What do I need to sell my car?
Selling is straightforward when the paperwork is clean. Before signing, check the car carries no liens, seizures or retention of title that would block the transfer and stall the sale.
Why you need the report
- A retention of title (a car still on finance) or a seizure prevents the change of owner and can collapse the sale on signing day.
- A serious buyer will ask for proof of the vehicle’s status: get ahead and turn up with the official report in hand.
- Reporting the sale and proving the car’s status helps you avoid future liability for fines or taxes.
What the report shows in this case
- Liens, seizures and retention of title that would block the transfer.
- Ownership history: number of owners and changes of ownership.
- Status of the compulsory insurance.
- Roadworthiness (ITV) validity and history, with the mileage recorded at each inspection.
- Any temporary or permanent deregistrations on record.
Paperwork and steps to sell
- Valid ID (DNI/NIE) of the registered owner.
- Vehicle registration certificate.
- Technical data sheet (ITV card) with a valid roadworthiness test.
- Latest road-tax (IVTM) receipt, paid.
- Sale contract in duplicate (make, model, plate, VIN and price).
- A DGT report confirming the car carries no liens.
- Notification of the sale to the DGT once the contract is signed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a car that has liens?
You can agree the sale, but the transfer will not complete while a retention of title or seizure exists. The usual step is to clear the lien before signing so the buyer can register it in their name.
How do I know if my car has a retention of title?
It appears in the DGT report under the liens section. It usually stems from outstanding finance; until it is paid off and cancelled, the car cannot change owner.
Do I need a valid ITV to sell?
So the buyer can drive and register the car without issues, it is best to hand it over with a valid roadworthiness test. If it has expired, agree it with the buyer and reflect it in the price.
What happens if I don’t report the sale?
You will still appear as the registered owner before the DGT, with the liability that carries for fines and taxes. Reporting the sale detaches your name from the vehicle.
Can the report be used as proof to the buyer?
Yes. It is delivered as a signed official PDF with a verification code (CSV) so its authenticity can be checked, plus JSON, CSV and XLS.
Check your car before you list it
Look up your vehicle’s official status and reach the signing with your paperwork in order and no surprises.