What’s the Cost to Change a Car Keeper?
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What’s the Cost to Change a Car Keeper?

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Here’s a straightforward guide on what is cost to change a car keeper, any indirect costs to consider, and a step-by-step on how to make the change smoothly. If you’re buying, selling, or transferring a car to someone else, you’ll need to officially change the car’s registered keeper. In the UK, this process is pretty simple—and surprisingly, it’s free!

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What Does “Car Keeper” Mean?

The registered keeper of a car is the person or company responsible for the car’s day-to-day use and upkeep, and who is accountable for its legal responsibilities. While most of us assume the registered keeper and owner are the same, that’s not always true. For example, in leasing, the leasing company owns the car, but the person leasing it is the registered keeper.

So, What’s the Cost to Change a Car Keeper?

The good news? In the UK, changing the registered keeper is free when you do it through the DVLA online or by using the V5C registration document (the logbook). While there’s no fee to actually make the change, there are a few other potential costs you may want to keep in mind.

  1. Insurance Costs: The new keeper may see a difference in insurance premiums based on their age, driving history, location, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to get an updated insurance quote as the new keeper.
  2. Road Tax: In the UK, road tax doesn’t transfer with the car. The new keeper will need to re-tax the vehicle, and the previous keeper will get a refund for any full months of remaining tax. This isn’t a fee for changing keepers, but it’s something to remember when budgeting for the transfer.
  3. Vehicle History Check: If you’re the new keeper of a used car, a vehicle history check is often worth it. It can reveal any hidden issues, like unpaid finance, previous accidents, or mileage discrepancies. While not required, it provides peace of mind and usually costs around £10 to £30.

How to Change the Car Keeper Online

The quickest and easiest way to change the car’s registered keeper is online through the DVLA. Here’s how:

  1. Grab the V5C Document: Both the current and new keeper will need the 11-digit reference number from the car’s V5C document.
  2. Visit the DVLA Website: Go to the DVLA’s vehicle registration page and follow the instructions for a keeper transfer.
  3. Fill in the Details: You’ll need to provide basic details about the current and new keeper, along with some information about the car.
  4. Confirm and Submit: Double-check everything and submit the form to complete the process.
  5. Get Confirmation: Once you’re done, the DVLA sends a confirmation email to both parties, and the new V5C document should arrive in about five working days.

Changing the Car Keeper by Post

If you prefer not to do it online, you can change the car keeper by post. Here’s what to do:

  1. Complete the V5C Document: The current keeper should fill in Section 6 with the new keeper’s name and address. Both the current and new keeper should sign Section 8.
  2. Mail it to the DVLA: The current keeper keeps the green “new keeper” slip (Section 10) and mails the rest of the V5C document to the DVLA.
  3. Wait for the New V5C: The new keeper will receive the updated V5C document within two to four weeks.

How Long Does the Transfer Take?

  • Online Transfers: Typically, the new V5C arrives within five working days.
  • By Post: Processing takes a bit longer, around two to four weeks.

What to Do After Changing the Keeper

Once the transfer is done, here’s what the new keeper should take care of:

  1. Get Insurance: Set up insurance coverage before driving the car. Since premiums vary, it’s worth shopping around for quotes in advance.
  2. Tax the Vehicle: Remember, road tax doesn’t carry over to the new keeper, so you’ll need to tax the car before taking it on the road. This can be done online, by phone, or at a Post Office.
  3. Check the MOT Status: If the car’s MOT is due soon, make sure it’s up-to-date to avoid fines and keep the car road-legal.

Other Costs to Consider

While there’s no direct fee for changing the car keeper, there are a few other costs to keep in mind:

  • Administration Fees: Some insurance companies may charge a small fee to update the registered keeper details, so it’s worth checking with your provider if you’re switching keepers.
  • Vehicle History Report: If you’re the new keeper, a full history report (like an HPI check) can provide useful insights on the car’s background. This isn’t required, but it’s often worth it.
  • Upcoming MOT or Maintenance: If the car’s MOT is coming up, or if maintenance is due, these costs are also worth budgeting for as a new keeper.

Final Thoughts

Changing the registered keeper of a car is easy, free, and typically hassle-free. Whether you do it online or by post, knowing the steps involved and what to expect after the transfer makes everything smoother. While there are no direct fees, be sure to factor in insurance, tax, and any potential inspection or maintenance costs to avoid surprises. This way, you’re all set for a smooth transition into car ownership!

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