What the V5C shows
The V5C logbook shows who keeps a car, not who owns it. When you buy, check that the keeper's name and address match the seller's ID and where you are meeting. If the name or address doesn't match, ask why before you go any further. Then check that the VIN matches the car.
Find the VIN on the windscreen, the door pillar and the V5C. It is 17 characters long and never uses the letters I, O or Q. If any of the three don't match, don't hand over any money until you're satisfied.
For more than the logbook, a Full Check (£9.99) covers finance, stolen and write-off records, plus keepers and VIN details. Run it before you pay, and see the car history check page for what's included.
Checks when buying
Match the keeper to the seller. The V5C logbook shows who keeps a car, not who owns it. Ask for the seller's photo ID and the logbook, and check that the name and address match the ID and the place you're meeting. If they don't, ask why before you pay anything.
Check the VIN matches the car. The VIN is 17 characters long and sits on the windscreen, the door pillar and the V5C. It never uses the letters I, O or Q. Compare all three with the logbook, and walk away if any of them don't match. You can run a VIN check for more detail.
No logbook is a red flag. Don't buy a car if the seller can't show you a V5C. Also ask whether the car is on finance, because a finance company can own it until the last payment. A Full Check at £9.99 covers finance, stolen, write-off and keeper records.
After you buy
Once the money has changed hands, check the paperwork has moved with the car. Ask the seller for the new keeper slip from the V5C and make sure they send it to the DVLA. The new logbook should arrive in your name. If it doesn't, contact the DVLA rather than waiting.
You must tax the car before you drive it, because tax doesn't transfer to a new keeper. Your rate depends on the car's registration date, so check the cost with our car tax calculator first. Paying monthly by Direct Debit costs 5% more than one payment.
Then check the MOT. Driving without a valid MOT can bring a fine of up to £1,000, unless you're heading to a booked test or to repairs. The MOT history shows when the next test is due and what was flagged last time, so look it up with our MOT history check before you set off.