The V5C/2 Green Slip Explained: What the New Keeper Slip Does (UK)

Quick answer: The V5C/2 (the green “new keeper” slip torn from the seller’s V5C) is your temporary proof while DVLA registers you. Its 12-digit reference taxes the car immediately — online or by phone — and it covers you until the full V5C in your name arrives (usually about five days when the seller notified DVLA online; longer by post). No slip? You’ll need a V62 (£25) — and a little more patience.

What the green slip actually is

When a car is sold, the seller keeps the V5C and tells DVLA about the sale; the buyer keeps section 2 — the V5C/2. It’s evidence that you’ve given DVLA notice of becoming the keeper, and it carries the reference number the tax system accepts.

What to do with it, in order

• Before driving away: tax the car with the 12-digit reference at gov.uk/vehicle-tax. Road tax does not transfer with the car — ever.
• Keep it safe until the full V5C arrives in your name.
• Chase DVLA if nothing arrives within 4–6 weeks — if the seller notified online it should be about 5 working days; postal notifications take longer.

Bought a car and got no green slip?

Alarm bells only if it comes with other red flags (see fake logbook warning signs). Legitimately, the seller may have already notified DVLA online — in which case your V5C is on its way. If nothing arrives, apply with a V62; the £25 fee is waived where the seller genuinely notified DVLA and you apply within a reasonable time... in practice DVLA issues the V5C free where the sale was properly notified. To tax it meanwhile, use the V62 + Post Office route from our taxing without a logbook guide.

FAQs

Can I drive the car home on the green slip?
Yes — provided the car is taxed (do it with the slip before setting off), insured for you, and has a valid MOT.

How long is the V5C/2 valid?
It has no printed expiry, but treat it as bridge paperwork — if the full V5C hasn’t arrived within 6 weeks, act.

Related guides

• The V5C decoded: every section explained
• How to apply for a V5C
• Lost your V5C? What to do
• The V62 form explained

Sources

gov.ukTax your vehiclegov.ukGet a vehicle log book (V5C)