastest)

• Visit: gov.uk/vehicle-tax
• Need V5C reference number OR V5C/2 green slip reference
• Debit/credit card
• Takes 5 minutes
• Instant confirmation

Option 2: Phone

• Call: 0300 123 4321
• 24/7 automated service
• Have V5C/V5C/2 ready
• Card payment

Option 3: Post Office

• Bring V5C/2 or V5C
• Photo ID
• Payment (card or cash)
• Instant

What you'll receive:

• Email confirmation (if online)
• No physical tax disc (abolished 2014)
• ANPR cameras verify tax status

Cost (annual):

• Electric vehicles: £0
• Alternative fuel vehicles: £10 less than petrol/diesel
• Most cars (after April 2017): £190
• Check exact: gov.uk/vehicle-tax-rate-tables

Payment options:

• Annual (cheapest)
• 6 monthly (+5% surcharge)
• Monthly (Direct Debit, +5% surcharge)

Penalty for no tax:

• £80 fine (£40 if paid in 28 days)
• £1,000 if prosecuted
• Daily penalties continue
• ANPR cameras detect automatically

Read our guide: How to Tax Your Car Online

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3. V5C Registration Transfer - COMPLETE WITHIN 14 DAYS

Legal requirement:

• Notify DVLA within 14 days of becoming keeper
• Both seller and buyer have responsibilities

Seller's responsibilities:

• Complete Section 6 (new keeper details)
• Sign Section 8
• Give buyer V5C/2 green slip
• Notify DVLA (post V5C or online)
• Keep V5C/2 as proof of sale

Buyer's responsibilities:

• Receive V5C/2 green slip
• Notify DVLA within 14 days
• Wait for new V5C (2-4 weeks)

How to notify DVLA (as buyer):

Option 1: Online (Fastest)

• Visit: gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
• Enter V5C/2 reference number (green slip)
• Confirm your details
• Instant confirmation
• New V5C posted within 5 working days

Option 2: Post

• Complete V5C/2 slip
• Post to DVLA (address on form)
• Keep proof of postage
• New V5C arrives in 2-4 weeks

What's on V5C/2 green slip:

• Reference number (needed for online notification)
• New keeper details
• Date of sale
• Seller signature

What happens next:

• DVLA updates records
• New V5C printed in your name
• Posted to your address
• Keep new V5C safe

If new V5C doesn't arrive:

• Wait 4-6 weeks
• Contact DVLA: 0300 790 6802
• May need to apply for duplicate (free if first-time, £25 for replacements)

Penalty for not notifying:

• £1,000 fine
• Parking/speeding fines go to previous owner
• Can't prove keeper status
• Issues selling car later

Read our guide: Transferring Car Ownership

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4. Insurance Notification of Collection

Requirement:

• Inform insurer once car collected
• Confirm details correct
• Activate cover

What to do:

• Call insurer on collection day
• Confirm car collected
• Verify policy details
• Confirm start time/date
• Note reference number

Why this matters:

• Ensures cover active
• Confirms vehicle details correct
• Updates insurer records
• Avoids policy issues

Not a legal document but important for protection.

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Documents to Keep IN Your Car (At All Times)

These documents should be carried in your vehicle for police checks, breakdowns, and emergencies.

What to Keep in Glove Box:

1. Insurance Certificate or Policy Schedule

• Not legally required to carry
• Police can check Motor Insurance Database (MID)
• Useful to have for reference
• Digital copy on phone is acceptable

2. MOT Certificate (If Applicable)

• Not legally required to carry
• Police can check online
• Useful for reference
• Breakdown services may ask

3. Breakdown Cover Card

• AA, RAC, Green Flag membership card
• Emergency contact number
• Membership number
• Keep in glove box or wallet

4. Parking Permits (If Applicable)

• Resident parking permit
• Work parking pass
• Disabled blue badge
• Display as required

5. Locking Wheel Nut Key

• Essential if you have alloy wheels
• Keep in car (boot compartment)
• May need roadside if puncture

Documents NOT Required in Car:

• ❌ V5C logbook (keep at home - NOT in car)
• ❌ Purchase receipt (keep at home)
• ❌ Service history (keep at home)
• ❌ Finance documents (keep at home)

Why not keep V5C in car:

• If car stolen, thieves have logbook
• Easier to sell/export stolen car
• Identity fraud risk
• DVLA recommends keeping at home

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Documents to Keep at Home (Safely Stored)

These critical documents should be stored securely at home, not in the vehicle.

Essential Documents (Keep Permanently)

1. V5C Registration Certificate

• Keep in safe place at home
• NOT in the car
• Needed for: selling, taxing, DVLA notifications
• Store in folder/filing cabinet
• Keep until you sell car

2. Purchase Receipt/Sales Invoice

• Proof of purchase
• Price verification
• Warranty reference
• Keep permanently (may need for disputes)

3. Finance Agreement (If Applicable)

• HP/PCP/loan agreement
• Payment schedule
• Total amount payable
• APR details
• Early settlement terms
• Keep until finance fully settled + 6 years

4. Warranty Documents

• Manufacturer warranty certificate
• Extended warranty policy
• Terms and conditions
• Claims process
• Keep until warranty expires + 1 year

5. Service History Records

• Service book with stamps
• All service invoices/receipts
• Major repair bills
• Parts receipts
• Keep permanently (increases resale value)

6. MOT Certificates

• Current MOT certificate
• Previous MOT certificates (optional but useful)
• Keep current + previous years

7. Insurance Policy Documents

• Full policy wording
• Policy schedule
• Renewal notices
• Keep current year + previous year

8. Modification Receipts (If Applicable)

• Receipts for aftermarket parts
• Installation invoices
• Insurance approval letters
• Keep permanently

9. Accident/Damage Reports

• Accident report forms
• Insurance claim correspondence
• Repair invoices
• Photos
• Keep for 6 years minimum

10. Correspondence with DVLA

• V5C applications
• Address changes
• Registration transfers
• Keep for 2 years

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How Long to Keep Car Documents

Legal requirements and best practices for document retention:

Document	How Long to Keep	Reason
V5C Logbook	Until car sold	Ongoing legal requirement
Current MOT	Until next MOT	Legal requirement (3+ year old cars)
Previous MOTs	3+ years	Mileage verification, history
Insurance certificate	Current + 1 previous year	Proof of cover, claims
Road tax confirmation	1 year	Verification (if questioned)
Purchase receipt	Permanently	Ownership proof, warranty
Service history	Permanently	Resale value, warranty
Finance agreement	Fully settled + 6 years	Legal requirement (debt records)
Warranty docs	Until expiry + 1 year	Claims, disputes
Accident reports	6 years minimum	Insurance, legal claims
DVLA correspondence	2 years	Verification

Storage recommendations:

• Use document folder or filing box
• Label clearly: "Car Documents - [Registration]"
• Keep digital copies (scan/photo backup)
• Store in dry, safe location
• Update annually (remove expired docs)

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What to Do If Documents Are Missing

Missing documents can often be replaced or worked around.

Missing V5C Logbook

If you're buying:

• ❌ DO NOT buy without V5C
• Major red flag
• Possible stolen/finance issues
• Walk away

If you've lost yours:

• Apply for replacement: gov.uk/vehicle-log-book
• Cost: £25
• Takes: 5 working days
• Need: vehicle registration, keeper details

Missing MOT Certificate

Check online first:

• Visit: gov.uk/check-mot-status
• View current MOT status
• See expiry date
• Download/print confirmation

If expired:

• Book MOT immediately
• Cannot legally drive without it (3+ year old cars)
• Exception: driving TO pre-booked MOT appointment

Missing Service History

Options:

1. Contact franchised dealer with VIN

   • May have records of dealer services
   • Usually free
   • Won't show independent garage work

2. Recreate with receipts

   • Gather any service receipts you have
   • Better than nothing
   • Partial history reduces value impact

3. Accept reduced value

   • Missing FSH = -£500-1,500 value
   • Factor into purchase price
   • Budget for catch-up servicing

Missing Keys

Replacement options:

Option 1: Main Dealer

• Most secure
• Expensive: £150-500 per key
• Need V5C and ID proof
• Takes: 1-7 days

Option 2: Auto Locksmith

• Cheaper: £100-300
• Mobile service
• Usually same-day
• Need ownership proof

Option 3: Online Key Services

• Cheapest: £50-200
• Mail-in service
• Takes: 3-10 days
• Varying quality

Missing Locking Wheel Nut Key

Options:

1. Dealer replacement

   • If original locking nuts
   • Need code or pattern
   • £50-100

2. Universal removal kit

   • DIY: £30-50
   • May damage nuts
   • Requires replacement nuts

3. Professional removal

   • Garage/mobile service
   • £50-100
   • Clean removal
   • Supply new locking set

Missing Insurance Certificate

Easy fix:

• Contact your insurer
• Request duplicate certificate
• Usually instant (email)
• Free

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Special Cases: Additional Documents

Imported Vehicles

Additional documents needed:

• Import documentation
• Customs clearance (if applicable)
• V55/4 or V55/5 (first registration)
• European Certificate of Conformity
• IVA certificate (if applicable)
• VAT receipt (if applicable)

Modified Vehicles

Additional documents needed:

• Modification receipts
• Engineering certificates (if structural)
• Insurance approval letter
• SVA/IVA certificate (if applicable)
• Manufacturer compliance certificates

Company Cars

Additional documents needed:

• Letter from company (authorizing use/sale)
• Company V5C (if company registered keeper)
• Lease agreement (if applicable)
• Company ID/authority

Inherited Vehicles

Additional documents needed:

• Probate documents
• Death certificate
• V5C transfer (executor to beneficiary)
• Proof of inheritance
• Executor authority

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Common Document Questions

Do I need to carry my V5C in the car?

No. Keep V5C safely at home. If car is stolen with V5C inside, thieves can more easily sell or export the vehicle.

Can I drive while waiting for new V5C?

Yes. As long as:

• You have V5C/2 green slip (proof of notification)
• You're insured
• Vehicle is taxed
• MOT is valid (if 3+ years old)

The V5C/2 green slip proves you've notified DVLA of the transfer.

What if seller won't give me the V5C?

Walk away. This is a major red flag:

• Possible stolen car
• Outstanding finance
• Seller not legitimate owner
• Legal issues

Never buy without original V5C.

Do I need paper insurance certificate?

No, but helpful. Digital copy on phone is acceptable. Police check Motor Insurance Database (MID) which updates when you purchase insurance.

Best practice:

• Keep digital copy on phone
• Print copy for glove box
• Have policy number memorized/accessible

What if my V5C doesn't arrive after 4 weeks?

Contact DVLA:

• Phone: 0300 790 6802
• Check they have correct address
• Verify transfer processed
• May need duplicate (free if lost in post)

Can I sell a car without V5C?

Technically yes, but:

• Very difficult
• Buyers will refuse
• Significantly reduces value
• Apply for replacement first (£25, 5 days)

Do I need to keep old MOT certificates?

Not legally required, but useful:

• Proves mileage consistency
• Shows vehicle history
• Helpful when selling
• Keep 3+ years if possible

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Complete Paperwork Checklist

Use this as your master checklist when buying and throughout ownership:

When Buying a Car - Documents to Receive

Essential (DO NOT BUY without these):

• Original V5C registration certificate (not photocopy)
• Valid MOT certificate (if 3+ years old)
• At least 1 working key (ideally 2)
• Proof of sale receipt (create if seller doesn't provide)
• HPI/vehicle history check (you obtain this)

Highly Recommended:

• Full service history (book + invoices)
• Spare key (2 keys total)
• Locking wheel nut key (if alloy wheels)
• Owner's manual and wallet
• Insurance settlement letter (if recently financed)

Nice to Have:

• Previous MOT certificates
• Warranty documents (if applicable)
• Modification receipts (if modified)
• Radio code

After Purchase - Documents to Complete

BEFORE Driving:

• Insurance certificate obtained and active
• Road tax paid (online/phone/Post Office)
• Insurance cover start time confirmed

Day 1:

• V5C/2 green slip received from seller
• Notify DVLA online (optional but recommended)
• Photos taken of all documents
• Purchase receipt created and signed

Within 14 Days:

• V5C/2 posted to DVLA (or notified online)
• Proof of postage kept
• Insurance updated with collection details

Within 2-4 Weeks:

• New V5C received and stored safely at home
• Contact DVLA if not received after 4 weeks

Documents to Keep IN Car

In Glove Box:

• Insurance certificate or digital copy accessible
• Breakdown cover membership card
• Parking permits (if applicable)
• MOT certificate copy (optional but useful)

In Boot:

• Locking wheel nut key (if applicable)

DO NOT Keep in Car:

• ❌ V5C logbook (keep at home)
• ❌ Service history (keep at home)
• ❌ Purchase receipt (keep at home)

Documents to Keep at Home (Safely Stored)

Critical Documents:

• V5C registration certificate
• Purchase receipt/sales invoice
• Insurance policy documents (current year)
• Current MOT certificate
• Service history book and invoices
• Warranty documents (if applicable)
• Finance agreement (if applicable)
• Spare keys

Supporting Documents:

• Previous MOT certificates
• Modification receipts (if applicable)
• Previous insurance documents (1 year)
• DVLA correspondence
• Accident reports/claims (if any)

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Document Management Tips

1. Create a Car Document Folder

• Use lever arch folder or document box
• Label clearly with vehicle registration
• Dividers for categories: Legal, Insurance, Service, Finance

2. Digital Backup System

• Scan or photograph all documents
• Store in cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox)
• Folder name: "Car - [Registration]"
• Update when new documents received

3. Annual Review

• Once per year, review folder
• Remove expired documents (keep some for history)
• Ensure all current documents present
• Update digital backup

4. Prepare for Sale

• Keep all service receipts
• Maintain chronological order
• Complete documentation increases value
• Buyers pay more for good paperwork

5. Emergency Access

• Keep emergency contact list in glove box
• Include: insurance, breakdown, emergency contacts
• Note policy/membership numbers

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Summary: Your Essential Paperwork Checklist

NEVER buy without:

1. Original V5C logbook
2. Valid MOT (if 3+ years old)
3. At least 1 working key
4. Proof of sale receipt

ALWAYS complete before driving:

1. Insurance certificate (active)
2. Road tax paid
3. Cover confirmed

MUST complete within 14 days:

1. Notify DVLA of ownership (V5C/2)

Keep IN car:

1. Insurance proof (digital acceptable)
2. Breakdown card
3. Locking wheel nut key

Keep at HOME (safely):

1. V5C logbook
2. Purchase receipt
3. Service history
4. Insurance policy
5. Warranty documents

Follow this checklist and you'll have all the paperwork you need, stored correctly, and completed on time—avoiding fines, legal issues, and keeping your car ownership simple.

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Next Steps

Now you know exactly what paperwork you need:

Before buying:

• Read: How to Buy a Car UK Complete Guide
• Learn: V5C Logbook Guide
• Understand: HPI Check Guide

After buying:

• Follow: First Steps After Buying
• Complete: Transferring Car Ownership
• Tax online: How to Tax Your Car

Legal protection:

• Know: Car Warranties & Consumer Rights
• Requirements: Car Insurance Requirements

Save this guide and reference throughout your car buying journey and ownership!