Buy a vehicle: step by step

Check what you need to do when you buy a vehicle.

1. Step 1: Check the vehicle before you buy it

   You'll need the vehicle's registration number, make, model and MOT test number. You also need to see the V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book).

   1. Check the details you've been given match DVLA's information
   2. Check the vehicle's MOT history
   3. Check if the vehicle has been recalled because of a safety issue
   4. Check the log book is not for a stolen vehicle

2. Step 2: Buy and register the vehicle

   Once you've bought the vehicle, you have to register it. How you register it depends on whether it has a V5C registration certificate (log book).

   1. Find out how to register your vehicle
   2. Get a vehicle log book if you do not have it £25

3. and Register for MOT reminders

   You must get an MOT for your vehicle every year once it's 3 years old.

   1. Get a reminder when your MOT is due

4. Step 3: Insure the vehicle

   You must have insurance before you can use your vehicle on the road.

   1. Check if your vehicle is insured on the Motor Insurance Database
   2. Read about vehicle insurance

5. Step 4: Tax the vehicle

   You need to tax the vehicle before you can use it on the road.

   1. Check how much you’ll have to pay to tax your vehicle
   2. Check when you do not have to pay vehicle tax
   3. Tax your vehicle