Vehicle Ownership Transfer Guide
Completing the VRC (Vehicle Registration Certificate) transfer is a legal requirement in Ireland. This guide walks both buyer and seller through each step.
For the Seller
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1
Complete Section 2 of the VRC (log book)
Fill in your name, address, date of sale, and the buyer's name and address. Sign in the seller section. Do not leave any section blank.
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2
Send the yellow Section 1 to the DVLA/Revenue
Detach the yellow slip (Section 1 / V5C/3) and post it to the DVLA (UK) or Revenue Commissioners (Republic of Ireland) within 7 days of the sale. Keep proof of posting.
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3
Hand the main VRC section to the buyer
Give the buyer the main section of the VRC (not the yellow slip). Without this, they cannot register the vehicle in their name.
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4
Keep a record of the sale
Write a simple receipt including the vehicle registration, chassis number, date of sale, agreed price, and both parties' full names and addresses. Both parties should sign a copy.
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5
Cancel your motor insurance and tax
Contact your insurer to remove the vehicle from your policy and apply for a refund of remaining motor tax if applicable. Do this on the day of sale.
For the Buyer
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1
Register the vehicle in your name
Republic of Ireland: Submit the VRC to the NVDF (National Vehicle & Driver File) via the Motor Tax Online system or at your local Motor Tax office within 30 days.
Northern Ireland: Complete the V5C new keeper section and send to DVLA, Swansea SA99 1BD. You can also update your details online at gov.uk/change-name-address-v5c. -
2
Insure the vehicle before driving it
You must have at minimum third-party insurance in place before moving the vehicle from the seller's address. Do not drive uninsured — even for a short journey.
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3
Check NCT/MOT is valid or book one
Verify the NCT (Republic) or MOT (Northern Ireland) expiry. If it's expired or due soon, book a test promptly — you need a valid certificate to tax the vehicle.
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4
Tax the vehicle
Motor tax does not transfer with the vehicle. Apply online at motortax.ie (Republic) or via direct debit/post office (Northern Ireland / gov.uk/vehicle-tax).
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5
Check for outstanding finance or recalls
Even after purchase, you can check for outstanding finance via Cartell or HPI Check, and for safety recalls via recalls.ie or check.vehicles.gov.uk. Act quickly if you find issues.
Important: cleared funds only
Never hand over the keys until the full agreed payment has cleared in your bank account. Cheques, banker's drafts, and unverified bank transfers have all been used in scams. If in doubt, use a bank branch transfer confirmed with the branch manager.
Full safe handover guide →