Transferring Ownership of the Plate at Sale – Preston & Leyland
When selling a vehicle in Preston or Leyland, one often-overlooked detail is transferring ownership of the plate at sale. Whether your plate is a personal investment or simply a cherished registration, it’s vital to handle the transfer correctly to protect your rights and avoid disputes.
Why Transferring the Plate Matters
Your private plate is a separate asset from the vehicle itself. If the transfer isn’t managed properly, you could lose the right to use it in the future. The DVLA requires all changes to be officially recorded, ensuring the new registered keeper details are accurate.
Two Main Scenarios
1. Selling the Vehicle but Keeping the Plate
If you want to keep your plate for future use, you must retain it with the DVLA before completing the sale. This process moves the plate onto a retention certificate (V778) and returns the car to its original age-related registration.
2. Selling the Vehicle and the Plate Together
If you’re happy for the buyer to take the plate along with the car, you can complete a direct transfer with the DVLA. This ensures the plate and vehicle ownership are updated in one go.
Step-by-Step Transfer Guide
Step 1 – Decide Ownership Before Sale
Discuss the plate with the buyer before you agree the sale. Clearly state in the agreement whether the plate is included or not.
Step 2 – Complete DVLA Transfer or Retention
Use the official DVLA online service for speed:
You’ll need the V5C logbook, an £80 transfer fee (if applicable), and the registered keeper’s consent if that’s not you.
Step 3 – Update Insurance
Once the plate is transferred or retained, notify your insurer to ensure your policy matches the correct registration.
Costs and Timelines
- DVLA fee: £80 (transfer or retention)
- Number plates: £20–£40
- Online transfers are often instant, postal applications take 2–4 weeks
Local Tips for Preston & Leyland
In Preston, many dealerships will assist with DVLA plate transfers during a part-exchange. In Leyland, private sellers often complete the process themselves online for faster results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to decide plate ownership before sale
- Not retaining the plate before handing over the vehicle
- Forgetting to update your insurance
- Incomplete or incorrect DVLA paperwork
Selling Your Plate Separately
If your plate is valuable, you might sell it separately via a plate dealer or auction. You’ll still need to retain it with the DVLA before sale.
Conclusion
For smooth transferring ownership of the plate at sale in Preston and Leyland, plan ahead, decide ownership early, and use the DVLA’s official services. It protects your plate and ensures the sale goes through without complications.
Learn more about our Private Plate Retention service here to prepare for your vehicle sale.