Buying a car that currently has a private plate on

[mikemike39]

Seen a car which I've agreed to buy subject to a few small things being done

It's on a private plate which the vendor wants to keep

I realise the onus is on him to get this sorted...

But basically what are the steps required so that I can drive the vehicle away with the correct DVLA plate - the one the vehicle originally had before the private plate was put on. Correctly and legally taxed. With ownership legally mine.

How long is the procedure likely to take if actioned tomorrow?

Would it be any different if the vehicle is owned by a dealer (whether it's stock or his "personal" vehicle)?

Many thanks

Mike

[Speed 3]

mikemike39 said:

Seen a car which I've agreed to buy subject to a few small things being done

It's on a private plate which the vendor wants to keep

I realise the onus is on him to get this sorted...

But basically what are the steps required so that I can drive the vehicle away with the correct DVLA plate - the one the vehicle originally had before the private plate was put on. Correctly and legally taxed. With ownership legally mine.

How long is the procedure likely to take if actioned tomorrow?

Would it be any different if the vehicle is owned by a dealer (whether it's stock or his "personal" vehicle)?

Many thanks

Mike

Reg transfer can normally be done online during DVLA working hours so can be performed prior to sale to you. Sometimes computer says no and you have to do it by post. This only affects the V5 (which is not a title of ownership in any case). If you're happy to complete the sale with a form of sales document for your own interest then legally you're ok to take it, insure it, tax it etc. although may need an overnight refresh to do the RFL. V5 will be re-issued to the current keeper who will then be able to do the transfer to you and you get a new V5 within a couple of weeks.

I've done this multiple times over many years with 2 private reg's. It is now normally painless unless you're using a Motorway/Carwow type sale in which case it extends things by a few weeks.

Edited by Speed 3 on Tuesday 10th October 21:57