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Little-known DVLA rule could see UK drivers fined £1,000 for simple mistake

Vehicle specialist Sean Wright warns that drivers face a £1,000 fine if they fail to notify the DVLA immediately after selling or scrapping a vehicle, creating ongoing liability for the previous owner.
Selling or scrapping a vehicle does not automatically remove the owner from the DVLA database, Wright highlights, allowing enforcement letters to reach the previous keeper even if someone else now uses the car.
Drivers should keep copies of completed forms, payment records, and V5C details, Wright advised; motorists must receive a Certificate of Destruction after scrapping, contacting the DVLA if it fails to arrive after four weeks.
Authorised treatment facilities in England or Wales cannot legally pay cash for scrap vehicles, Wright noted, urging motorists to use bank transfers or cheques and treat dealers refusing identification with caution.
Motorists wishing to keep a personalised registration must apply to remove it before scrapping a vehicle, Wright cautioned, as recovering the registration may no longer be possible once the car is destroyed.

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