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Private car sale agreement

Record the buyer, seller, exact car description, agreed price and physical handover. Compare serial numbers, the item and the available ownership or registration records before signing.

Check the registration mark, VIN, seller identity, V5C details, MOT history, recall status, mileage, finance indicators, keys and observed condition. A V5C records the registered keeper and is not proof of ownership.

The seller and buyer must complete the current DVLA or DVA keeper process separately. Existing vehicle tax does not transfer to the buyer, and an MOT certificate is not a guarantee that the car is roadworthy.

This private agreement records the facts and promises reviewed by the parties. It does not notify an authority, prove ownership in every case or replace an official form, tax, insurance, registry or registration step.

Three clear steps

Choose the item, record the facts and review one complete agreement together.

1

Choose the item

Start with a car, motorcycle, trailer, caravan, boat, moped or scooter, or collectible.

2

Document the transaction

Record identities, item details, observed condition, disclosures, price, payment and included items.

3

Review and keep a copy

Check every answer together, download the PDF and complete all official steps separately.

FAQ

What is a private sale agreement?+

It is a record of the parties, item, condition, price, payment and handover terms agreed in a private transaction.

Does the agreement transfer legal ownership?+

It records the parties’ agreement but does not by itself notify an authority, prove title in every case or replace the official process for the item.

Does Signeret notify DVLA or DVA?+

No. The seller and buyer must complete the current DVLA or DVA process themselves when it applies.

What should I do with the V5C?+

Check that the details match the vehicle and follow the current official instructions for the sale. A V5C is not proof of ownership.

Guides

Used car buyer checklist for a UK private sale

Used car buyer checklist for a UK private sale. UK-specific documentation, nation exceptions, official-process boundaries, payment, handover and evidence for a private transaction.

8 minute read

Private car seller checklist before handover

Private car seller checklist before handover. UK-specific documentation, nation exceptions, official-process boundaries, payment, handover and evidence for a private transaction.

8 minute read

Safer payment for a UK private vehicle sale

Safer payment for a UK private vehicle sale. UK-specific documentation, nation exceptions, official-process boundaries, payment, handover and evidence for a private transaction.

8 minute read

Agreements

MotorcycleTrailerCaravanBoatMoped or scooterCollectible