Hi. I've just bought a used car and would like to know what to do afterwards. I know I will have to buy insurance, but what else do I need to do, and how do I do it. I am guessing I have to go to the post office to fill out some forms, and pay money, but I am not completely sure. Thanks.

COPE3:Hi. I've just bought a used car and would like to know what to do afterwards. I know I will have to buy insurance, but what else do I need to do, and how do I do it. I am guessing I have to go to the post office to fill out some forms, and pay money, but I am not completely sure. Thanks.

You should have been given the V5 registration document if private purchase to send to DVLA with your details. If you bought it from a dealer, they will send it to the DVLA on your behalf and you will get it back within a week or so.

See DVLA guide http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/BuyingAndSellingAVehicle/index.htm

Why would you be going to the post office and paying any money. It there no road tax?

If bought from a garage and there is a warranty, check the car throughly and get any faults that may be covered fixed by the garage.

Huckster

How exactly does road tax work? Car ownership is new to me. The dealer told me I had to pay tax.

COPE3:How exactly does road tax work? Car ownership is new to me. The dealer told me I had to pay tax.

You need to take the V5 vehicle registration document, your Car insurance certificate and MOT if relevant to the post office. You need to complete the V5 with your details. At the post office they should have a form, for applying for the road tax, without having the DVLA tax renewal document. If you ask them, they will tell you the form you need to fill out. The post office counter staff will the provide you with the tax disc to put on your windscreen and they will usually send the V5 and tax disc form to the DVLA for you. The DVLA will then register and send the V5 back to you showing you as the registered owner and keeper.

Huckster