We do not recommend buying a vehicle without the V5C or MOT (vehicles less than 3 years old do not need an MOT).
If you do buy a vehicle without these certificates, you will not be covered under the terms of the data guarantee.
If the seller states that they have sent the V5C to the DVLA, wait for it to come back before completing the purchase.
Buying privately?
Make sure you are buying from the registered keeper at their address
Check the ID of the seller, such as a passport and a recent utility bill. This should match with the name and address of the registered keeper on the V5C.
Buying from a dealer?
If you are buying from a trader you will need to question why the V5C and/or MOT are unavailable.
The dealer may not have the V5C if it’s been sent to the DVLA for a number plate change.